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In Order to Get You Need to Give
Leadership / Advice
Reciprocity is the foundation of relationships and influence.
The Principle
Leadership influence is built on generosity, not authority. Give before you ask.
What Giving Looks Like
- Share context, knowledge, and connections freely.
- Help other teams even when it doesn't benefit you directly.
- Invest time in people's growth before needing their output.
- Give credit generously.
Why It Works
- People reciprocate naturally. Generosity builds goodwill.
- When you need help, people who you've helped will show up.
- Trust is built through consistent giving without keeping score.
The Trap
Transactional giving ("I helped you, now you owe me") destroys trust. Give genuinely. The return comes, but it shouldn't be the motivation.
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