What can you give away? In tricky economic times like these, we are probably focusing much more on "getting" (for example, more work, enough income to cover bills, and appointments with potential clients) than "giving." I submit to you, however, that the more we give and the more giving we become, the more abundance will flow back to us.

Develop an attitude of giving ideas and information when asked. I know people who have good ideas, but won't tell anyone, because they are afraid someone may steal an idea. And someone may, but by hoarding what we know, think or imagine will hurt us in the long run. When we are known to be willing to share information with others in an open and giving way, our name will be mentioned often. People will ask us for "how tos." When someone needs to hire a person for a special job, we will often be recommended.

As Zig Ziglar -- not only one of the most successful speakers in the country, but also one of the most caring, down-to-earth and giving people I have ever met -- says, "You can get everything in life you want if you help enough other people get what they want." I know this works. When someone calls me with a question -- even when I am swamped with work and short on time -- I make myself slow down and take the time to answer it. I would want others to treat me that way, and people do remember how they are treated.

So what else can I give? I don't have a lot of extra money lying around. I am not suggesting that we go into debt. My favorite marketing guru, Robert Middleton, always asks what we can freely give of value to our clients and/or prospective clients. One of his ideas is that we offer to speak for free to various groups. It might be a luncheon meeting, a brown bag lunch. He offers workshops, and once people have attended these valuable sessions they hurry to buy his marketing manual and/or tapes.

I have learned from Robert to write free articles for trade magazines and websites, always getting a byline with contact information. Robert sends out a weekly newsletter free that is so loaded with valuable content that I read every word. I started by sending for his free marketing plan, then purchased his manual, then some of his excellent tapes, then a tele-seminar. And, because he is so giving of his time and talent, I mention him to everyone who is seeking marketing advice.

Or stop and consider your product Is there something related you can give away? Maybe you can offer an hour of consultation. How about, if you are a caterer, a sample of appetizer choices or pastries? Maybe you are a seamstress. How about a 10% discount on the first tailoring job? People love getting discounts, free gifts and coupons. How can you use this to your advantage? You will most likely come up with a plethora of ideas.

Once you start giving, you will discover how much fun it is. And then you'll find how lucrative it will become. I am in no way suggesting that we start giving just to get, but the amazing truth is that when we develop the habit and mindset of giving, the more flows back to us and our businesses automatically.