One of my primary tenets is the idea that you should give away your best ideas for free. Teach, coach and guide as often as you can. The more you are seen doing so, the more you generate and encourage the phrase, ‘You know who you should talk to about that?’ and position yourself as an expert. 

Case in point: A few weeks ago I presented an educational Skype session for a group of speakers in Namibia. I spent an hour online sharing some formulas for business growth and giving away some of my best ideas to people who, it might be argued, represent my direct competition in this region. The session came to an end, I signed off, and I didn’t pay it another thought. 

A few days later, I received an invitation. One of the delegates had recommended me to a bank in Windhoek, who booked me to speak at two of their events. I’ve just returned, and my experience in that nation was as enjoyable as ever. 

When you are asked to present in public forums, and to share ideas about how you did it, say yes. The principle is actually very simple: Give and you will receive. Teach freely, and you could become the greatest in your game.  

Douglas Kruger is a professional keynote speaker at conferences around the world. He specialises in disruptive innovation and expert-positioning, helping brands to become more memorable than their competitors’. See him in action, or sign up for his motivational newsletter, at www.douglaskruger.co.za. Book him to present for your leadership team: email info@douglaskrugerspeaker.com