Do Not Bite the Hands That Help You Eat

There's an old saying, "Do not bite the hand that feeds you." In terms of working for a company, that hand would be your employer, which is sometimes your boss. You are hired, assigned work, and most importantly, paid by your employer. Every employee knows that making your employer happy is top priority. Everyone knows that making your employer unhappy is an absolute no-no.

I think this is good thinking, but I want to take it one step further. I'd also like to say, "Do not bite the hands that help you eat."

I consider everyone I work with as other "hands" that help me make money. From my colleagues and co-workers, to my bank teller, to the office supply store stockroom worker, to the mailman, to the crossing guard lady. All of these people, in one way or another, contribute to my efficiency and work output, and sometimes, even my way of living. If they are having a great day, they will be better at helping me do what I need to get done. And if any of them are having a bad day, there's a greater chance that I, too, will suffer the consequences.

So whenever I have to deal with them, I do my best to make their lives a little better. Even if it's a simple transaction at the bank, I will ask the teller how she's doing, how her day has been going so far, and if there's anything I can do to make her job easier. When I meet with clients, I always ask them what kind of day they're having. If they're really tired and it's near the end of the day, I do my best to keep the meeting short and to the point so they can go home earlier. Regardless of who makes how much money, and who has a "higher" job classification, I do my best to listen, cooperate, and be sympathetic.

To me, this attitude isn't just "being a good person." It's also good business.