Its a simple phrase really, “How Can I Help?” . Do you use it often and do you really have the intention behind asking the question of others? I hear it sometimes and its used passively by those in customer service jobs. Rarely, it seems, do those that ask that question really mean it. On Veterans Day, I was reflecting upon service to others and that simple question. Have you ever asked that question? Sure you have. Did you mean it? When you asked the question and meant it, how did you feel when you were really able to help the other person. I bet it felt great. I am also certain that in some measure, the person who received your help felt great or relieved of their burden regardless of size or measurement.

We hear a similar mantra throughout Social Media; be of value to someone or create valuable content. As bloggers and social media enthusiasts, we all want to create that valuable post or the next application. I submit offering to help before others ask for it. I say so after I have listened to the audio book The Go Giver by Bob Burg and John David Mann.

The Go Giver

The Go-Giver tells the story of an ambitious young man named Joe who yearns for success. Joe is a true go-getter, though sometimes he feels as if the harder and faster he works, the further away his goals seem to be. And so, one day, desperate to land a key sale at the end of a bad quarter, he seeks advice from the enigmatic Pindar, a legendary consultant referred to by his many devotees simply as the Chairman.

Over the next week, Pindar introduces Joe to a series of “go-givers”: a restaurateur, a CEO, a financial adviser, a real-estate broker, and the “Connector”, who brought them all together. Pindar’s friends share with Joe the Five Laws of Stratospheric Success and teach him how to open himself up to the power of giving.

Joe learns that changing his focus from getting to giving – putting others’ interests first and continually adding value to their lives – ultimately leads to unexpected returns.

Imparted with wit and grace, The Go-Giver is a heartwarming and inspiring tale that brings new relevance to the old proverb “Give and you shall receive”.

I highly recommend picking up a copy of this fine book.