You Make a Difference
Posted on January 12, 2010 in Featured-writers
by Brian Parsley
How would you define making a difference? Helping the homeless? Paying it forward? How about a random act of kindness? I think those examples are certainly worthy of the definition. But, what does it mean to you?
To me, it’s not about becoming a hero or performing a huge act of kindness. It’s a combination of little things: Opening the door for someone when they were not expecting it or calling a customer to check on them when they said they didn’t “feel well,” What about when you smile at someone when you get the sense they are not having a great day?
There are so many ways you can make a difference, and all you have to do is look for your opportunity. This is NOT a “work” thing; rather, it’s a “life” thing you can focus on.
If a kid is learning how to ride a bike and they fall off, do you scream at them? Would you tell them how stupid they are? Would you tell them riding a bicycle is so easy? You would never do that. Instead, you would encourage them. Give them kindness and hope. Let them know everyone who rides a bicycle has gone through the same experience. That encouragement makes the difference to that child. As adults, we forget we all still need encouragement from others. The two biggest fears people have are “what if I fail?” and “what if I am not good enough?” When you encourage others, it sets a ball in motion to help them succeed.
What kind of an example do you set? The fact that you’ve invested your time in this course means that you want to improve. But, how are you setting examples for others? Do you tell people they need to be friendly but then turn around and yell at someone when they aren’t doing what you say? Your actions will not only make a difference (positive or negative—it’s up to you), but your actions also build your reputation.
Do you react before you think? Most people take actions without thinking them through. Emotions are powerful and, sometimes, they can get us into trouble. Have you ever sent an e-mail to someone without thinking it through—reacting based on your emotions—and regretted it the next day? We all have. If you want to make a difference in others, try thinking about their position first (even when the other person seems to be out of line). Think about what you say or write and how it can make a difference in a positive way. How can you show kindness?
Here’s an example. My friend, Scott, recently encountered the rudest person I have ever seen. This woman was so mean that I was actually a little scared. Even though she was unfriendly, rude, and unapproachable, Scott wasn’t. He was so nice (and not the fake nice either). He was genuinely nice. He was kind. He was encouraging to her. I asked him if he was frustrated by her behavior. What was his response? “She needs more love, Brian.” “What?” I was thinking she needs a boot out the door. Scott then said, “If you want to make a difference in others, give them love.” (Here’s a Human Resources disclaimer: Love doesn’t mean hugs.) Love is about treating everyone like you treat your loved ones. Love isn’t a corporate thing, but it’s the most basic thing we all crave.
Here’s the most important takeaway - YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE; you WILL make a difference. Each positive action you take (no matter how small or insignificant you think they may be) will make an impact on your customers, your company, your friends, and yourself.
Making a difference is all about doing the right thing for others. It sounds simple, but it’s true. It’s about holding yourself personally responsible whether it’s for a customer’s problem they’ve come to you for help with or if you’re taking personal responsibility for actions you’ve taken. Sometimes, taking ownership may not be the easiest path, but it’s the right thing to do.
You can make a difference, but it’s up to you to commit if you’re willing to take the time and make the effort to do so. I will tell you that the rewards are worth it. When you make a conscious effort to do the right thing, you’ll make a difference and that’s what life is all about—leaving a positive impression on others and creating memorable experiences.
Copyright © 2009-2010 WeSkill LLC. All rights reserved.
Brian Parsley is a Certified Professional Behavior Analyst who speaks to companies on customer care, sales and employee retention. Pulling from his experience as Chairman of a national online recruitment site; his extensive background in the temporary staffing business; and as COO of one of the largest training and development companies in the US. Brian knows what it takes to create environments that increase revenue while keeping employees and customers loyal.
Brian's seminars provide real-world insights into the connection between employee behavior and bottom-line results. He travels the world educating managers and employees on the importance of sales, customer loyalty, and employee retention - and how it affects their organizations. Brian's clients include Assisted Living Concepts, Senior Home Care, CDPHP, Prinstripe, Glaxo Smith Kline, RS Medical, BioMet and many more.
He along with other partners and global leaders have developed online customer care training located at WeSkill. Brian's passion for serving is evident in all aspects of his life. He spent over six years volunteering as an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) in Charlotte, North Carolina. Brian was also recently named one of Charlotte, North Carolina's Top 40 Executives under 40 years old.
To see more of Brian Parsley and WeSkill go to www.weskill.com or www.youtube.com/weskillyou
Get In Touch
Call us at 888-897-9136 about support, assistance, service issues or any other questions. Or...
Contact Us Online