Several years ago, I read a great book entitled Love is the Killer App – How to Win Business and Influence Friends by author and business expert Tim Sanders. The premise is that you gain more by giving away… giving away your knowledge, your networks, your compassion… He goes on to make up some great words like “lovecat,” which he defines as nice, smart people who succeed in business and in life. Sanders argues that “lovecats” are better people and better employees because they’re constantly giving. And that’s a lot like what Christ did for us. He gave us his wisdom, his help and, ultimately, his life.
Sometimes in the ministry-business world – if we’re not careful – we can see ourselves as just competitors… with other churches, other non-profits or other Christian businesses.
But what about good friends?
It seems that only the church we serve, the camp where we work or the business that pays our salary care anything about the competition. The person shopping around is simply looking for what works best for him and his ministry.
If you want to succeed, I truly believe you must see your “competition” as friends. And don’t stop there. Make them your friends. Be on a first-name basis. Add their number to your speed dial. And give away … your knowledge, your networks…
Your business or church wins when the person shopping around sees that you care more about connecting with others, as opposed to knocking out the competition.
Do you know the other kids’ ministers at churches near you? Have them on speed dial? Had lunch with them lately?
Anyone know Reggie Joiner? I am trying to get a meeting with him.