Try not to become a man of success, but rather try to become a man of value.
-Albert Einstein
The Go Giver
At Mavidea, we pass out a book called The Go Giver by Mann and Burg. Every new employee gets a copy and in so may ways it guides Mavidea's culture. If you haven’t read it, I highly recommend it. It’s a short story of a young go getter who quickly learns it’s not about getting, it’s actually all about giving.
This young man learns five laws on his pilgrimage to success. I want to talk about the first law.
First Law: The Law of Value
The law of value: Your true worth is determined by how much more you give in value than you take in payment.
I was fortunate enough to have a brilliant professor during my MBA studies at Illinois State University’s College of Business. Dr. Taylor is a fantastic professor in many respects; he cares, works hard, loves what he does, but one thing stands out more than any other – he is well equipped. The man is brilliant. One of the many things he taught me was a simple concept of value that I have clasped on to and refuse to let leave. I have since spent a lot of time reflecting on it and wrestling with putting this idea to work.
It is a simple equation: Value = Get / Give Up
Value received is equal to what you get divided by what you give up to get it.
If we intend to provide value to others we would do well to consider and think deeply on this equation. How can we be more mindful of the value equations that we participate in every day? They are all around us. The question is are you leading them or are they happening on accident as if by default? What kind of business does your team deserve?
Leaders Know Value
They perceive it all around them and influence to serve those they lead. How can we manipulate this equation for good? Increasing what people get in their dealings with us while we hold constant what they give up or the other way around. Even increasing what is gained while decreasing what is given - that is often called a market disruption in economics. Everyone loves a good value.
Do you know the value equations on your team?
Between your company and its stakeholders. Be sure not to overlook the core value propositions at your company. Owners often gravitate to their customers, which is a wonderful thing. Nothing is more fundamental in business than being focused on your customer. But do not pass over your value propositions with your shareholders, directors, executives, employees, community, vendors and partners.
Are you providing an incredible value all around?
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