Friday, November 03, 2006

The Human Law of Reciprocity

"We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give." - Norman MacEwan

The human law of reciprocity ... if I give to you, you will want to give to me.

The foundation of a reciprocal referral partnership rests on the premise of givers gain. Notice that in this phrase, "give" comes BEFORE "gain". Not the other way around. When you give of yourself to someone else, it is noticed. Giving builds trust, credibility, affection, and loyalty. It demonstrates that you care and have interest in helping that person succeed. The process of giving opens up opportunities for both people involved. Giving creates a life.

I hear alot of people complaining that they don't get enough referrals. My first question is always, "What have you given to your referral network lately?" I'm talking about much more than just in the form of referrals! What are you doing to build the relationship? In business, the law of reciprocity goes much deeper than the referral. Often times, the referral is the end result of time spent giving to that person.

Think about what you do for your referral network. Do you give your time, interest and support whole-heartedly?

How have you given to others in your referral network?

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