The Principle Of Reciprocity

There are many facets to a leaders role. One important facet is giving of yourself to those around you.

Did you know you cannot out-give? If you give to someone, they will almost always want to give more back. This is the Principle of Reciprocity.

When you look out for your employees and co-workers, even your friends and family, they will want to return the favor. Giving is infectious.

The only drawback is the motivation for giving. If you give out of selfish ambition, then guess what? You may get something back, but it will never be what you hoped for or as much as you hoped it to be. And, when you do not get anything back, you’ve only done harm to yourself because you are the one left feeling “hacked-off”.

Don’t give in order to get.

When you give, not expecting a return, the reciprocal giving is that much sweeter. And, when you give, not expecting a return, your feelings will not have been hurt if you receive nothing in return.

Take a look around your workplace, your personal networks, your clients, your friends and family — who can you give to?