Why You Must Invest in the Success of Others

Do you know the aphorism “a rising tide lifts all boats”? It suggests that when you improve the overall economy, everyone that is part of it benefits.

Guess what? This also applies to your networks.

When those within your spheres of influence do well, it creates a flow of events—like a trickle-down effect—that inspires you to do well too, just by your association with them.

How does this work?

Let me give you an example.

The Background

A few years ago, my friend Hassan had a struggling business, and it was unfortunately on the verge of bankruptcy. However, I was fortunate enough to be in a position where I provided an opportunity to help him avoid it.

I wasn’t actually able to specifically give what he needed—but my connections could. When I reached out to those who I knew would offer him the necessary resources to push him forward, they were there for me. This is because I make it a habit to consistently foster my relationships; I can’t reiterate how important this is to do! And how significant it is to build robust networks of individuals you can count on.

Together, we got him on his feet again and established the foundation for what turned into an extremely successful and lucrative company. And it continues to thrive today!

The Result

Hassan has not only built an amazing business but has gone on to become a pillar in his community. He’s now in a position where he donates a significant amount of money to those in need, feeds a lot of people that are underprivileged, and has turned the neighborhood around where his company resides.

As I was assisting him, I had no ulterior motive other than to see a great guy succeed. He was hard-working and had a great idea. Luckily, I was able to offer my time, and the right value through my networks which helped lead him to success. And because of the investment I made to help Hassan, and just how “a rising tide lifts all boats”, I have benefited from his success in countless ways including:

• Financial gain = he lent me money to start a company
• Business rewards = he introduced me to multiple people who turned into worthy clients
• Personal rewards = I was able to see my friend and a valuable person within my networks prosper and shine, this is most important to me!

I like to call this selfless benevolence.

I’m not sharing this story to be applauded, but rather to encourage you to support those within your networks who need it. Maybe you’re too busy or don’t have the time to do so. But there really is no excuse not to do it! Even just five minutes a day can make all the difference.

Why Invest in Others

When you’re fortunate enough to leverage what you have and aid in the success of others, you shouldn’t even think twice about it. Not only is this a sign of being a good person and a true friend, but you’ll most likely end up benefiting from it as well, in more ways than one.

“Life isn’t about getting and having, it’s about giving and being.”

Kevin Kruse, NY Times Bestselling Author, entrepreneur & keynote speaker

But you shouldn’t look at situations and think about what you can receive from it. Being generous to others is what networking is all about. Sometimes it doesn’t take a lot to do the right thing. And remember, people never forget those who have helped them. When you need something down the road your connections will be inclined to assist you if you’ve done the same for them.

Of course, you don’t invest your time and effort in others just for the benefits—you should WANT to help those in your networks.

Who Have YOU Helped?

I’m fortunate enough to have quite a few stories like that of Hassan, and I bet if you think about it, you do too. Talk to any entrepreneur and they will most likely tell you someone other than just themselves was instrumental in their success. Speak to anyone that has achieved any level of excellence and they will inform you where someone went a “little out of their way,” and this assistance made all the difference.

Now think about it…who can YOU help today?

Become a NetWorkWise Certified Professional

Learn the right way to invest in the success of others within your networks by enrolling in our certification program! Through self-paced micro-courses, downloadable resources, quiz questions and action steps, you gain an understanding of the right way to cultivate and nurture connections. Once complete, you receive credentials validating you as an expert in creating world-class relationships. I encourage you to sign up day and become a NetWorkWise Certified Professional!