Your Brain Is Worth More Than Coffee

Everyone knows you are a rockstar at what you do. The proof is in the coffee cup. And if you don’t like coffee, it’s whatever bait that is used to get your undivided attention and chatting from the space of your inner genius.  The bait could be, hey let’s hang out, catch up, or have lunch “on me”. Two lattes or a second plate of fresh sweet rolls later, you find yourself engaged in a project planning session or one on one coaching.

KNOW YOUR WORTH

If you’re just starting out, it can be hard not to want to share your expertise with everyone. Your passion is on fire and it energizes you to act it out. Even so, you must be very mindful of how much you are giving away and the value of your time. If you are in the service industry, every minute you are servicing should equate to a dollar value. For example, attorneys and life coaches charge by the minute or 15 minutes. One hour could cost them $300 - $1,000. That’s $5-$16.67 per minute! That coffee an attorney just sipped on for an hour and a half likely cost them $450 - $1,000.00.  Was it worth it?

WHEN IT IS OKAY

Don’t be selfish and totally self-seeking. Help people for free. Wait. What? Yes, for free but not everyone. There doesn't always need to be an exchange of money. Sometimes, there are people who truly need your help. Sometimes, you have time to spare and so why not?  Give without expectations. Or perhaps try this approach. If making a sale doesn't seem appropriate, rather than win-win, try give-give. Best scenario is when you barter and exchange services with someone you know, like, and trust. While it’s more noble to give than to receive, it sure is cool when you get a return on your investment. Simply say, “sure I can help you with that. Do you think you have time to help me with [fill in the blank]?” If they say no, do not be classless and retract your yes. Maybe they really don’t have time. Or, maybe you’ve identified yourself a taker. Either way, now you know.

WHEN IT’S NOT OKAY

You have to your use good judgement here and know when you’re being taken advantage of. Some people are just takers. They want everyone to help them but wouldn’t think to help another. Then there are those who are unintentionally disrespectful. Are you offering a service or product that, if you weren’t around they’d happily and freely pay someone else for? Sometimes people get so caught up in familiarity, seeing only the personal part of you, that they don’t respect the professional on the inside.

HOW TO SAY NO

There are times when you are bursting on the inside with a big fat N-O or, gosh I really don’t have time for this. Here are a few ways to politely say no when offering product/services doesn’t seem appealing to you or just do not have capacity. Kindly try these phrases.

• I wish I could help, but now’s not a good time for me.

• Hey, I can’t right now but here is someone who can.

• I’m honored that you’d reach out but I am unable to help at this time.

• That sounds challenging. But I’m sure you’ll find tons of resources online that will help you.

WHEN TO OFFER SERVICES

You have to use your time wisely. Whether you are just starting out or in business for some years now, you must have a certain number of hours a day set aside for paying customers (booked or not), business building, and a target set for pro bono work. Remember, giving is good but you must also respect your expertise. Every interaction off your books should not be a charity case. Really think about whether or not this person just needs a boost or if you foresee them coming back for more, then more, and more again. If the answer is yes and know that they can afford it, try these phrases.

• I’d love to help you with this. What do you think about the idea of doing business with me?

• You should check out my website. I have products/services that you should invest in.

• I have all of this on my website. I’ll give you my discount code for family and friends.

• I give 20% off for family and friends. Is that something you can afford?                

Once you learn how to identify which opportunities to engage in or run from, it may take some time verbalizing the phrases shared above. If you know you are being baited in or have already taken your first sip, you have three choices. Give at no cost to them realizing it is costing you, politely say no without saying no, or offer your product/services for a fee.