Commitment – Give it to Get It

Summary:  You expect commitment from those around you. In order to get commitment, you need to give it to get it.

This is one of those words that depending on the context can draw diverse reactions from people.  For example in the dating context we think about commitment-phoebes or lacking commitment. In the family context is it about being there for your family and dedicating time to them. Well that’s all good and fine – so what about in the business sense.

I witness this commitment at times to be a one-way street.  You expect commitment from your clients, vendors and employees. However this needs to be earned on a regular basis. How do you earn it?

Great question!

At the most basic – we earn it by giving it. A strong believer in you reap what you sow. How can you show and give commitment?  Here are few ways to get started today.

Be on time. I know I really shouldn’t have to say this but if you schedule or agree to a meeting at a certain time be on time. No, you do not a “grace period” because you are the boss. You need to learn by example. Also, end your meetings on time as well.  This shows respect for their time and they will respect yours.

Stop the chit chat. Before you say “I don’t chit chat, I don’t have time for it”. Take a second and think about it. Do you decide to take precious meeting going off subject? When you stop to talk to a client, do you spend too much time on the weather? Or talking about the weekend?

Do what you say and say what you do. How many times have you told someone – I will send you that or will call to follow and don’t? Do you tell people you will provide them with training, information, ideas or guidance, and well…you forget.  We don’t do it on purpose (at least I hope not). So find a way to keep track of your obligations. When you do what you say remind them of the fact. Don’t be arrogant about it, a simple “As promised here is….”. Can’t tell you how many times I thought I follow up on a commitment to find out later that they didn’t tie the two together.

How do you show commitment to those around you?