We’ve had a number of people write to us, interested in looking for a position with a company that better aligns with the Go-Giver philosophy than their current place of work, asking, “Do you have a list of Go-Giver-simpatico companies you might point me to, or a place to start in my search?” We thought we’d both share a few thoughts on that one:
BOB: While there are definitely many, many companies and businesses that embody the Go-Giver philosophy, there really is no specific list of Go-Giver-type companies we know of. (That is, other than the businesses and individuals whose profiles appear at TheGoGiverScrapbook.com.)
I think a question you might ask yourself, as you consider different companies to interview with, is what particular values they appear to uphold. For example: Does leadership place a focus on providing a benevolent environment for their employees? Do they focus on providing great value to their customers?
You can go through each of the Five Laws and ask yourself, does this company act in accordance with this one?
Don’t forget about the importance of that company’s sustained profitability, as well. Since, in a free-enterprise-based economy, a company can only profit continually by doing things right and pleasing its customers (and employees).
As you research these companies, speak with people who might be familiar with them, including both current and even former employees.
JOHN: You might also start by taking a look at well-known companies that seem to embody the values you want to be part of — even if they don’t offer the specific kinds of work or positions you’re looking for. For example, Zappos and Southwest Airlines are two companies well known for going out of their way to make sure their customers and employees are well taken care of and thoroughly enjoying themselves. (And it shows!)
Money magazine and others routinely run “best places to work for” lists that are worth exploring to add to that picture. WorldBlu.com runs an annual list of “most democratic workplaces.” There are others.
Create for yourself a portfolio of ideal companies that you can use as a sort of yardstick for how you’d like the company you work with to act.
Then, start looking around your local community and do the same thing: identify companies that seem to you to create the kind of atmosphere you resonate with. (Regardless of whether they’re in your particular line of work or not.)
Here in my town, there are a few restaurants and shops that we always love visiting, because it’s so obvious that people there are well taken care of. And there are those where that is clearly not the case.
In other words, develop your sense (Bob would say, your spidey sense) of when you are in the presence of a Go-Giver business, and when you’re not. As you do, you’ll start developing your own radar for the right place where you might find a home.
Please let us know what you find!
I love your book! Matter of fact, it’s mentioned in a blog post that talks about the top 7 books to read to help grow your business. It’s such a powerful book, and I love sharing it with people!
Are there companies out there that believe in your philosophy? I believe companies like Zappos and Norstrom’s may be the big companies. I know for me an my business, that’s the philosophies I want to live by.
Love the heart and purpose behind your book – I’m a big fan of giving great value!
I have loved your books and just discovered your blog- thank you!!! When I have a new team member- they get a copy of the Go-giver, then the Go-giver sells more- so again, thank you! Its a way of doing business that resonates with every value I hold dear and how I try to live my life so it’s great to know that I can (and should) do business in the same way!
I joined direct selling (party plan) when I was tired of building up someone elses business, someone who didnt share the values I did of being generous and it was always a struggle to be a giver even when my results were the top. I discovered scentsy products and fell in love, but what had me join the business was their philosphy on “Give more than you take”! and they lead by example in all they do for their consultants! (and the ommunity around them) Its honeslty been the happiest most rewarding career of my life. infact – In my original plan I would be retiring in the next 5 years or so, and certainly, I could do so financially- but I love the company so much- I will stay! and because the “job” is so flexible,, I could see sharing these products and this opportunity until I am 90! (God willing!)
Thanks again for your great books and your great blog- it uplifts me!
Wishing all who read it a job and a company to work for that encapulates this philosophy and has as much fun making a living as I do!