It’s been said time and time again that we should give unconditionally. We should give because we want to and not because we want something in return. We should give without expecting anything in return.
I agree with this – mostly. It generally makes me happy to be a giver and not a receiver. It brings me as much joy to be able to give as it does when I receive. But I do not give without expecting anything in return. I have expectations when I give someone something – whether it’s a compliment, my time, or some tangible tool to help team members’ businesses.
I expect courtesy in return.
By definition, courtesy is a behavior marked by polished manners or respect for others; a respectful act or expression. Why wouldn’t someone expect that? Yet it amazes me how many don’t expect others to be courteous. Of course expecting one to be courteous doesn’t guarantee they will be, but to expect anything less is mediocrity at best.
I cringe whenever I hear “I don’t expect anything in return.” Really? Then that is likely exactly what you will get – nothing. We have no problem telling our gal pals to get rid of the boyfriend who we don’t think is worthy of her time and attention. We tell her that she deserves better; we tell her not to tolerate his disrespecting her. Great advice, yes?
Then why would you not expect the same respect from your team members? Don’t misunderstand – I am not saying you should demand courtesy. Demanding anything rarely works to anyone’s advantage. But to expect courtesy should be a given.
For example – I have heard on more than a few occasions how some Directors send surprise tokens of appreciation to team members who show initiative or who put in great efforts. It’s usually nothing large scale – maybe a pack of recruiting brochures or follow up post cards – just something small to acknowledge their recruit’s hard work. Rarely do these leaders even get a thank you.
Sure, they get acknowledgements and thank yous on occasion – some consultants do understand the meaning of courtesy, but that is more an exception, not the norm. In this regard, the givers don’t feel recipients need to kiss their shoes nor are they indebted to them for anything; that is in no way these leaders’ attitude. But how difficult is it to send a one word email “Thanks”?
Expect courtesy.
“No one is too big to be courteous, but some are too little” – Ralph Waldo Emerson
About the Author: Laurie Ayers is a Michigan work from home mom and a Superstar Director with Scentsy Wickless Candles. She enjoys helping men and women start and maintain a home based business in the US, Canada, Poland, Mexico, Australia, Puerto Rico, Germany, Ireland, UK, France, Austria and Spain. To download a FREE Start Up Guide which provides more details about how to start a home business as well as to learn about our compensation plan go to www.thrivingcandlebusiness.com/how-to-start-a-candle-business/ or for updates on Facebook LIKE www.facebook.com/ThrivingCandleBusiness and twitter @directsalesblog
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