Several weeks ago, all on the same day, three different people suggested I read The Go-Giver by Bob Burg and John David Mann. Others have told me that - at least a dozen others - but this particular day, I heard it three times.
I took it as a sign, fired up the Kindle and forked over the $18.99 for immediate upload to my digital reader. Since I was traveling, I was able to dive right in to find out what all the fuss was about.
Wow.
These guys have been stealing my stuff. Or, maybe I've been stealing theirs. Or maybe (she says modestly) Great Minds Just Think Alike. But for those who have suggested I write a Sell with Soul for the general public; well, it's already been done by Mr. Burg and Mr. Mann. Exceptionally well, I might add, and (not without a trace of envy), a wee bit more successfully!
Seriously, if you enjoyed Sell with Soul, you will LOVE The Go-Giver. Or, conversely, if you've already read and enjoyed The Go-Giver, you will love Sell with Soul!
I'm planning a little series on how to apply Go-Giver principles to a real estate career. If you haven't read it yet, you really oughta (okay, now I'm just being bossy) - here's the link to it on Amazon.com:
The Go-Giver: A Little Story About a Powerful Business Idea
And while you're at it, you might want to pick up the companion book:
Seriously, it's good stuff. Career-changing stuff. Which makes it life-changing stuff...
Okay, okay, will add it to the last of things to do -- and will probably order it and put it in the stack of other books I intend to read. LOL Seriously, sounds like a winner and something I definitely want to read. Thanks!
Thanks for the suggestion. It sounds like it is all about giving and not selling which works in my book. Now, if my Kindle has arrived....
I think that ALL SALES PROFESSION must read Go Givers Sell More. I like that version better but both are awesome!
I just went and ordered both Go Givers, Who Moved My Cheese, and Roberts Rules of Order. Roberts wasn't in your post but man oh man does it make attending and running meetings powerful!
Susan - you'll love it. Because, you'll say "Well, shoot, I already DO this stuff!"
Loreena - I agree - The "Sell More" book has more practical application. My Kindle version has bookmarks all over it!
Emily - You're gonna LOOOOOVE your Kindle!!! And yeah, the book(s) give you "permission" to freely give without expectation of receiving which is remarkably freeing...
Jennifer - I will check this out. Although I do get almost all of my books from the library, espcecially since my wife is the librarian.
Never even heard of it but now that you're suggesting it, we'll definitely check it out, I checked out the link and it's totally worth the $18+ cost. Just curious, what was the highlight of the book for you?
Chris & Maria - what a great question. I'll give that some thought. Mostly, I believe it was a validation of what I've been preaching - that all the Old School prospecting and sales techniques aren't relevant in today's world... if they ever were. That it's okay to trust your clients and prospects and to truly do what's best for them, even if doing the right thing "costs" you a paycheck. That by doing the right thing, you will very likely be rewarded in ways you didn't imagine. Not from a karmic sense or Law of Attraction sense really, but just because people will respond to you more positively if you aren't obviously always looking out for #1. Stuff like that.
Mike - the library is good!!
JA - Thanks for the recommendations although my pace has slowed, there are 2 others which are ahead of these. You're bookmarked so I can keep them all in their places.
JA - I just saw this book on a desk yesterday... it drew me in for some reason! Now, you are blogging about it! Crazy ... I'll add it to my "must read" list! - Thanks you've just confirmed it for me!
Heading to the bookstore later today. I'm not in the Kindle Club yet...
I've read it and love it too! I can't wait for your mini series, I know you'll make it really great.
Christine - I'm so glad you liked it! Stay tuned for more...
Shelley - It took me awhile to buy into the idea of a Kindle, but now I love it! Can't imagine life before it! Okay, that's melodramatic, but I do really really like it.
Kelly - There you go! That's pretty much how it happened for me, too.
Kevin - Well, far be it from me to mess with your system ;-]
By the way, I've been communicating with Mr. Burg and he definitely practices what he preaches...
I read the Go Giver and loved it! Started reading the first page on Saturday morning and didn't put it down until I finished it. It's that good. I have recommended it to several of my fellow agents who "sell with soul" (whether they know it or not). I stumbled upon an awesome real estate website the other day that inspired me. You might want to check it out. LiveGoodBeHappy.com.
I really value your books and his. Lately though I've been approached by people trying to give me something and then the sales hook comes. I think they're trying but missing the point.
Connie -that's exactly right. And it's made us a suspicious bunch. If someone is nice to us, we're almost waiting for the catch... and that's so uncomfortable! I like what they say in the Go-Givers Sell More book about how to deliver the perfect sales pitch: Don't.
Sandy - Awesome! And I'll check it out.
I have been in real estate sales management and personal sales since 1988. I have an extensive collection of sale books ranging from Og Mandino to Jeffery Gitomer. The "Go Givers Sell More" is the BEST sales/life book I have ever read.
If not for Jennifer's recomendation, I would not know about them. Everybody in sales should read both books! Thanks again Jennifer
Jennifer-I loved the book "Go Givers Sell More"!!! Loreena Yeo recomended it to me and I am so grateful.
I wish every salesperson would read this book and make it their Mantra-the world would be a better place. I have recommended it to several of my fellow Title salespeople and Realtors. Great Read!
Thanks, Jennifer. It's on it's way!
OK, on your advice, I just ordered both books. Can't wait to read them :)!
Can't wait to read more, Jennifer!
Hi Jennifer, just returning home and checking the computer, I saw your article and wanted to say thank you, and let you know how very honored I am (and I know John will be when he sees it, as well) for your very kind words about our books. It's a great thrill to know that you found value in themand that you would think enough of them to share on your blog. I've been hearing terrific things about you and know that your teachings are touching the lives of a LOT of people. Also, if I may, thank you to those who have responded to your post and commented about the books, as well. Please know that both John and I take your comments very seriously, and we never take them for granted. Thank you again! - Bob
My library has them - worth checking out the "free" option first! I just placed a hold and should have them tomorrow.
What a lot of response Jennifer.
Interesting title.
Will put it into the memory cue of books to read
Thanks
PHil
Hi Jennifer!
What Bob said. Ditto. I second that emotion!
Seriously, what a sweet post: "career-changing ... life-changing stuff" -- oh my. Many thanks!
— John
The authors themselves...wow! Talk about impressing vs touching. Way to go, JA!! :)
I have't heard about this one, but if you are recommending it I know I'll enjoy it. Putting it on my shopping list......
I've read The Go Giver, and Selling with Soul. Working on your second book. Really in line with my heart and head.
Thank you so much for posting this advice. I just finished reading the Go-Giver and want to recommend it to everyone. It's fast reading and very powerful in it's simplicity.