How to Build a Reputation That Lasts: Adding Value Over Seeking Approval

Bring value and the results will come...

Focus on what provides value to others, not what impresses others.

Other people spend about as much time thinking about your lifestyle and accomplishments as you spend thinking about their lifestyle and accomplishments. Which is to say, not much time at all.

The things we do to impress others rarely impress them for longer than five minutes. But the things we do to provide value for others can last a lifetime. In the long run, one of the most impressive things you can do is provide exceptional value. - James Clear

Whether you realize it or not, everything in life is sales.

No, this doesn’t mean you need to be shoving products down someone’s throat or the moron who posts on LinkedIn, “here is what the death of a family member taught me about B2B sales…”

You need to focus on providing value, rather than trying to impress others.

Every interaction in the real world is an opportunity to build connections and perceptions of how others view you.

Your relationships, your career, your community — you are selling yourself.

Why should these people want to hire you, date you, or even hang around with you?

Everyone, even introverts, should be developing skills to communicate effectively, connect, and bring value to people.

It’s not just about being your own promoter. You need to show authentic interest and the ability to identify pain points and see if you can offer solutions.

People don’t care what you know, until they know that you care.

Become the first person people think of when they need a problem solved. You then create momentum, and typically by word of mouth, build a good reputation.

Your long-term success can be boiled down to — building trust, being consistent, and having good intentions.

You might be able to experience success without having good intentions or by pure luck.

But you won’t be around for long.

People have a great nose for sniffing out bullshit and those that are solely self-interested or insincere.

Become comfortable giving without expecting.

"Ideas that are hoarded help no one. Success follows generosity." James Clear

I bet a lot of us have received a LinkedIn request from a stranger only to be messaged immediately with a sales pitch or they are looking for something.

Hell, I even tried this to reach prospects. But it didn’t feel right to me, so I quickly abandoned it.

Instead, I know am obsessed with helping as many people as I can.

I want to become someone who consistently has good energy, a good attitude, a willingness to be a team player, and someone who is easy to work with.

To be of service, to listen and understand pain points, so then I can provide solutions.

When you bring significant value, you are wanted.

Not to mention that often times when you feel helpless or overwhelmed with challenges, if you can find ways to help others, you feel empowered and gain energy.

Success will come. There is so much opportunity.

But far too many people are focused solely on themselves and their needs.

Forget about the outcome and focus on what precedes it, which is the process itself.

Be genuine and authentic.

Send that email; check-in on people even if you think it’s too much; offer help with no strings attached.

You may be ignored, but if you stay consistent, unexpected rewards and open doors are right around the corner.

Disclosure: This material is for general information only and is not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual.