This is the first article in a new series called “The Business Owner’s Bookshelf”, where we share our reviews and opinions about our top-rated books for businesses.
Today’s post was written by Paul Barnett, VP-COO of Network Depot.
Robyn, our Marketing Manager here at Network Depot, asked me to write about one of my favorite business books. Choosing one book was a lot more difficult than I thought it would be. I am an avid reader and have been through hundreds of business books over the years, which complicated my decision.
After spending a couple of hours stewing over this, I decided to write about “The Go-Giver” by Michael Mann, a parable about doing the right thing and business will follow. It’s the book I feel most closely encapsulates our corporate philosophy at Network Depot. It’s also a book a lot of businesses could learn from.
“The Go-Giver” is a story about an ambitious young sales guy named Joe. Joe is aggressive and hungry. He wants to rule the world and make tons of money. Joe quickly learns that something is wrong with his tactics. His aggressive pressing sales style is simply not working. Joe realizes he needs to change. Fortunately for Joe, he is introduced to Pindar who takes him under his wing.
Over the course of the following week, Pindar introduces Joe to his most valued business associates. In true “A Christmas Carol” fashion, each person shares an individual lesson with Joe about The Five Laws of Stratospheric Success.
The Five Laws Include:
The Law of Value: Your true worth is determined by the value you provide to your clients, not the payment you receive.
The Law of Compensation: Your income is determined by how many people you serve and how well you serve them.
The Law of Influence: The higher you place your clients best interests, the more influence you have.
The Law of Authenticity: The most valuable proposition you have to offer is an authentic and honest you.
The Law of Receptivity: You must be open to receiving in order to give.
Over the course of Joe’s week, he learns there is a lot more to selling than just selling. He discovers that you have to constantly be in service to your clients. If you provide them with more than they paid for, profits and loyalty will come as a result. It’s vital to always go above and beyond for them. He realizes the importance of being authentic and genuine when dealing with your clients. Delivering or exceeding your promises will endear a sense of loyalty and trust from your clients that cannot be bought.
Go-Giving at Network Depot
We strive to live a go-giving mentality at Network Depot. It’s a central part of our corporate philosophy to always do right by our clients. We constantly emphasize to our staff to be honest and deliver on promises. Don’t get me wrong, we are human and goof up from time-to-time. But, when we do, we always attempt to go out of our way to make things right.
“The Go-Giver” is not only a must read for every business owner and executive, it has an important message for every member of your company team. If you live its philosophy, it will strengthen both business and personal relationships which often leads to additional success.
Click here to access “The Go-Giver” on Amazon
Happy Reading!