During this Thanksgiving week, I thought I would pass along some “generosity tips” inspired by the writings of Keith Ferrazzi, noted networking specialist.
1. Feed people: There's no better way to be generous than by hosting a dinner party, and what do we have coming up but the ultimate dinner party? For most, Thanksgiving is a family event, but many --- for reasons of distance, or even family estrangement --- are alone on the holiday. Inviting a friend or colleague who has no one with which to share the holiday is a wonderful gesture. I have personally been on both sides (alone and as a host to others who are) and it truly imparts the holiday spirit.
2. Make introductions: I'm constantly introducing people from different parts of my life who might benefit from knowing each other on some level or another. It's a sort of ongoing puzzle, matching up the right people and the right opportunities. Don’t hoard your relationship equity.
3. Become a knowledge broker: Share information, by blog, by email, by mail, over lunch, or any way that you feel is appropriate. In particular, focus on sharing information that may help them solve problems, or deal with challenges they may have. Part of my day-to-day routine involves absorbing dozens of daily email feeds and reading online blogs, so when I discover something that I feel may be of help to others I do not hesitate to send it to them. It only takes a moment to do so via email, and may be the spark that ignites a solution to a current issue they may be struggling with. But keep it on a professional level…not many want to hear about your favorite chicken salad sandwich recipe (unless of course that is the primary connection between you!) And don’t overdo it…with all the internet babble out there, silence can sometimes be the most generous choice.
4. Tell a story: Sharing yourself thru your personal history is always a generous way to give something of yourself to a friend or colleague. Telling a real story about your past - with a beginning, middle, and end --- is even better. They'll be happy for the glimpse of what makes you tick (as long as its presented at the right time and place!).
5. Mentor and get mentored: When you can, look for opportunities to mentor others, sharing the benefit of your experience and sage advice. And don’t be hesitant to ask someone else to mentor you in an area you’d like to develop --- as long as you are ready to work your hardest to make them proud of their effort.
These are just a few of the things I have adopted to give the gift of generosity throughout the year. Consider adding a few to your own routine...
Bless you and yours during this holiday season.
Thanksgiving dinners take 18 hours to prepare. They are consumed in 12 minutes. Halftimes take 12 minutes. This is not coincidence." --- Erma Bombeck, columnist
As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them. --- John Fitzgerald Kennedy, American President