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Have you ever received a gift that the donor would have liked to receive themselves? Do you have books in your library that you have never read? I am sure that amongst the gifts you receive this Christmas there will be some that are exactly what you want and some that leave you wondering.

It is big jump to identify what would delight another. It is difficult to put yourself in another’s shoes and find a gift that will give them pleasure and show that you put significant thought into the choice. You really need to show that you have gone beyond self interest. I remember meeting a woman who managed a lingerie shop and she mentioned how many articles were returned after Christmas and Valentine’s Day.

Of course, it is easier to choose something using your own software. Consciously you will decide that this gift is just what this person wants. Unconsciously you may be buying yourself a present that the other person will simply put aside or want to exchange. The same principle applies to customers, staff, managers and family. If we remember to get into the other person’s mind and heart, we can find a gift that is truly for them. We have all heard the jokes about the husband buying his wife a shovel or the wife buying her husband a new microwave.

Here’s my challenge to you. When choosing gifts or cards this Christmas, pause.... And think about what this person would really like to receive as a gift from you. It may be a lot simpler than you think. A book voucher is a soft option. A better option is a gift that shows you have really put some thought into the choice. My wife recently had a significant birthday and I went shopping with one of my daughters to find the right gift. I was thinking about a gift associated with music. My daughter was thinking much further down the same road. She was looking for a music stand that matched our piano. We found a hand made stand that matches the piano exactly. She then hid it in the lounge and tied it with a large blue ribbon. Of course, she chose the shade of blue that is my wife’s favourite. My wife was truly delighted.

My second challenge is to really get into the spirit of Christmas this year. Be generous whenever you can. Don’t pass a busker without dropping in a coin. Let people into the flow of traffic. Wave when they let you in. Show your gratitude to the people at work that have helped you all year. Imagine the unsung work that your receptionist or support staff have done all year. Try tipping in restaurants. Send cards to people who have been instrumental in helping you to get where you are. I remember wondering whether to speak to a former teacher at a class reunion. I did speak to him and also thanked him for helping me to love language and reading. He died a year later. He had spent his life teaching English Literature and deserved a lot more than my simple thank you. Be kind more than right for this time of year. Give people the benefit of the doubt for this month. Assume that they are doing their best.

Thank you for being on my newsletter mailing list. I am enjoying being in touch with you. Please email back if you want to share your stories or just create a dialogue. This has been a good year for us all as we are still here. Some didn’t make it.

I am planning to do more conference and keynote speaking next year and could do with your help. If your organization uses speakers at meetings, conferences, training programs or special occasions or you know another organization that does, I would appreciate your passing on my name. I don’t use support staff and rely entirely on referrals from friends like you to create speaking opportunities. You can rely on me to do a very professional job and make you look good. Let me know how I can help you in return. I am also available for pro bono events where an organization does not have the resources to pay a professional speaker.

I am enjoying my life. I hope you are too. I sincerely hope you have a wonderful Christmas and choose gifts for customers, friends and family that bring joy and a confirmation that you are thoughtful and considerate. The thoughtful gift will cement relationships and build your business...and create a happier Australia.

Have a wonderful Christmas and let me know your success in finding the right gift.

Paddy Spruce CSP

Tel 03 9808 8990
Email – paddy@paddyspruce.com.au
www – paddyspruce.com.au
Snail – PO Box 111 Mt Waverley 3149