Nobody wants to buy the cow when you give away the milk for free
Do you have slutty tendencies? I think many of us have been there at one point in our business (or perhaps even personal) lives. Being a business slut is giving your time, money, effort, services, etc. away- over and over again- for free or at a significant amount less that it’s worth because you don’t value yourself and what you bring to the table.
How many times have you discounted what you do and offered to provide something that you should be paid for totally for free?
Now, I am not talking about helping out a friend, colleague or even stranger from time to time (in a business sense, of course- get your mind out of the gutter!). I advocate being generous, but there is a difference between generosity and slut-hood. I am talking about not knowing where to draw the line. I am talking about giving away a free scoop of ice cream (or a frickin’ hot fudge sundae) even after the free pink spoonful worth. I am talking about discounting your services because of a lack of confidence and purpose. Those are the hallmarks of a true business slut.
Sluts make life hard on everyone because they set a dangerous precedent.
If these words don’t inspire you, watch the following video “Pay the Writer” by Harlan Ellison (which I was alerted to via Twitter by Jason Seiden via @frankroche of ifractal) who will hopefully reinforce why those who are willing to give “it” away create a tougher playing field for the rest of us.
Will you stop being a slut?
