A note of caution when your business is to “improve” others’ business. You have to be worthy. 

This post is partly in response and because of my friend Collin’s post on JFDI - - a post on motivation, action, and entrepreneurship. This is a commentary on what it is like to take action in a certain market, not an actual comment on anyone’s worthiness. 

It’s a tough subject to write on because we’re all in it for different reasons. And because of different reasons. 

I will also add that I am in the business of improving others’ business. So often I have to let go of my own ‘pride’, and a big part of what I do is helping others let go of theirs. Soften them up, and allow them to be worked with or even directed. 

I’ve been seen as a dick for doing and saying things that I thought would ‘improve’ their exposure or business practice, and I can say this: 

1. Women are more receptive to comments or suggestions. 

2. Men are often silent angry ones. Perhaps, as Collin would say, too proud to take advice for what it is. Even wanting to be seen as proud.

3. Though I have been approached by both guy and girl friends for simple advice, women have been more willing to ask questions and ask for help. 

Also…the above things are possibly rather universal.

To help men out I have tried to ask them if I may comment on something. Males that are my friends or acquaintances also do not react well (if at all) to this. Radio silence often follows my question: “hey, can I give you some tips on XX?” … it’s tough to even approach the subject. You need to show people first that they’re already right or on the right track … but even saying that can be hurtful.

You may want to yell it from the rooftops: Wrong DOES exist!! But there are just several ways to work with people around the subject of wrong. It also depends on who you are approaching. ONE THING IS UNIVERSAL: it has to be their idea. 

Call yourself the best salesperson in the world; it’s still their idea when the buy point is reached. Trust me. 

What will often happen is the potential buyer is asking himself, does this person practice what they preach? If you’re selling “how to be a better XXX”, are you the best XXX? This attitude can be hard to avoid, but depending on the buyer it can be overlooked.

We probably won’t be sold a seminar on the Laws of Attraction when the seller is struggling in his own world. I can not be sold The Best Sales Seminar when the seller is out of options and lowering her price to compete. Importantly: people want to be given advice or buy advice from people that they can willingly admit are better than them. 

I will be sold those options when I need the help. When I have decided that I need that product.

So: be sure to shape [what you have to offer] like a product. Only when people are ready to buy will they take your product willingly - and from you as a trusted and notably worthy source.