Make me feel important
Posted on | October 19, 2009 | 2 Comments
I first heard this phrase back in 1989 from Zig Ziglar at a seminar in Houston. He was describing how we should imagine a sign on the chest of every person with whom we come in contact that says, “Make me feel important.” He went on to say that we should do this because, most importantly, it is the right thing to do, but also because by doing so you will win more business than you can handle. Over the years, I have tried to take this concept to heart and do my best to apply it to my business as well as my personal life. Overall, I thought I’d done okay with it until a few weeks back, when I received a clear reminder of how much better I can be at “making people feel important.”
It was noon and I had just finished teaching a staff class. Out of the corner of my eye I spotted him. It had been years, but I remembered him instantly. He and his brother used to train with me when they were kids. I raced out to the lobby to greet him and we had a wonderful reunion. We talked about old times, his family and finally, the amazing success his brother became. You see, after training with me, his brother went on to become an MMA world champion and one of the most recognized fighters in the sport.
After a nice chat, we said our goodbyes and he was on his way. I know he enjoyed our visit and went away feeling appreciated and maybe even “important” because I went out of my way to make him feel so.
Then it hit me, although I’d like to think I greet all former students the same way, the truth is I don’t. Sure, I’m polite. I engage them in conversation, but sometimes I’m not over the top it’s-so-great-to-see-you friendly. Although I’m hesitant to admit it, the fact of the matter is that I was extra friendly and respectful to this fellow because his brother is famous. It didn’t hit me until later on that day, and when it did, I was a bit embarrassed with myself. It was a great reminder to me of how we should treat the people who cross our path every day.
Zig, I’m recommitting to you (and anyone else listening) that I will do my best to treat the people in my life like I did the young man in the lobby a few weeks back. Anyone care to join me?
Comments
2 Responses to “Make me feel important”
Leave a Reply
About Dave Kovar
Mr. Kovar has been teaching Martial Arts professionally since 1978. Dave is a multi-style Black Belt who has been committed to ever-improving his Martial Arts skills. He updates this blog to provide tips and insights to martial arts instructors around the country. To learn more, click here.
Where Success Stories Begin
Dave Kovar In Action
- News10 - 50 Rounds to Celebrate 50th Birthday
- KCRA News - Basic Self-Defense Strategies
- Jujitsu Black Belt Test
- CNBC - Child Safety Report
RSS
October 27th, 2009 @ 7:55 am
hi dave,
that’s powerful man. i totally agree. the hard part is definitely doing it. i think waking up with that mentality of actively thinking of how to make others feel welcome and appreciated is hugely important. Thanks Dave. keep up the good work on the blog.
October 27th, 2009 @ 7:17 pm
Yes sir,
I have to sometimes be reminded to treat the most important people in our lives with the “make me feel important” sign. It is too easy to take people we love for granted. Try to listen to people as if you were not listening with your ears, but with your heart. That will make a difference!
God Bless You Sir! Your friend,
Randy Edwards