I just got a lead from someone who left a message saying he wants to have appointments set on his behalf.

I used to consider these inquiries a nuisance, because it would bother me to ignore them, and I didn't feel I could benefit from them, directly.

But now, I take a different tack.

For example, at present, my firm doesnt do appointment-setting, but we know others who do.

So, without hesitation, I didnt call him to say no; I passed along his inquiry to someone who can say yes.

I wont earn a spiff, a commission, or a referral fee of any kind.

But its in everybodys interest to make the economy more efficient, so instead of sitting on this lead, I sent it out as soon as I could, which happened to be within five minutes of receiving it.

This is the second time this week that Ive done it, and I know, somewhere in the ether, someone, the great Overseer of All Business, is keeping track, and my very minor generosity will come back to me.

Perhaps multiplied, as some folks believe.

No matter, we should develop a small but responsive network of people to whom we can distribute excess or not quite relevant leads, if for no other reason, than it feel so good, and makes us feel were making a contribution.