By asking “What do I bring to the table?” we identify the good that we offer to others.
A Narrow Context
We can think of “bring to the table” in a number of contexts.
Most obviously, we think of our professional accomplishments. Moreover, we may define who we are in terms of our job if we’re not careful.
Another context is to think in terms of our hobbies. Thus, we’re really good at…then you fill in the blank (e.g., golf, tennis, hunting, fishing).
Or maybe we’re a collector. So we know a lot about…again, fill in the blank.
All that aside, for now I want to answer the “What do I bring to the table” question by focusing on relationships.
Therefore, let’s explore what it looks like to be conscious in each interaction of what we might offer to the other person.
Our Unique Value
One component of a value proposition is our target audience. Another is the unique value we bring to that audience.
Most often, we create a value proposition to describe our professional capabilities and the outcomes those strengths produce.
That is, here’s who I am, what I deliver, to whom, and the expected outcomes I create. Now, envision a value proposition for relationships – – those we influence.
Strengths and Gifts
By swapping the context from professional to personal, we’re pushed to focus on our interpersonal strengths. Thus, we have to take a hard look inward at our giftedness in relation to others.
For instance, do I find myself really good at identifying potential, then encouraging others to pursue their potential?
Similarly, as a mentor, am I especially gifted at being compassionate when someone needs a listening ear while facing a personal crisis?
Am I sensitive enough to slow down, shift from professional to personal, and step out of fix-it mode when needed?
In so doing, I’ve become someone who influences and inspires because I recognize the inherent value of those around me.
The precept behind this reasoning is found in Proverbs 27.17: “Iron sharpens iron…” Likewise, we sharpen others through use of our interpersonal strengths.
Apply This Today!
One way to develop relational sensitivity is to ask “What can I do for you?” Or, at least to be thinking “What can I offer this person?”
An assumption here is we’re self-aware enough to know our interpersonal strengths. Then, we must be self-confident enough to use those strengths when we recognize the opportunity to do so.
Have I made my positive influence on others a matter of deliberate personal development? Goal setting for professional development is essential. But, don’t overlook building interpersonal skills that benefit others.
“What’s in it for me?” Well, what if the answer is – – nothing? Fact is, traits like compassionate listening may never be repaid!
It’s best, I think, to view bring-to-the-table as an aspect of living with purpose. We’re purpose-driven because of who we are as a person.
For a person of faith, there’s a deeper impact. Here’s my paraphrase of Matthew 5.16: Allow the light of your good works to shine so brightly before others that it points them to God. Ultimately, it’s not about me – – at all.
To be most impactful in the lives of others, we must know our unique value and then be the authentic person in each interaction who shares that value.
I’m Dale Young. My posts share the balanced life to build wise character and guide wise behavior.
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