It’s never crowded along the extra mile. ~ Wayne Dyer, American Psychologist

Go the extra mile in your work, and you are sure to succeed.

Go the extra mile in your work, and you are sure to succeed.

I was enjoying a nice lunch with a friend and peer last week. As always we talk about what has inspired us lately. She shared a quote with me that immediately changed the direction of my day. The quote was: “If you go the extra mile, it’s not as crowded.” WOW! After she said those words, I literally dropped my fork and thought about if for a long while before responding. For several minutes we sat in silence (something only close friends are often comfortable doing). We finished lunch and paid the bill, and as we left the restaurant I could not get the quote out of my mind. It has now become a “mantra” for me to live by and share with others.

When you think that the majority of salespeople in today’s business environment do just what is needed…nothing less…nothing moreit becomes clear that by going the extra mile your own success is almost guaranteed.

There are countless ways you can go the extra mile. However, several of these extra-mile-methods came to mind as I reflected on my earlier conversation. Here are a few ways to really shine in your work – and possibly outshine your competition:

Go in the direction of excellence. Exceed expectations.

Go in the direction of excellence. Exceed expectations.

  • Be the first to respond to a lead
  • Give accurate and timely information
  • Give more than the client asks for
  • Set follow up times and stick to them
  • Be an advocate for your client
  • Under promise and OVER DELIVER
  • Share your knowledge openly and honestly

I am certain with some thought you can establish your own list of ways to go the extra mile. So, add to this list, put these actions into practice, and when you do, I guarantee with these simple extra efforts you will find yourself on a road less crowded – a road where you’ve greatly increased your opportunity to succeed.

We’d love to hear you comments or ideas on going the extra mile.