I have a belief that, the more you give, the more you get. So I have no problem sitting down with somebody who is authentically seeking help and giving them a free education, even if there is really no chance that they are going to reciprocate. Our initial mentor in this business taught us this.
When we first started the company in 2001, a friend recommended him as somebody we really needed to talk to, even though we were theoretically a competitor of his. He was light years ahead of us, but we were still a competitor. Joe happened to be in Boston on business, so he made the call and said, “I’d really like to pick your brain.” He said, “Come on up.” It was about a $120 cab ride to get there. I remember Joe called me and said this is going to cost about $240 round trip, but I can’t get to a car, but I think it’s worth it. So we did it. At that time, $240 was a huge deal. But Joe spent a couple of hours with him. He gave us sample proposals, contracts, outlines and spreadsheets – everything we needed. The only thing he asked in reciprocation was, “If you are ever in a position to do this for somebody who is starting out in business, do it.”
So I will always take those meetings, even if I know that there is not going to be a reciprocation.
Thanks for re-telling a great story J… this really does put into perspective the whole notion of selflessness.
Good stuff!
thanks for sharing. Its a story more execs should read & take note! Not only is this good for karma but more importantly I’d goes to show how sometimes we place our own assumptions in advance about possible outcomes of meetings. I’m in startup mode now trying to build our business and this some good food for the soul. Obviously time is precious and how we manage it can have a direct impact to success BUT assumptions can be more damaging. I mean wow, he gave u just about everything. Looking back now how much value do you think the materials he gave was worth, way more than the $240 bucks I imagine! Great story, for others that are on their journey a great read I can recommend is the Art of the Start by Guy Kawaski
It is very helpful to keep this abundant mindset — especially when we are busy and there is a tendancy to think, “I’ll get to this when I have time.” But that time might never come.
Hi
It’s uncommonly, very interesting thoughts