Investing in PEOPLE

It's About The People!
the people
Last week, I attended a Real Estate Investment Seminar where I was able to meet and speak with Ed Mercer. Ed Mercer is a philanthropist, humanitarian, billionaire and was recently inducted into the Environmental Hall of Fame for his activism in Costa Rica. I could share more insightful information about Mr. Mercer's accomplishments, but instead I want to share his words of advice he gave to me. As I spoke with Ed about his level of success he put his hand on my shoulder and just said, "It's all about the people".

Here are a few tips of advice that we could all implement immediately to have a positive impact on the people we meet.

Call/Reply when you say you will

The logical thinking is: if money is made in the follow up, then you must maintain a consistent level of communication with those you encounter. It is essential to maintain all levels of professionalism. Remember that people who say they will follow-up and don't, will always have excuses and often end up looking less credible. This is very obvious within relationships, and gentlemen if you're in a relationship you know exactly what I am talking about. Just call when you say you will.

Help refer other people business

Some one once told me that you can help the most when you have nothing but yourself to offer. If you are able to put people together and they are able to do business, believe that they will do it for you.

Service with a smile

The quality of service you render, and the attitude with which you render that service will determine how others will respond to your business. If you treat a client well and you do a good job, they will refer you to their close friends and family. CAUTION: If you neglect a client or have a negative affect on them, they will tell everyone they know! You've been warned!

Be on time

This is a killer for many people so don't feel too guilty. Although being late or on time won't make or break your deal, doing so on a constant basis will hurt you. Once it is a habit, others will become frustrated with your lack of respect for their time.

Give back

Whether it is in the form of monetary value, time, or energy, giving will come back to you when you are in need. Some of the most successful businessmen of all time have set up organizations and charities to give back to help the common good. Almost simultaneously, when you give, you receive 10 fold.