If you’re in Kansas City, and you’ve eaten at Gates, you’ve heard that phrase. It’s part of their brand. You walk in the door and hear the refrain “Hi – May I Help You” over and over. It’s not “Hello, may I be of service” or “Hi, what can I get you”. Its ALWAYS say “Hi – May I Help You”. It’s on their logo. It’s part of their brand.
So I’m heading to the Kansas City Online Community June networking event tonight at M&S Grill. My goal is meet at least 5 new people and find out how I can help them. Simple. To the point. Find 5 people and ask “Hi, May I Help You”. Ok, maybe I won’t use those exact words, but I want to go and see who I can help.
Earlier this year I had a Give First post, looking back at it I even references Gates. Its worth repeating – if you want to build a good relationship with ANYONE look for ways to help them. Not because they’ll “owe you one”, but because its the right thing to do. It’s also a way to stand out from the crowd. “The crowd” is mostly interested in themselves and advancing their lot in life. They don’t really care about helping anyone other than themselves. They might help someone else, but they’re looking for a returned favor. Many times they’re disappointed when that favor never materialized and all of a sudden they’re angry & bitter.
Give unselfishly. Be sincere in your desire to help. People will remember that. They will want to help you. Not out of obligation, but out of respect. They’ll be the people you can call at 4am when you have a flat tire. They’ll be the people that are constantly singing your praises to anyone within earshot. Not because they HAVE to, but because they WANT to.
Giving yourself away will make you feel better. Rather than worrying about your problems, you’re helping someone else solve their problem. Whether you’ve been in a job for a decade or engaged in a job search for the past 10 months, if you find a way to help others you’re going to ultimately be helping yourself.
If you wish to experience peace, provide peace for another – The Dalai Lama