Givers, Takers, and Other Manner of Man and Beast

Schnorrer has always been one of my favorite Yiddish words.

But people who fit the description are among my least favorite business types.  I met Rob Levin of the New York Enterprise Report early on in my entrepreneurial career, and he taught me the skill of frequently asking other business owners the simple question, "How can I help you?"  If you ask the right people that question, and are able to deliver on their requests (which are usually modest and do-able), you will establish a long-term relationship, comprised of honesty, trust, and thankfulness.  If you look up "not a schnorrer" in the dictionary, Rob's picture will be there, along with several other colleagues and friends I've known through the year.  We will get through this tough time together.

Asking for help isn't always easy.  I found this blog post from Dr. Debabout how to do it.  Now I normally wouldn't trust a health professional named "Dr. Deb," but she's been on the Tyra Banks show, so she must know her stuff.

And, if Dr. Deb is a bit too upbeat or Pop Psych for you, here's a good article about asking for help in business. 

There is, however, a difference between asking for help and repeatedly insisting you get free stuff, discounts on services, introductions to sales leads, and hours and hours of time and assistance.

If, on the other hand, you find yourself a schnorrer-magnet, here are some effective ways to say "no."

And remember, business is business.  And those folks who will survive and thrive during these dark times are those who know how to give and take (in equal measures), refer great opportunities to each other, say "no" at times (the right way), and most important, do not demand that every good deed be paid back immediately.  In other words, schnorrers be damned!

Other useful Yiddish terms

Who else is appearing on Tyra?

A link to Rob's website (because he is not a schnorrer and he didn't ask me for it!)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Comments

[Rob Levin]

My mother will be so proud! Seriously, if you want to know how to first give and then get, see what the pros have to say at our next event: "Turn Your Network into Net Worth (the networking event of the spring!). Where 3 really successful business owners will tell you how they "gave there way to the top". www.nyreport.com/networth