You Have To Win With People

If there is one skill you need to learn more than any other it’s how to win with people. There is no greater catalyst for success than to understand the art of connecting with others.

In my book, Leadology I talk about how in 1921, Charles Schwab was one of the first American businessmen to be paid over a million-dollar salary by U.S. Steel owner Andrew Carnegie. What’s interesting is that Schwab didn’t know much at all about steel or manufacturing. In fact, he let it be known that his workers knew much more than he about the business. But this is what Schwab said about why he was paid so well: “I consider my ability to arouse enthusiasm among my people the greatest asset I possess, and the way to develop the best that is in a person is by appreciation and encouragement.” It was Schwab’s ability to win with people that sealed his success.

John D. Rockefeller said, “The ability to deal with people is as purchasable a commodity as sugar or coffee and I will pay more for that ability than for any other under the sun.”

There is no denying that ultimate success is dependent on how well you win with people. One of the most important things I work on with many of my coaching clients is there interaction with others. It is one of the foundational components of effective leadership. You can’t lead someone if you don’t get along with them.

One of the best resources I have come across is my mentor Dr. John C. Maxwell’s book, Winning With People. It is by far my highest recommended training material for influencing others. I studied the book, lived it out, and have taught it now for over fifteen years and it still stands the test of time.

If you want to get better at winning with people you only do so by surrounding yourself with resources to help you grow.