We All Need A Bell

‘Tis the season.  Yes it’s that time of the year again.  The talk of getting a Christmas tree came up the other day.  The Christmas lights are out.  Snow is in the forecast.  The funny thing is that either made you smile or say ‘bah-humbug’, which one for you?

[I'm not claiming original thought on this concept.  Unfortunately, I can't remember where I've heard it so I can't give credit where it is due.]

I notice something funny every year at this time.  There seems to be more and more people asking for money.  It is unfortunate that the economy is bad, unemployment is up and money is tight.  It is the season for giving though.  So what type of giver are you?  Do you pick and choose who is worthy of your money?  Do you give some change or a dollar to everyone who asks?

I’m going to admit to something here that could get me in big trouble but truthfully, I judge people.  I’m guessing I’m not a lone in this.  Actually, I’d go so far as to say everyone does it either consciously or unconsciously, I’m just not afraid to admit it.  I judge those people that ask me for money and they get different amounts of money by my preconceived notions.  What is my basis for this?  Credibility and trust.

Here’s the scenario:  you come out of the grocery store and there is person A and person B.

1. If one person (A)  is in tattered clothes, dirty and looks like he’s been on the street longer, the cash goes to B and the change to A.
2. If one person (A) has a sign and the other one doesn’t (B), then the cash goes to A and the change to B.
3. If one person has a bell (A) and the other doesn’t (B), then the cash goes to A and the change to B.
4. Finally, if Santa is there he gets it all.  I’m hoping for some good presents.

Is this wrong of me? Truth be told I don’t carry a lot of cash on me.  I use my cards for everything so giving is limited.  These people have a few seconds to build credibility and trust and they do it by their appearance the props they have with them.  If I recognize the name, hear the bell or even a “ho-ho-ho” that’s credibility for me.  I have more faith that that money is going to a good cause.  In the end, what’s the difference between a homeless guy and the person working for the Salvation Army?  Doesn’t it come down to credibility?

Everybody recognizes the sound of the bell this time of year.  What’s your bell?  How do you differentiate yourself and build instant credibility

Tagged as: beggars, begging, charity, credibility, donations, money