Posted on September 23, 2025

Have you ever had a colleague offer a helpful tip, or a mentor share an important contact, and later you felt a strong desire to return the favor? 

That feeling is completely natural, and it's a powerful principle in business. It has a name: The Power of Reciprocity!

The way our brains are built, when someone does something nice for us, we feel a strong urge to do something nice back.

It's like our own internal fairness meter. When someone "scratches our back," we naturally want to "scratch theirs" too.

This is a super powerful idea for anyone in business, whether you're an entrepreneur, a business owner, or in sales.

It's not about being sneaky or trying to trick anyone. It's about being genuinely helpful and building trust.

Here's how you can use this awesome power:

1. Give Something Valuable First (No Strings Attached!)

Instead of immediately asking someone to buy something or do something for you, try giving them something helpful first. And here's the key: don't expect anything back right away.

Think about it:

Offer helpful ideas: If you're talking to a potential client, give them some free advice that could genuinely help their business, even if they don't buy from you right then.

Share useful information: Maybe you have a guide or a tip sheet that would be perfect for them. Send it over!

A free mini lesson: If you teach something, offer a short, free version of your class or a quick consultation.

Go the extra mile: Show you really care by truly listening to their needs, even if it takes a little extra time.

This initial act of being generous makes people feel good. It shows them you're not just trying to get something from them; you actually want to help.

2. Build Trust, Not Just Sales

When you give first, you start to build something really important: trust. People think, "Wow, this person is so helpful and generous.

I bet their product or service is great too!" They'll be much more open to listening to you when you eventually talk about what you offer. They'll feel like you're on their team.

3. It Makes Them Want to Return the Favor

Because of that "reciprocity" feeling, your potential customer will be more likely to want to do something for you in return.

That "something" could be moving forward with a purchase, trying out your service, or even just listening more openly to your ideas. They feel a natural pull to balance the scales.

Remember, this isn't about giving small bribes. It's about building a strong foundation of real helpfulness and mutual respect.

When you genuinely offer value and help others, they'll naturally be more inclined to help you in return. It's a simple, human way to build strong relationships and achieve success together!