Leaders Help Others. Period.

As many of you know, I have been a career transition coach for more than twenty years. Revenue for my business is generated elsewhere, as career coaching is something done on the side.

Last year, the tool I've used when coaching was made available using the "pay it forward" model. The tool, the Targeting & Tracking System (TTS), is free if you need it to be, but if you have $40 for drinks with your buddies, paying for the TTS is an option. Or, you could buy it for someone else and have it sent to them. All three options are cheerfully explained on the web site (http://bit.ly/5dyixj).

Last week, someone asked me about the pay it forward model. They could not believe the tool would be given away free to just anyone. There just had to be a catch, in her eyes.

"In today's economy, why would someone give away something so valuable?" she repeatedly asked.

A few reasons...

First, people have shared valuable tools with me over the years. They inspire me to want to do the same for others.

Second, helping those in need is what leaders do.

Leaders seek ways to help others be their best. Let's face it, being out of a job limits one's chances for performing at one's best. Leaders seek ways to share their expertise with people who need it. Leaders are not always selfishly out for a buck.

Leaders know when they can help, and they do it.

Here are a few more examples of top-notch leaders helping others:

1. A home builder in New York, John Doyle with Alure Homes, helped build several houses for ABC's Extreme Home Makeover. Sure, it's good promotion for the company, but it's also hours and materials given with a generous, kind intent for the new homeowners. Alure Homes recently was awarded 2009 Angies List "Super Customer Service Award" for the third straight year. You can't fake that kind of service.

2. Marian Madonia, an employee engagement expert, often consults briefly with people who heard her speak at conferences. She answers questions without telling them they have to contact her at the office, which implies they should expect an invoice. She helps because she can and they need it. Of course, if the matter is extensive, the client expects to pay and arrangements are made. But, she helps without asking about that first.

3. A successful KC realtor, Michael Maher with Realty Executives, gives away real estate buying and selling tips--even to other realtors. Free. He helps people because he is a leader and he can!

4. Chip Lewis, an Indiana attorney, answers legal questions without turning on a meter. He's not out to gouge people. He's out to help people.

There are examples of people helping others out of genuine kindness all over the place.

If you haven't done so lately, identify a skill you could share with those in need and how you could do it wisely (without risk to your current job). Leaders help people because they can. Leaders constantly seek ways to bring out the best in others.That's what they do. Period.