The co-op business model: share whatever you've got
2011-11-20
I feel like I know almost nothing about business, because the only business I’ve ever done is the co-op / sharing model.
It goes like this:
1. You already have something that people want.
It might be something you own, something you’ve learned how to do, or access to valuable resources, space, or people.
2. Find a way to share it with everyone who needs it.
Share because it’s what you do for friends, because it’s the right thing to do, because it makes the world a better place, and because it’ll make you deeply happy.
Share as your contribution in return for all the things and ideas that people have shared with you.
(If you’re having a bad day, or someone has recently wronged you, you may not feel the world has shared much with you, but here’s a reminder.)
3. If it takes some effort for you to share it, you can charge a little something for your effort, to ensure that this giving can continue.
My examples:
-
In 1994, the U.S. Copyright office still didn’t have their copyright forms online.
You still had to mail a letter to Washington DC to ask them to mail you some blank forms, if you wanted to copyright your songs.
I scanned all the forms, and put them on my website for free as printable downloads, for any musician who needed them.
For the next year or two, until the government started putting the forms online, my site was the only place to get them. This was my first effort to contribute back to this great invention of the internet. -
In 1995, I learned how to trademark my band name.
It took many hours of work to figure out the legalese, but I did it.
I wrote out the step-by-step instructions and put them on my band’s website for free.
For years it was the go-to resource for musicians who wanted to trademark their name. -
In 1996, I had a little record label, so I got a UPC barcode account, so I could put unique UPC barcodes on my CDs.
I had to pay $750 to the Universal Code Council to get a company account, but that meant I was allowed to create 100,000 products under my account.
Musician friends asked how, so I showed them how, but also said they could use one of my product IDs.
At first, I did this for free, as a favor, until friends started sending strangers my way. Because it took a little work to generate the number, create their EPS/TIFF graphic barcode, and keep track of their unique IDs forever, I charged $20.
Over the next 12 years, this made me almost $2 million. -
In 1997, I got a credit card merchant account to sell my own CD at live shows.
It cost $1000 in set-up fees and took three months of red-tape paperwork.
Then I built a little online shopping cart, which also took months of work, just to sell my own CD.
Musician friends asked if they could use mine instead of having to go through all of that work, so I said OK.
At first, I did this for free, as a favor, until it was taking up all of my time. Because it took me 45 minutes of work to digitize, stock, set up a new album in my system, I charged $35 per new album. Because it took 10 minutes of work to pick, pack, and ship a purchased CD, I charged $4 per CD sold.
Over the next 12 years, this made me about $20 million. -
In 1999, I had learned a lot about hosting websites.
Linux, Apache, PHP, SQL, FTP, DNS, Qmail, SpamAssassin, etc.
I had done it for myself for my band’s website, then for CD Baby, and bought my own servers.
So when friends would complain about their existing web-hosting company, I’d host them on my servers instead.
At first, I did this for free, as a favor, until it was filling up my server. Because each server cost me $300/month, and I had to hire a full-time person to manage this, I charged $20 per month. (In 1999 this was way cheap.)
Over the next 9 years, this made me about $5 million. -
Since 2000, I’ve been sharing everything I’ve learned for free.
I’m not the smartest guy, probably below average, but it costs nothing to share, and it’s the right thing to do, so I do.
Over the last 11 years, this made me incredibly happy and lucky, because of all the interesting people I’ve met by doing it.
Point being:
None of these things looked like a business venture.
All of them were just sharing something I already had.
People often ask me if I have any suggestions for what kind of business they should get into.
I tell them the only thing I know how to recommend: “Start by sharing whatever you’ve got.”
This is exactly how I started my creative services business 3 years ago. It works. Great advice.
It starts with a good heart that loves and You have that Derek. Next is doing what needs to be done. Not everybody does it. You did and it made all the difference. Keep sharing Derek. Love what you do and how you do it.
Hello Derek,
Thank you for this post. I am the Lead Vocalist, in ROCK HARD & CO. I'm trying to succeed in this crazy world, and in this business of Music. I also teach gymnastics part time for extra income. You are a great mentor to me, and I greatly appreciate your cyber acquaintance.
Respectfully,
Christine Oram
Your words are priceless! Even though your hands may be empty you are eternally happy! An elder told me once that when you can teach and give away what you learn/have you then are truly the master for you found how to minimize the ego! Nice!
There is one more benefit of sharing, you learn to express yourself. I learned how to express myself by writing about things people want to know(in my case programming). I'm far from writer but sharing connects me with people.
brilliant to see this printed so simply. everyone who reads this should do at least one thing to share.
If only all the world were this open to sharing. My story is similar. Had an idea, tested it for myself. it worked, other people asked me to show them how. The business grows.
You just never know where the inspiration and monetization can come from.
Excellent article. Another small point is that these people are motivated to pay because they are hoping to make money themselves selling cds or whatever. I've been sharing over 100 video guitar lessons on YouTube with 1.5 million views and can't get more than a handful of people to pay for online courses/webcam lessons. I assume I'm doing something wrong or people can get so much free stuff online they have so many options, as opposed to taking credit card payments (at the time).
So I'm looking at focusing on mobile web app development which I'm enjoying learning, as I learn things I am sharing them on Posterous and Twitter, etc.
Amazing article, really loved the youtube video, didn´t know about Luis C K. Thanks for sharing!
Hi Derek! I so agree with you! I had so much help, from so many wonderful mentors, yourself included, and I believe in paying it forward! I am now running my own CSW Artist Management and Consultation business, as I was spending so much time giving away all that I learned over the past 16 years, I decided it was time to get paid for all those hours I put in. I don't charge much, but enough that I am taken seriously. You have been a friend and an inspiration, and I want to thank you publicly for being the great spirit that you are, and for your gentle guidance through shark infested waters! You inspire me every day and make me want to do more.
Mother always said,
"You'll have more fun
if you share your toys."
Thanks, again, Derek. I just had a set-back on Friday, which allows me to have some open-endedness for future plans. I was so focused on that opportunity, that I put my dreaming on hold.
Now I'm back to dreaming (like that place better, anyway) and the shift to finding what I have to share, and sharing it...good words, indeed. Now I can't wait to dig through and see what I've got!
Thank you Derek you've always been an inspirational model for me. I'm still in a blur, as what every teen experiences, I still have to find what I already have that people may want. I have begun experimenting
Thanks for sharing Derek.
There's loads of stuff I know that I never share because I didn't think anyone else would be interested. Now I know that some might be, I will start sharing this week.
Very inspiring story, thanks
I think the future world economy depends a lot on concise models like this, so as to maximize resources. Businesses are reaching a saturation point, because with the internet, anyone has access to the world now, as a customer base, with little effort or investment. But it also means supply easily, quickly outstrips demands. There is currently just too much "redundancy" ... too many people providing the same services/products. If everyone shared a particular area of expertise and complement each other, we would be maximizing and ultilizing everyone's skills/abilities in an efficient manner.
Wonderful concept - one I'm working to include in the revision of my website, to have lots of free downloadable harp music folks can print out, in addition to lots of (small fee) pay-as-you-print music as well. Same website name, totally different appearance due out in a few days!
Is there no room for ambition?
Ye'up! Thanks, Derek. "I don't know much, but I 'Do Know How.' "
How the Internet is about sharing is what I love about it.
Growing up in Vermont I learned about barn raisings and sharing your knowledge along with your labor to help others, on the Internet we are raising millions of barns every day.
Very much sharing amongst friends is a fantastic thing. Then suddenly someone will mention - you ought to do this... Which is the point you either capitalize on it, or you let it go.
Goes back to your: Hell Yeah, or Hell No concept.
Yo Mr. avid student of life... I'm in your classroom and I'm peeking over your shoulder. I trust my answers but I wanna know what you came up with. If we have the same answer I feel reassured. If we have different answers, I start blank canvas again making sure that I totally believe in myself before moving forward.
Thank you for sharing!
ricky
I know what needs to be done next. The best thing about you, Derek, is you explain ideas in such simple way that I personally get AHA moments. I think I have to re listen o your book.
Uncommon sense
Sharing is a good way to live and work. Reminds me of a great quote:
“You are forgiven for your happiness and your successes only if you generously consent to share them.” – Albert Camus
What a great read. It is so interesting to know how your businesses came to be. Your sharing changed the playing field of the music business in a huge way to the benefit of the creators.
Good post! When you look back, think of all the times somebody gave you good advice without expecting something in return. Like, why don't you use a bar chord instead of playing everything at the bottom of the neck? You like that? Its a major seventh chord. Put your fingers like this.
Recently, I was rereading a portion of Benjamin Franklin's autobiography and came across a very modern idea. Concerning his stove design, Franklin said o the governor:
"... he offered to give me a patent for the sole vending of them for a term of years; but I declin’d it from a principle which has ever weighed with me on such occasions, viz., That, as we enjoy great advantages from the inventions of others, we should be glad of an opportunity to serve others by any invention of ours; and this we should do freely and generously."
Sounds like he also invented copyleft ;-)
I really like your straight forward and generous approach to building a business. Makes sense, will do!
hi Derek~
this is exactly the heart of the Revolution, sharing, giving, Loving.
Sharing your expertise also validates your expertise which leads to trust which leads to people seeking you out willing to pay for that expertise which leads to greater validation which leads to.............................. and it all started with sharing. love the CD Baby story.
These anecdotes remind me of the quote in your book, Anything You Want: "Never forget that absolutely everything you do is for your customers. Make every decision -- even decisions about whether to expand the business, raise money, or promote someone -- according to what's best for your customers." Worth reading. And re-reading. Thanks.
"If I have seen further than others, it is by standing upon the shoulders of giants."
Isaac Newton
So true! I know I would be in a very different place if it weren't for the people who showed up to guide me.
You certainly appeared and added to my life and that of my family.
Thank you for that, Derek!
This story gives an invaluable perspective on what is really important for the success of a business. We could all learn from this.
It seems you are very good at finding (and solving) problems that a lot of other people also have. That's genius! I can't wait for the day that I solve a problem that other people care about. If I can help even a tenth the number of people you have helped I would feel this life was well worth it. You are one of my hero's Derek! Just incredibly inspiring...
Derek,
Inspired by you, I'm going to give away my product to friends that already want it, so that they can sell it or give it away to their friends. All I'll ask is that they sell it for no less than $20. If they sell out of the products I send them free (20-30), all I ask is that the help me cover the costs of producing more for them. If people love my product as much as I think they will, I hope the word of mouth will turn into more people being exposed to my product and buying it online at my store...we'll see how it goes.
You continue to inspire.
Thank you.
-Aldo
Dear Derek:
Because you shared many thousands of songwriters and others have been able to share their dreams to the world. I include myself in that big crowd.Thanks.
I think it's amazing that so many of us (and I include me here) can be so clueless about what we might know that would be worthwhile to share with others. I think your particular gift is identifying what you know and going all out with it. On a rainy Sunday morning I am now thinking about what I might could share with some other folks that would want to know about what I'm sharing : ) Nice chronology and "illustration" about where the sharing can lead. Thanks
COLLABORATION...absolutely!!! ;)
Brillian! I've shared it around, and especially apt was the video! Great choice for shifting perspective.
Thanks.
Elli
In education, we often speak of the fact that each person has unique talents to contribute to the classroom community. Your story broadens this to the real world community. Every person "has" something to give that others do not have but would find useful if they did. The trick is to recognize what it is that we already hold in our hands and then find a way to share it with others.
Thanks for this simple slice of brilliance.
I can totally relate to this! Getting a job at a web agency, and later starting my own business selling plugins for a CMS, were both spawned from sharing things for free.
https://plus.google.com/102820266708719430295/posts/huuYjvGAYQs
Thanks for posting, Derek!
You know I think this is the point I have a hard time with. I need to get better at sharing... I guess my issue is when do you go from sharing to getting taken advantage of.
Derek,
I started a small networking group, where I come to share and help others in whatever way I can. This week, I'll share with them your wonderful story!
Thanks, Derek! It's the way to be. Bill
Thanks for sharing the story - a great example of "doing well by doing good." CDbaby continues as you started it and all the indie music tips there have helped me immensely. I have passed them on to many students and clients. Thanks!
Jason Paul Johnston
Derek, I re-found your website a few months ago and signed up for your newsletter because you seem like an awesome guy, have great articles, and were a wildly successful, self start-up.
I read your other article in about sand dollars and loved it, but this is the one article I'm glad I read today. It reinforces the idea that one can make money by being helpful with what comes naturally (one doesn't have to start the next ebay, facebook, etc). I think this is the helpful reminder that I need right now.
Thanks for being awesome!
I use CD Baby, Host Baby and I am almost ready to submit my, "Seven Short Stories of the Vietnam War" to Book Baby. All because you share! Bless your heart, Derek.
Yes! Yes, yes. This is the model. Thank you for illustrating this wonderful principle.
Got a link to this article in an email you sent me. Well worth it. Please keep them coming.
Thanks Derek! Sharing is so simple ,but apparently very effective and contagious!
Yeah buddy, I just did this with my new album actually, I'm sharing it but in a different way. It came out last week and the idea was simple, my "Artist Royalty" from all sales is going to a non profit called NOT FOR SALE. http://www.notforsalecampaign.org/ It's a venture that I hope I sell millions of copies of the album, not for my pride or self ego, but because it will give others an opportunity for a new like, FREEDOM FROM SLAVERY, I encourage you to check out my album with a free song download and streaming samples at my new website.
www.LanceKingVox.com
May the force be with you ; )
Consider yourselves hugged, Lance
Such a good heart and so wise...
Thanks Derek!
Simply Amazing, you always inspire me!
Thank you!
When I finally learned how to go from smoking three + packs a day to permanently become a non-smoker (HINT: It does NOT involve "quitting"!) I began telling others about it. This led to coaching, classes, and eventually the book "Changing Your Mind About Smoking." At first this was printed and sold through Amazon, Barnes & Noble, etc. Eventually I learned about e-books and re-published it that way.
I learned quickly that giving it away for free caused people to not value it enough to follow through, so i now charge for it--however, if someone will absolutely, positively commit to follow it through to the conclusion of being a non-smoker, I will give the e-book to them free. Part of the agreement is that if they do not keep their agreement, they owe me $19.95 for the book.
If anyone wants to take advantage of the free offer, you can contact me through the e-mail form on abcompany.com. You will owe me either a confirmation that you have become a permanent non-smoker within 4 months, or a statement that you are still in the process and require an extension, or $19.95
I enjoyed reading this - thanks for sharing!
This sharing of knowledge/experiences helps future generations, like myself, learn from other with more experience like you. Thanks for taking the time and effort to do it.
I love to hear stories like this of people being successful by wholeheartedly helping others. In our society, the focus is on "me" to much of the time instead of the good of everyone.
Great post, Derek.
I'm challenged by it because with my ecommerce business we have customers who are doing $10's of thousands of dollars through our system paying the same as those doing very few transactions. We need to setup price tiers that make sense based on the resources used and the time involved from our team. We want to maximize our revenue so we can continue to expand our team and provide more features. At the same time, we want to maximize our value to the customer and provide an inexpensive option for the entrepreneur who is just getting started.
I want to share what we've spent 5+ years building, but I also want it to grow and I want to pay my team well. I don't want to share things so cheaply that it ends up hurting my customers in the long run.
Thank you again Derek!
I got to share more!
And the "below average" post is great too.
liberating thought ... doesn't come easy to everyone. I reckon you can train yourself to share much like you train to do anything else.
"Share because it’s what you do for friends, because it’s the right thing to do, because it makes the world a better place, and because it’ll make you deeply happy."
This is a great business philosophy, and overall approach to life!
Thanks,
Ziv.
Thank you, Derek! Great advice at a time when I'm over thinking.
Hello Derek! Around 1890, KROPOTKINE wrote "Mutual aid : a factor of evolution" saying animal species who shared had more chances of survival... Its always worth repeating!
Great words of wisdom Derek. I started my biz to help struggling indies that I deemed worthy of more exposure. My intention was/is to make money, but I have spent more than I have received. I'm not complaining as I have another job that pays the bills. It is rewarding to do the work when the artists appreciate what you are doing for them and sharing with them. But, my hope is that I will get ahead so I can leave the other job and do this full time!
This is a great post as it relates to the "see a need, fill a need" mentality. If you see something that is broken or needs optimizing, go and fix it, and make it simpler for others to use as well.
This is what all good entrepreneurs and innovators start with.
Thanks for sharing this Derek.
wow,
This is how I turned my passionn for cake decorating into a business. I started doing it for friends to make them happy, and because it made me happy. Eventually I started charging and now it's my business.
Never thought of it like that.. Thanks.
Veena
As a musician I would like to thank you for paving the way!!! Thank you for making our lives easier. I'll take it as my responsibility to pass it on and share what I can
Derek, Thanks for your insights. The ideas you share seem to resonate with me more often than not & I enjoy your voice. Loved Anything You Want and your youtube interview series. Cheers from Portland -George
Yes, sharing is a great concept! It could be challenging if what you want to share seems too complex to others. If an idea/concept/program that you want to share is supported by others it makes much easier to share it and move forward. Simplicity is genius! It makes total sense to be precise, clear, positive when you share your ideas, concepts, programs, products. So others are open to receive information in the first place.
Sounds wonderful, but some questions remain:
-What if there are so few that even want what I have got that I can't make millions, not to speak of a living, from sharing it or asking for a small contribution?
- What if I pump hours, days, weeks, months etc of work into a project and very few care? Or else someone else makes millions from what I've laboured over and I get nothing or next to nothing?
How can I make a living from that?
I do make about a third of my annual income from playing live & selling records (occasionally teaching, too), so I don't complain, but yet I sometimes think about concepts like "breakthrough" "lucky break" etc. maybe thinking there's nothing like that, just many small ones (if even that?).
Thanks for everything!
Excellent article. Inspiring and I got my tasks laid out for me.
I'd been shooting videos for friends for free, now I've got a concert DVD coming out from when I went on tour last year with a prolific musician.
Time to share some of my guitar knowledge.
Thanks for this!
Anup
Simple, elegant and absolutely true. It costs nothing and the ROI is infinite.
Thank you Derek, as always, for being such a great inspiration! I love that you linked that Louie C.K. clip to this post, awesome!!
Leo shared this on G+. It's exactly what I needed to hear today. Thanks for leading wisely!
Your words came at a much needed time. Sometimes you think you just keep sharing and sharing, and everyone is calling you a fool for being so open and generous, but then you connect with like people like yourself who vocalize what you believe and feel and it truly means a lot.
Thank you for sharing your wisdom
This is a great way to approach a mutually beneficial problem - providing skills you have gained through your own adventures to others that are experiencing the same problems.
Business without personality and empathy is boring.
So true =)
Absolutely loved this, Derek. Especially 'Everything's Amazing & Nobody's Happy.
I've been given an amazing opportunity recently, which is related to some volunteer work I did last year because I loved it and felt in my core that it was something I was meant to do. Never in a million years would I have guessed I would be making a film, but alas, I am.
Thanks for putting this simple lesson into perspective.
I have been sharing and giving since I opened the doors Derek. I didn't really know why I started doing that. I have been doing this since childhood. Some people say I am too giving. I can't help it. It is the way I am. I believe it is part of our being. We are either a giver or a taker.
These are natural extensions of the sand dollar story, don't you think?
Derek,
Thanks for sharing.. Very good article as always.. Waiting for your Wood Egg books Entrepreneur's Guides...
Vaibhav
OK, so I've just lost 30 minutes of my life on YouTube, watching the Louis CK clip then trawling through the sidebar - which I shouldn't say was "lost" because it felt very worth it.
This is incredibly true, and I really wish that I had read it about 10 or 15 years ago. Whilst I've always been fairly good at sharing I've always made sure that I've kept some things for myself. Yes it's horrible to admit, but for many years I did feel that knowledge was power. So I was willing to share some of it, but always kept a little bit of power for myself.
Added to this, I've often felt embarrassed about sharing some things, because who am I to tell people what to do/think/understand etc. There has been a certain amount of fear and trepidation in it.
It's only been in the last 5 years probably that I've really realised that sharing knowledge is power - and I've been better at giving away. I've also started to find my voice and realise that if people don't want what I have to share, well that's ok too.
From this post I think that I still have a lot to learn, but it has also given me something to aspire to.
As always Derek, thank you for the insights - always gives me something else to think about.
Great insights! What a wonderful perspective to have.
Wow. Average! Not in a million years. Thanks for all you've done and continue to do. Hope I can use this idea for my "sleep music"...Jack
This is called entrepreneurship, Derek. This is the basis of capitalism, and what makes this country work!
We need more people who think like this. I intend to be one of those people.
Thank you Derek
I think you are a great entrepreneur, Derek! I agree wholeheartedly with "start by sharing whatever you have" for two reasons; Firstly because it is wise to use a current resource to generate more resources (in fact I'm not aware of a business model that differs from this on a basic level) and secondly it shows protectionism for what it is - a dead end where everyone loses.
I started Jungl VPN because a friend needed to access the Internet in China without being censored. I setup a server for him and charged him the monthly cost of the server. As word got around I won more customers and slowly got a website and internet merchant setup. Three years later we are growing steadily and thoroughly enjoy running the business.
Derek, hey my friend!
I was a recipient to many of those services that you provided and offered me an opportunity to reach a broader audience I thank you and I look forward to incorporating many of the above listed efforts in order to help those who don't know. Enjoy, and continued success
Once again Derek you have driven a point home using very simple illustrations. When you share for free for example, you create trust and even when you start charging the clients still keep coming back.
I have been sharing and giving away marketing/PR/promotions/informations and generally issuing a public service for musicians since 2008 and when NING to charge I got very minimal response from many of the artist whom I served and empowered when I requested that they PLEASE! support TGJN. I
I offered educational bridge phone conversations with experts like Derik Sivers and others as well as provided air play and video play and much more to a group of two thousand plus individuals who in most cases had no appreciation for the gifts given gratis.
I was accused of living off of the site, told that I was trying to carry the weight of the world on my personal shoulders, and many other vilifying statements were made that were defaming and insulting.
My take is that "NO GOOD DEED GOES UNPUNISHED" as many continue to use the site(s) and never offer a penny and several have left when I have asked for contributions.
How does one change that?
Very very true Derek, sharing is a good way to start and a way to live.
The Bible talks so much about sharing, you know ( 2 Timothy 6v18; 2 Corinthians 8v7, 9v6-11; Acts 20v35). Of course, sharing is an act of God demonstrated by His love. The Holy book tells us that God so loved the world that He shared of Himself, he shared with humans His only son who is full of eternal life in order that humans may have eternal life through Him (John 3v16). Eternal life is the God-kind of life. That is the greatest act of sharing of all time. Further More, in Jesus, God makes us partakers of His divine nature (2 Peter 1v4). Wow, I Iuv that Derek. Sharing is the best way to start and to live.
Thank u for sharing Derek and I thank God for your life.
Stay blessed and much love to you and family
Perfect Timing on this as well Derek. Thanks for sharing. Geralyn
That is the ultimate trust thing Derek. It is why I regularly quote your name to people I meet who trust me. Rock on.
All businesses try to help people in one way or another. I think the key to Derek's unique success is that the focus is first on helping the individuals and then second on how to keep it alive with some form of revenue.
Too many companies (particularly large ones) focus on the money side first and lose focus on the product or service because the individual or customer is second in line. As a result, the product or service isn't as good, and better products or services end up taking over.
Great article!
This is inspiring, but also dangerously enticing (if I just do what Derek did...!?!) The BEAUTY of your story(s) lies in the fact that you never set out to be wildly successful in terms of $$. That just came to you as blessing flowing out of your generosity. That IS totally inspiring. As other posts have indicated, generosity is not always rewarded thus. Would I find joy in generosity for its own sake? Hm. That might be a cool, peaceful place.
I'm with Charles, I think LOVE (sharing/generosity/blessing) is at the heart of all that matters. So coming back to your wonderful stories-thanks for the example...when I'm grinding it out, " where's the next gig? where's the next paycheck? how are things going to work?..." I will try to remember-be generous, sharing and trust that God has a place for me in the larger Story.
Derek, this is your first post to cause me to “think” about my response rather than feel it from your last three (procrastination, sand dollars, co-op sharing). My initial response could be summed up in a quote by Jan L. A. van de Snepscheut “In theory there is no difference between practice and theory. But, in practice, there is."
The theory behind the co-op sharing model is sound and in practice you have made it work. Stanford University also has one of the most successful technology transfer models which are also based on sharing Intellectual property and then having the businesses reciprocate by gifting back to the program. A sharing and co-op good will model can work.
The three key elements of the co-op sharing model are:
- Knowledge to be shared
- Giver (person sharing knowledge)
- Recipient (person(s) receiving knowledge)
The value of knowledge could be defined as the product of the time it takes to develop the knowledge and the importance of the knowledge to the giver. The more valuable the knowledge is to the giver the greater the risk in giving it away. If the givers lively hood depends on this knowledge they will probably be more reluctant to give it away for free without knowing what the return would be. If the giver is in a position of financial freedom then they will be more likely to share and have less at risk.
If the givers intentions are to gift or share the knowledge and it is not core to their lively hood then the co-op sharing model absolutely will work. In the 1994 Copyright and 1995 Trademark examples there was no attempt to monetize, however, by gifting the knowledge you become a recognized thought leader and resource on these topics. This knowledge is tertiary to your business and while important not essential so the risk of sharing is low.
In 1996 UPC Barcode, 1997 Credit Card Merchant Account and 2000 hosting websites your original intent was to help your friends. As the word got out and people found out you were providing a valuable service the opportunity to monetize presented itself. IMHO a really important aspect of the co-op sharing business model is that if you provide value there will always be opportunities to monetize … This is the fundamental building block of ethical capitalism. By providing valuable services or products to the recipients you are able to translate that into a monetization opportunity.
The co-op business model is perhaps my favourite model. However, the giver needs to carefully consider the value of the knowledge they will be gifting, the potential risks if the receiver decides to take or re-purpose that knowledge for their own gain.
Perhaps the reason that this model isn’t used more is it requires a bit of a leap of faith on the part of the giver and that can be pretty scary. In theory it is a great model … in practice very difficult to make work.
I am inspired. I give away as many of my CDs as I sell. It makes me feel better.
As always, Derek, your thoughts and writing are very inspirational. Thank you for always sharing and making the world a better place.
Great examples, Derek. Thanks for sharing! - One thing I am wondering about, is if it is wise to share music for free instead of selling it. I mean, if someone want my music but can't afford to pay for it, why should they need to pay? After all, it cost me nothing (not even time) to give them the album or track. If someone wants to pay for it, that's nice. - I have tested this with my Bandcamp account, and I think it works. Several fans want to pay, because they can afford it, or because it's their way to say "thanks". However, I often meet artists who believe that if you give your music away for free, you communicate that the value it has, is low. - Do you have any thoughts about this, Derek?
Derek,
sell, sell, sell, then give to your favorite charities.
or start a foundation.
I guess I will be the lone voice of disagreement. I have always felt that if you do something well you should be paid to do it. While that isn't true for everything, I believe its absolutely fair to be compensated for something I have dedicated myself to learning.
To be fair, we do provide a lot of free information to our customers, but this isn't what our business is built on. Its built on offering extremely good service, returning calls, and doing what we say we will do.
Sharing is great. You also need to feed your family. I believe there can an exist a balance.
Lovely advice, thank you.
On a separate note, I am looking for a good analysis on the Avon Ladies marketing strategy (it seems relevant to social media to me). Have you come across anything insightful on the subject?
Many thanks,
Maurizio
www.thepocketroad.com
http://www.facebook.com/ThePocketRoad
Awesome Derek. Very insightful and informative
I feel this is great advice that seems contrarian to what most business people give. So many people are just focused on how much they can earn but I feel that this advice syncs more align with the universe. The more you give, the more energy you have and the more you get back! Rinse, wash and repeat. Very simple I love it!
We work with the poorest of the poor around the globe. They are always thankful when necessities are given (food, medicine, clothing, etc). But when we help them by sharing knowledge and the means to forever change their situation (providing goats, sheep, chickens, seeds, crops, farming, a sewing machine, tools for a trade, a way to sell their wares, etc ) to create a cottage or community industry, it's the most beautiful thing you can imagine.
Helping by sharing knowledge, by saying "let me show you how" instead of just "here, take this, bye."
Sharing knowledge changes lives. It takes more time and effort than a handout, because when you offer a hand-up you have to stay around for the pull. But oh the joy when they are on their feet, standing, and then say thank you.
Love sharing what I learn from you and others because what I've learned was shared with me.
I always thought the best business model is one that solves a problem. My eyes and ears are now tuned in for future business opportunities. Thank you!
SH
Hi Derek, Wonderful stuff!!
It makes us all feel better to give, although there are some mean minded folks who will never share anything with anyone. That's SAD!
I often give away my albums and sell only a few downloads on the internet, 'cause people expect them free on youtube.
That's how the game is and I often busk here and there for the fun of it.
Hope you are well 'cause I remember waving goodbye to you in the sun room at the Troubador London as I left to busk in the city.
Keep smiling!!
I just remembered when I was hiking at Sinforosa Cannyon (CHihuahua, Mexico), for a long period. It is a Cannyon even bigger and deeper then the Great Colorado´s Cannyon. It is inhabited by semi-nomad natives since hundreds years ago. In winter, the top part of it its frozen, while the deeper part is warm. But in summer the top is less cold, while the bottom is hot like hell. So, the natives live in both upper or deeper part, depending on the season. When it is time to go down, they leave their jackets and blankets under a certain rock or cave, and just dont worry about loosing them. And that is because when they have to go up, they just look under another different certain rock or cave, and they find another 8 or 10 jackets, from other natives that leave them before, in order to be used by another co-native. When I experienced this, I left my gore-tex outfit, and my tent, and all my unuseful things, and didnt worry about weather, because it was substituted by people sharing and care for other people.
Thank you, Derek for bringing that experience to my head, with your good toughts and intentions.
I haven't made millions yet, but I do maintain a site that basically follows these principles.
It works.
Greetings, Derek!
Talk about lovin'-the-world-large! When we share what we've got, everyone benefits! I think your model will be adopted more and more as we shift the paradigm of 'me, me, me' to 'we, we, we'! Thank you for sharing what you got!!
Derek, I have listen to your whilst jogging, follow you tweets, read your webpage, where I find some great suggestions for reading material. Thanks for sharing. Luis
Grandma taught me to keep the secret recipe. It's what makes KFC rich.
But Derek's way seems way more fun.
Thanks, for showing us that the GOOD GUYS DO WIN in the end!
Shaun
I don't have much comment to add. I just want to say, I love this article so much, and I want to make a link to it from my blog.
I once heard someone say: "The secret to living is giving." I think "sharing" fits into this category as well.
Thanks, Derek.
Thanks for an inspiring post. Sharing is a very kind act and I wish we'd do more to make the world even a better place.
Have a fantastic week ahead.
This is one of your best posts. It is so true and you do have a compelling story. So when can we do the documentary.
If you did not read this book, you might love it and the conclusion is supporting what you say.
http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/8034188-where-good-ideas-come-from
Derek, thanks for including me in your inspiring thoughts and ideas. The idea of simply sharing is how live my life both in and out of business. I am not going to make a shameless plug for my new business, but sharing is what it is all about and can make anyone wealthy doing the same thing. Keep doing what your doing everyday. Anyone interested in hearing more ask Derek how to contact me, you will be glad you did.
Thanks Derek
Your story is an endless inspiration and meaningful. I have watch your video and read many time, since we met at TEDxPP, but it is still new whenever I read.
I have learn so much from those talk and story. I forgot to tell you that at our first KhmerTalks event, we shown two video of your talks at TED to Khmer people. They love it.
Keep sharing and best regards,
Rithy
Pay it forward! Way to go Derek. If more successful business owners did that, our economy night be just a little better off. Politicians could also stand to read your post! Congratulations and most importantly, thank you for your gifts!
Thanks Derek. I will share this with some of my friends in the music business.
Brilliant, I have had the same experience and I am going to bookmark this so I can always remember why the things I have done have worked.
Thank You
Lots ot think about.
It's good to learn from people who have experience.
Keeps a balance, happening.
You make it all sound fun and possible. Thanks for taking the time to encourage us and to make us smile.
This is great advice.. some times you just gotta love and give~
Great post! Wish the world have more sharing souls like you. You are probably the 1% of the 1% who still care.
Hi Derek
What a lovely story. You are so generous. Whatever you sew you will reap. Freely you give and freely you will receive. I know you are fulfilled both spiritually and physically. You are a wonderful mentor. Thank You.
Winmil
If you're in the habit of sharing your toys all the time, does that make you a socialist or a socialite? : )
Excellent, as usual Derek. I'm a big fan of allowing your passions to develop into business ideas that continuoulsy evolve. Sharing is a great way to start the process and make connections.
Sharing music in my heart, muster to listen to your Soul and motion to dance with......
Very nice. Sometimes we all have to relearn things
It's so simple and obvious and yet people overlook it. First, I will share this post and then share whatever I've got (maybe it's time for me to start a blog). Great post! Hi from Indonesia! Thanks, Derek!
Rockin!!!! I am building ways to help others as we speak and you have definitely made a difference in my thinking. Thank you...
Thanks Derek. This one really inspires me to go back and look at what I might be able to share for free.
Anne
Thanks for sharing
Cute picture of the dog and little girl sharing an ice cream cone. Picture really tell the story
This is the best advice ever! Thank you, Derek!
Your post is so much in tune with where I am in my life today. My heart has been telling me to serve others more, so I recently began volunteering at a charter school. It's been a month now, and I spend 8 hours/day, 5 days/week. It's such a beautiful experience being able to share my skills and expertise with young children, while also helping to offset some of the expenses of the school by offering my services for free. Even though the feeling of giving is such a huge reward within itself, so many times there is also a tangible reward that manifests at some point down the line, too. Your blog reminds me of Proverb 18:16 in the Bible, that says, "A man's gift makes room for him and brings him before the great." And your story shows just that. Derek, your generosity in sharing your knowledge is such an inspiration to me. My college advisor used to always encourage me to do exactly what you do in your writing and lectures. He'd say, "the more you know, the more you owe." Thanks again!
Great post. What I found most appealing was the youtube link "everything is amazing & nobody is happy" and the link to the post "below average". In particular this sentence: "There is no failure. There can't be, if you only mission was to see what happens" Priceless.
Simply put, the world needs more people like you Derek! Start by giving reminds me of an old saying that says, "true love, never fails!"
Cool. I have always tried to impress upon my students that they should focus on creating value and the money will somehow show up. Glad to know that my theory works in practice.
Great examples, Derek - thank you! You have a keen eye and good heart. I've shared what/when I can - mostly life experience, ideas, great teachings and, sometimes, great products/services that I've used. I'm not sure I've been that helpful though even though it was coming from a caring, co-op mentality/intention. There is a gift in having a keen eye, in seeing what is most helpful, and a gift that when you put stuff up, people find it, like it and want it. So, I go back to my drawing board to think of better, deeper ways of making a positive difference for others. Inspiring blogpost! Thank you!
Opportunity comes in many forms, some have the means to profit, while others find obstacles they cannot overcome. Luck, timing and good fortune play into their hand. So what words can feed humanity? So many profiteers share only words.
What makes you unique is that you "understand" seemingly minor technological fixes that are really game changers, and then you are generous with those insights....
I hope equally generous and insightful people share their findings about sustainable energy and sane banking practices.....hopefully can we apply this generosity to other realms before life on the planet becomes unsustainable.
Even you were writing this post, you applied your business model : ) I think you have a great vision for life, and it is better than "artificial" marketing strategies that surrounds us. Cheers from Turkey : )
Yes thats the way. Help others and they will help you.
Business is all about helping each other.
Cheers!!!
Fantastico! Derek. I love the food bloggers that I follow and have interviewed, try as I might to include them into all the work I do online that gives them a voice and showcases their work. It's a wonderful feeling of foodie friendship and community.
Less is more! You make it sound so simple but it is not. It requires one to be less materialistic and selfish but you managed it and hopefully by example others will too.
I love this posting.
Thanks
Thanks Derek for keeping on sharing your experiences.
Even in Paris, France, someone will share this post.
Cheers
Pierre
Fantastic advice Derek, you really hit the nail for us entrepreneurs. Both on the importance of sharing and giving back!! Really liked reading the co-op and the 232 sand dollars article, it really reminded me of many cases in my corporate and professional life where sharing can just improve not only the lives of many others but also our own.
Hi Derek,
This post really legitimises the way that I have been working for many years now. The problem when dealing with corporate clients, or an employer is always separating the content that is prorprietory and what can be released for public usage.
I have been blogging for more that 10 years, and I know the blog format is perfect for this scenario. Just a couple of months ago I started putting my professional experiences in media, down on a new blog www.thoughtsonmedia.com (Now, one of way too many that I have). For me, it was more of a way of letting off some steam, by writing out my frustrations in dealing with people who could be doing things in a better way. The effects where quite profound, as it shaped the thoughts of people I was already dealing with, rather than having to discuss or educate them.
Whilst I haven't had the multimillion dollar results (yet), I have engaged some key clients at a much deeper level, and have better communicated the premium value of the projects and work I'm involved with. In short it has not only gotten me more work, but the right kind of work.
Kind Regards,
Jomar
Very, very insightful and inspiring!
I will start my blog very soon, sharing all that I've learned.
I'm playing with a somewhat similar idea for a few years already. I am thinking of putting my WHOLE company on github. Everything that we do will be perfectly documented. All our best practices and worflows nicely laid out.
Of course, anyone with some time would be able to teach himself everything that we do and then start competing with us, but I think it would be much more likely that people with similar skill sets will say
"Hey! That's exactly how I would do it! I would improve a minor thing here and there, but apart from that I really want to earn my money in exactly this environment!".
So we would get a) contributions from others where our work flows are below industry standard AND we would get in contact with people who would be able to start working for us right away. If these people call us and say,
"Hey, I have this potential customer but I don't have a big portfolio, yet. Could I do the job using your workflow framework?"
we would get a virtual HR department which drives talent to us.
Haven't put too much serious thought into this idea but somehow I like the concept. It's like: I earn my money by using open source software exclusively (Ubuntu, Python, Django). Why not contribute back and put my whole company into the open?
Yeah! I love that idea. I'm planning on doing that too. -- Derek
Awesome Derek. You never cease to inspire me.
Thanks for sharing that, Derek. I've often felt like I'd never have the right personality to run my own business (successfully, that is). Not greedy enough, not ruthless enough, not conniving enough. I just don't have it in me not to be fair, helpful and generous. Thank for for reminding me that you can still be successful by being a nice guy.
Great post, Derek! Yes, there is so much fulfillment in sharing the thing you are good at. And the bonus, in my mind, is that all this sharing help define one's purpose.
Incredible & inspring story!
See where sharing your sand dollars as a kid got you?
Wow - sharing what you've got and then charging a little bit for it. What a simple concept for success. No guarantees - I'm sure you shared other things that didn't make millions.
It also shows that innovation is never over. People think that they can't compete in today's complicated world, but you've shown that it is very simple.
Just share what you've got. I love it!
Thanks Derek
Wonderful and right to the point, Derek--thank you.
Dear Derek,
I now realize that you have been helping me with my life as a musician since so many years before my first CD on CDBaby. I am constantly reminded of your stories, advice, and knowledge you have shared over the years. I can't thank you enough. Sincerely, Meg
Thank you...
When I can relax into this "business model" not only does it feel good (no pressure) but it "works" in terms of my intention.
It's amazing how one little seed can produce so much fruit.
Be yourself, use common sense, and be of service to others.
You are definitely above average.
Thanks for sharing.
This post reflects your ability to give, your integrity, your sense of justice, and your ability to have a vision of the larger picture affected by your actions.
These character traits are what made CD Baby members like me like and respect you so much...
Thank you for sharing......It makes the world a better place!
We always share because it's a people thing to do so.
Terrific my friend (aka ... "give, and it shall be given unto you .. good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, shall men give to you"). It's biblical actually ... luke 6:38 KJV
Derek, I believe I took advantage of your scanned copyright forms more than a few times. Thank you for doing that!
I get a really good feeling when I read these stories. very inspiring. I have one about last night. I went to the store and when I walked out there was a person standing there asking for change etc. I handed him all the change i had. (12 cents) and thought about it. I felt compelled (it is also very cold this time of year where i live) and gave this person twenty bucks. This act(and I call it act) because there was something else at work here and I believe it is the same spirit that flows through your stories. very inspiring.
Lesson here, "give" and it will come back to you...in good measure." You're such an inspiration. Thanks!
Again, you are very inspiring. I know when I see your name in my inbox I'm going to learn something or I'm going feel really good after readin your post... usually both happens. Thank you.
Kathryn
Dear Derek,
A great story. And CDBaby is still one of the
best ways to get your CD out there.
Thanks again.
All the very best
Ray
1. We already had something that people want:
I had spent 25 years in writng, producing and marketing documentary films and television shows, supplemented by income I earned as a writer, account executive and PR specialist in the Mad Men world of advertising. In 1992, I shared what I had learned in these fields with a pianist named June de Toth. June had spent spent her 25 years as a concert pianist, sharing her God-given talent with an adoring world of classical music audiences. We already had something that people want.
2. We set about finding out how to share this with people who really needed classical music.
We decided the best way to share classical music with even more people would be for June to record her own classical music CD. She had heard that the internationally renowned concert pianist Vladimir Horowitz had left the studios to record at home in this New York City brownstone. I got in touch with the folks at Sony who were producing the Horowitz recordings, and they were good enough to share information with me about the methods and professional equipment they were using. So I made the commitment to buy the best home recording equipment I could afford, and to hire a professional sound engineer. He set up the Senhauser mikes next to June's 9-foot Baldwin concert grand piano, connecting them to an amplifier and a Tascam recording deck. He taught June how to remotely start, voice slate, and stop the recording of each "take" that would ultimagtely be edited into the final tracks of home recorded classical music CDs. She voice slated the takes she wanted, and I took them to a professonal sound studio who helped edit the tracks into a Master.
So far so good.
Next, I set about learning how Masters are made into CDs; how they are duplicated, with cover art, insert, disc face imprint, and tray card; how they are then assigned a UPC (bar code) number, which I purchased, ala Derek Sivers, for $750, and finally, assembled and shrink wrapped and ready to be sold. So there was June, the proud owner of her first CD. Now what?
3. Next, we found out, If it took some effort for us you to share it, we could charge a little something for our efforts, to ensure that this giving can continue.
We would soon find out that selling classical music was aomething like selling hot house flowers in a hurricane. But we kept at it. We phoned and faxed and emailed our way into the back rooms where brick and mortar record stores displayed "big name" classical music artists. We got in there by sharing June's CD with the record stores on a consignment basis. We wouldn't get paid until the record stores got paid.
We charged a minimal amount and collected enough consignment dollars for June de Toth to make another classical music CD. We shared how we had accomplished this with other musicians, who shared their Masters with us, trusting us to marlet their CDs as we had been marketing June's. All in good time, this led to the formation of Eroica Classical Recordings, the web site where more than 200 classical musicians offer more than 400 classical music titles for sale. And thanks to you, Derek Sivers, even thugh you have moved on from CD Baby, it is one of the the primary sources of sphysical and digital sales for Eroica and its artists internationally, in 144 countries and counting.
The final sharing? June and I share our lives together as man and wife and the proud parents of Moira Denise.
Let's give it up for SHARING, folks!
June and Larry
Great ideas -- thanks
I own car care centers in Central VA -- on Thursdays, we give an oil change certificate to anyone who donates $10 to the Central VA Foodbank -- we fight hunger w car care -- love to see that idea spread elsewhere.
Happy Holidays
My wife and I have put up all we have for the promotion of deserving songwriters and musicians. We would not trade the effort for anything in the world.
Hello Derek,
You are very rare, my friend, and I'm really happy to know of you. I can't say KNOW because I don't know you very well, but I do know that you have always been there to help me whenever I wrote you about anything. Obviously the giving has paid off not only in your happiness, Derek, but it's been lucrative for you, and you know what I want everyone to succeed like you, so this can be an even greater country. And I say this you are a GREAT businessman, because you know how to treat your fellow human beings with your kindness and generosity! Again, Happy Thanksgiving to you and your wife, Brother. Clay Wilson aka Man of Clay
Thank you for sharing Derek! Your posts just make sense! Thank you for offering some clarity in what can be a confusing business world.
Give and you shall receive... Mr Godin talks a lot about this in LinchPin - great book!
Please keep these blog posts coming... inspiration.
p.s, you say below average 'smartness' talk about bring modest - haha - you don't build million dollar businesses by being an idiot!
This is the new message for the Occupy Movement. Share whatever you've Got...even if its just 1%. I think the world can be a better place if we just learn to share. Maybe the 99% need to think about what they have ,instead of what they lost? A great idea Derek. Thank you!
I love this Derek! I always appreciate you sharing your success stories and valuable information that I have also tried to apply year after year. I am a CD Baby member for many years and you inspired me to create an advertising / design company for mainly musicians. I would design t-shirts, cd's, dvd's, stickers and other band related promotional items. I was creating ideas for many bands, since they would ask me how my promotional products looked so good and could I create a look for their band. All the banks would not give a business loan to begin, so I put up 3,000 bux of my own and chose a bank that said after 2 years of being in business, they would guarantee a 50,000 business loan. Amazingly I made past the 2 first years, then went into Washington Mutual Bank and they informed me that they were no longer giving out those types of loans and could only issue a 15,000 credit limit on a credit card. I solely chose that bank because they promised a loan after 2 years. I then continued to work from the line of credit and reached the 5 year mark with my advertising company, but had to close the doors in June of 2010 due to the bands not being able to afford any printing or design products when the economy tanked. I am still searching for the next thing and am still focusing on writing songs for tv and film, but I truly enjoyed making things for bands. I always appreciate Derek's great advice and I try to apply it all the time. Who knows, my next idea may be just around the corner, but if the banks don't help small business in this country, I may be stuck having to get in credit card debt trying to help msyelf and other musicians, corporate companies and other small businesses with their design or promotional products. I have reached a dead end all due to financing and not being able to move forward, it truly sux, lol. Now, I will try to write a new song instead of wasting my energy on the financial side of things! Thanks again Derek for great advice all the time!
thank you so much Mr. Derek for sharing this link. learned alot from your lecture already and now i hope i would learn much more from your experience.
Ah Derek, your insight and candor are so refreshing! South Africans are a very 'giving' people by nature, we share and are friendly to almost everyone. It's part of our DNA and people naturally warm to this 'humanness' - you have however done this in every facet of your life and I believe we can all learn some valuable lessons from your 'how to be nice' anecdotes.
Stay well and warm regards from Sunny SA
Very inspiring Derek, also enjoyed the conversations, questions and thoughts that followed in the comments. Thanks!
Actually Derek, I wasn't having the greatest day in actuality. It was more what was going on around me than the way I was actually feeling or seeing things.. These times are AMAZING and can be more so. A really refreshing good laugh watching Conan and who ever that was and I couldn't agree more with what he said re the current generation and these particular times. So I guess its up to one's who appreciate and don't fear. K
Thanks for sharing Derek
Wow Derek... that's a trip that I just said that very same thing to you in my post on your prior comment! Thanks for sharing brother!
Sincerely, MrNDVERSE
thanks - you sent three links and I've come to this one first.... sharing matters.
With my first cd, I'd have liked to sell the songs but by the second, I was happy to give it away ( as free downloads so that it didn't actually cost me to follow this path) - by the third and fourth cds, I realise that 'no-one' much cares either way.
Plenty of reasons for that, no doubt, and no cause for alarm.
Could be 'lipstick on a pig' or 'who?'
I'm relatively free to follow my own musical compass. I have a 'day' job so 'desperate to suceed at any cost' doesn't rear its ugly head.
I did try to put up some free downloads via hostbaby and found that it wasn't free - you needed the premium (paid for) version of Quicktime or some other widget for it to work.
I remind myself that, if I were living, a hundred years ago,
in a village just over the hill, not many would have heard the music - unless it echoed - AND music would have been just for fun and done after a day's work.
I live in a village - of changing dimensions - and sometimes music will echo over the hill.
Sometimes it's you Derek, singing your inspirational posts, on another continent, and gladenning the hearts of those who hear you.
You're a gem ..... it's good to know you exist.
At sixty, I discover another gem of a human, Griff Hamlin and his '4 note blues' which inspires me to the realisation that I've actually got four fingers and that's one for each note .... perhaps I can do more than play chords.
Aint that a wonderful 'thang' ....... life keeps opening up.
I just love everything on these pages. It´s so great to be able to read so much about how to be a somewhat better person.
A great example of sharing is all those websites where experienced recording engineers pass on their tips and techniques that help musicians who want to record their own music themselves. It has certainly helped me that's for sure.
Hi Derek, As you know, I am a musical therapist specialzing in dementia, Music is the finest tool to help people with dementia, AND their families, currently in the UK 750,000 people have dementia, worldwide the figure is approx 36 million, yep 36,000,000.
I have developed a new electronic musical instrument, it will improve the lives of many very sick people and their famlies, and now the wild claim, not my claim but feel free to check it out... learning to play an instrument can add up to 5 years to the life of someone with dementia here are some links http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1293858/pdf/jrsocmed00101-0047.pdf,
http://hirsla.lsh.is/lsh/bitstream/2336/6259/3/music-therepy.pdf
I want to take this all the way to manufacture and distribution to those that need it, how do intend to fund this. I feel certain that the instrument will have a wider appeal both as an eductional tool, and for a bit of fun.
I intend to use the profits from general sales to subsidse these instruments for those that need them. my problem... I need help, both financial to get it off the ground, technical, to help me build and polish it, and of course sales and marketing.
I do not have the funds to do this, and my idea is sitting on a shelf. its a great idea, I am sharing it.... does anyone want to help?
Dear Derek:
In my opinion - What you have described is how people can help each other move forward in their life journey or creativity, etc... what ever they are attempting to do to make the world better for others. Bravo and I hope I and others will share what we learn with others in the same way that you have shared with others ! Thank you for sharing this !
Do the work and the reward will always follow. You are living proof.
It's amazing what sharing can do for you and others. This perspective opens up limitless possibilities. Thanks.
I agree with sharing and giving back the free you get.
It's like all the information that web-forums can give you because other users who are more experienced help you out.
I think it's important to post back or what you can and help someone else who is where you were. You don't have to do this as a job, let the more experienced or paid users do it. But once in a while or when you log on, some links and advice you got or found can help someone else.
It's also important to mention the paying part. Nobody can do everything for free. Our time is worth something too. If someone can trade with you an you're trading fair, that can work too.
Good thoughts Derek, I think it is great to be able to share. The more people share, the better the world can be. It is a great idea. I think that is why I have put my songs online for free download: to share.
Brilliant! There is much to learn from sharing.
I've recently started sharing all i know about music publishing!
Sharing is at the heart of what makes the internet such an amazing place. I think the key is understanding when you should charge for something and when you should just give it away... a tough lesson for me, but I'm learning.
Thanks Derek!
You blog articles have certainly been thought provoking and very helpful.
Derek, Many thanks. I'm using these idea since 2006.
Thanks, Derek~I loved this post.
3 things I have leaned in life thus far:
1. Be modest
2. Have gratitude in your heart and demonstrate it
3. Share what you know
What a healthy way to live!
Also for a local way to share, Share sheds are great as you give away excess and others benefit...or for communities to buy from artists in their own area to help support their local communities and boost the econpmy by starting in each individual area...keep the little guys afloat...
Just some thoughts.
Have an awesome day Derek!
Rachel
Yeah! Check out http://www.skillshare.com/
Thanks for continually inspiring, Derek.
Eric
Right on. You inspire me, brother. (I think I might have been one of those friends who sent a stranger your way).
What a terriffic post from you Derek, and all those who have left comments. I was thinking about this just last night. I was shown by the actions of some people around me, that those who have the least, give the most. It is incredible to sit back and watch the people who are in government housing with only a disability income, give more than they have to those who have even less. They are willing to share the last drop of food with someone, or split their last $10.00 with someone, or even use the last of their gas to help someone in need. God always provides for those who are giving. They are cheerful, they see the needs of others, and are so willing to be there. I truly received a blessing watching this from afar last night. Again I will repeat: Those who have the least, give the most. You are the exception Derek. You have had so much success, and you have given it to even one who comes in contact with you. Very few people who have had the success and wealth you have, are willing to be so generous, kind, and thoughtful to those around them. Thank you again, for sharing so much with all of us. I will take this and see where it leads me. God Bless You, Derek Sivers!
Hi Derek, been thinking about this a lot, thanks for putting it into words. I woke up this morning and just realised that I am already doing this, sharing and giving it away, right now with a project where I am making video, music and voice-over for a property company with no payment, but a promise of a share if things go well. Its something I had been working on for ages, kept it to myself and nothing happened, then I shared, and just as you said, the doors started opening and I find myself filming many incredible million euro plus properties that I never would have access to. All because I gave it away!!!
ps when we met at Midem in Cannes you said you were into surfing, there's a house just perfect for you close to the world class surfing beach at Famara in Lanzarote, Canary Islands: check it out before Bono buys it!!!
video is here: http://www.millionairesrowlanzarote.com/1007v.html
A good moral of this story is not to chase the money. If your intentions are honourable then there's a good chance you may (at some point) see some tangible rewards.
Thanks for sharing how much you made
What makes these ideas special is that they have all been executed - as were the powerful play on words in the procrastination hack or the gift given back to children on the beach in the 232 sand dollars story. Thanks for sharing Derek!
Thanks Derek, this information is priceless.
The small things that make a big difference. Thanks for always putting it in perspective
This sounds very idealistic, but it is great to see that it actually worked for you! That is very inspiring!
There have been cases though where people have shared, and lost everything because others took advantage. I guess it depends on the people around you.. need to find a balance!
(Loveedd the World is Amazing video! Thanks!)
Fantastic advice. Sharing is best...I have a knack for sharing information....just coz I enjoy it. I am currently trying to move that into something more that can impact the world...I am passionate about information and education....your words help to put things into perspective.
Wow, that was one of the best things I read all year. Instead of focusing on greed, focus on giving, until you've gave so much that it takes up your time, and then set a very reasonable price on it. Seems to go hand in hand with the benevolent philosophies of the Henry Ford's and The Rockefellers on trying to make good work enviorments for their workers, good wages, and affordable cars, even if the profit margins shrink. Very Inspirational, glad I read that
.
Very good article. This is exactly how I started my web marketing business. I built and marketed several websites for local small businesses at no charge, to help them out and help ME out by acquiring good references. Before long I was getting calls from their associates for my services. This is truly a sound and rewarding course of action for anyone, business related or not.
What you give to others, you give to yourself.
...and again you inspire me. Thanks Derek.
..........and thank you.........thank you.........thank you...may more people follow your lead
After reading (and absolutely loving) "Anything You Want", I have to say I'm sold on this idea, and in the best of ways. It's such a simple and helpful way to see not only the building of a business, but your own professional path, that it almost sounds like bogus. Except... it's not. On the contrary. Great as always, Derek.
I've tried to live my whole life this way because as far back as I can remember, everything I have, know, do - i.e. the sum of my being here - it's all because some kind folks along the way shared things with me. It has so far made me no millions, but I put greater value in the visual memories I have of lighting a spark in someone's eyes via planting ability in their heads and hands. We own nothing.
Derek,
This makes so much SENSE, it's amazing. One of the best features is that it reinforces a positive way of thinking and doing business.
Thanks for sharing. Get it?
I thought I'd just echo the comments of many. What a better world we'd have if this method were more the norm than the exception.
Thanks! This article just gave me an idea(which is completely worthless for now.) that would make ebooks free while making authors profitable WITHOUT ADS.
This post hits. I find myself often trying to figure out things I could learn and then sell. I also try to think up crazy ideas that might make a lot of money.
Yet I forget, like you said, that in the end it all comes down to sharing something of value to others. Given that we've all got something to contribute, we've all already got our business models and ideas.
Thank you again Derek. Your post helped me realize that I need to get back to sharing.
Another inspirational article. Thanks Derek
Thanks Derek...here's my idea.
I'm working on a start-up and one thing that makes the business model unique is the approach I will be taking with employee "compensation". Many of the jobs will be lower skilled, which typically means higher turnover. And there's evidence that supports that higher wages do not necessarily translate it into higher retention rates or higher productivity. In lower skilled work, retention rates aren't all that important anyway. So, while I can't change the nature of the work, I can change what I give them in exchange. What I'll be looking for in applicants are people who aspire to do bigger things. And that can encompass a lot. Going to school, being better prepared to contribute to community, repairing relationships at home...anything that allows them to go out and GIVE something back. People need support to do that and that's what I'm going to offer them through coaching. Just helping them to realize something they want for themselves. I know full well that this may mean they outgrow us...and that's perfect. Because it better for them and the world.
I developed a business model that can sell a product/service, and rebate 100% of the purchase, or make the monthly financed payments.
Thomas
thomasadair@live.com
I couldn't agree more!
I trained in a surgical specialty. During my training I put most of my notes onto webpages so I could interlink them, and so it was possible to read them on any computer platform.
When I finished my training, I handed all my notes (on a CD) on to the younger trainees I'd worked with. The notes weren't complete but they were a good starting point for some very daunting learning.
I found out recently (10 years later) that most trainees in my country have my notes. I get joy knowing that some hard work is helping others
This was a really nice post and I liked the link about why we should be grateful made me laugh!
This is the best explanation of the concept that is now being called "content marketing" and it's just how the interent works! This kind of sharing also works great in the "real world" but the internet allows it to scale.
Keep sharing!
Brad
Love it - love you - and Martin's idea too. It's love that creates this kind of income. Hope Singapore is treating you well.
Here's to sharing something: Don't let a dog lick your ice-cream.
Hi, strange you should send this email when you did.I come from Rochdale in the UK , said to be the home of the Co-operative movement.
Recently I have decided to stop trying so hard to earn a living from some knowledge I have on arranging a mortgage and instead try sharing my knowledge on getting the best mortgage with others through a website I am building.A friend recently read it and said people will want to know how you are earning money from it. I answered, I won't but if they decide they need me to do it for them I will of course need to charge a little.
Only when your email arrived did I see my idea as any kind of Co-op and maybe I will add a little to the site to explain what I am doing as a kind of co-op.
Cheers
Kevin
What an amazing story!
As per the previous post I am also from this area in England where Co-op officially began. However I think it always been human nature to share skills within a community, its just never in a point in time as our community been quite so GLOBAL. What an opportunity we have to offer a little support to so many with our unique individual skills......the possibilities are truly endless......
Thank you Derek for reminding us!
It's the best way to be in the world. What about trading or barter, is trading also considered a good biz plan?
Best regards!
Good advise... let's see what I've got
Oh my. This should really be a MUST-READ for everyone that wants to be an entreprenuer. it seems like simple advice, but it's truly profound. Thanks so so much for sharing Derek!
Great stuff - thanks for sharing!
There are so many ways we can make the world a happier place, from giving oranges to the street musicians when you've spent all your cash at the Farmers' Market, to just smiling. I smile so much I'm sure people think I'm simple-minded but who cares.
Your story reminds me of how my Dad would prime the pump by pouring water in the well so water could flow again.
I'm gobsmacked. And madly inspired. Thanks for this Derek
There were times when I thought I´ve got nothing unique to share. But then I looked closer to what others did and realized that everyone has something very unique to share and that it´s often hidden under the veil of the ordinary life.
Great post, I love it!
My little story on giving:
I am a painter (amongst many other things). Although I was learning and improving for years and years, compared to the very best I always felt that I didn´t have much to give. I had to learn so much still, there was so much to absorb, there was no time to give anything away, anyway.
Last week I came across an internet forum which is packed with thousands of people who upload their paintings to show them off. First I did not like it at all. "Loosers! Amateurs!", I heard the voice in my head and immediately distanced myself from them. What was worse, they were all painting in a certain niche that I had considered to be my niche since early on. I was supposed to be there. The best. The only one. Me. Nobody else.
Then it hit me.
Their paintings could have been mine when I was 13 years old. Their paintings looked almost the same as my early paintings. Who were these people? I thought. Could it be possible that not only their paintings, but also the people were a little bit like me back then, when I was a kid? What if they needed somebody, somebody to help them improve as I had needed somebody so badly back then? All those years I had plugged away in isolation, trying desperately to improve and grow, looking so badly for someone who would be able to understand, who would be there for me, and if it only were for one moment. But I never had the mentor I needed so badly.
I made it anyway, alone, braking through walls, crashing barriers. Sticking it through against all odds. Working my ass off.
Or didn´t I?
What if I would show up and teach these artists all I had ever learned? Giving it all away, with no restriction whatsoever. Maybe my professional colleagues wouldn´t value it that much. But these guys in the forum that look like me a long time ago?
When I was that kid I would have been more than happy if I had had someone like me (the older me), being able to teach (the younger me) what I know now. What if they were in a similar position? Some of them, maybe only one? Wouldn´t one be enough?
I think that there are a lot of people who learned early on to hide the very thing that makes them special, when they have to protect themselves from a family or environment that is stuck in a mindset of scarcity, taking and absorbing and sucking and grasping all they can get their dirty hands on, just to possess it and destroy it along the way, with no regret of their actions or even pleased of themselves, their stupid little ego.
Growing up in a mindset of scarcity and then getting rid of it may take a long time for some, for me I guess.
I can feel how it should be, can see it already quite clearly. I have to fill in the details. Have to fill in the blanks. I need lots more of practice. And sometimes it scares the shit out of me. It would be easy to fall back into protection mode, holding back, scared and frightened somebody might be around the corner, wanting to steal from me. Sometimes it is hard to open up, to embrace and to cooperate, instead of distancing and competing. But I guess it is the only way.
Thank you, Derek, for sharing the good way, the way that works. You are an inspiration.
Share what we know and people will share what we need. Thanks for the great reminder, great post!
Thank you for sharing your idea based on your great experience
Now in Tokyo, a lot of social and tech entrepreneur are coming up with the mind like you have. I think they will be happy to hear your story directly from you as a pioneer!
Please let me know when you come to Japan :-D
Let's keep in touch!
Harmony,
Ryuta
Namaste,
I am doing it exactly what you suggest and that "sharing whatever I have". Since 1998, I have been sharing only positive news about India and about Indians. It all started with 13 email ID's and now reached to something like 60,000 emails ID's. I am still doing this task in free as I firmly believe "If anyone has to become unbiased? He/she has to go through the process of learn, unlearn & relearn. In India, many Indians call themselves as learned and many are unlearned from birth. Both are biased. And to help them to become unbiased? I share something or other daily. I used platforms like email, Facebook, LinkedIn and Google+. I never thought of earning and/or I never saw an opportunity for earning. I also know lot of people have benefited out of this and I have collected more than 10,000++ replies who wrote to me personally how they got benefit.
This is a wonderful, enchanting & inspirational article. God bless you. God bless your parents. God bless the living planet.
Sincerely I remain,
Phadke S. N.
City: Pune
State: Maharashtra
Country: India/Hindustan
Everybody is talking about giving away things and the idea of sharing. Open Source software, Creative Commons music, free blogging and Youtube... that's a strong tendency and I love it. However my conclusion from your stories is actually just the contrary: not to be afraid of charging reasonable amounts for your commitment!
"Sharing is caring" as they say.
I think people are willing to reciprocate if they see that you're sincere in helping them out without asking for any reward.
I find that every time a friend gives me a gift for Christmas, I have an urge to also give them a gift.
Goodwill is an awesome business model. It's more people-oriented. That's just what we need.
One has to first exhale to be enable to inhale.
You cannot receive, unless you give. The more you give, the more you receive.
You are really enspiring. More Dereks for the world, please!
How about some sharing buttons?
I'm tweeting now.
Sharing enriches your knowledge and wealth. Hence sharing is always Good. Your sharing attitude is very Good inspiration.
Derek: Love your clear writing style. I'm guessing it springs from your clarity of thought and uncluttered mind.
Back in the 1990s i saw that there was a vast new universe opening up and that there must be a place in it for me, somehow, some way. I wracked my brains to figure out how I could make a living, not millions, just pay the mortgage, etc. In the end I sort of came up empty and didn't think I had anything of value to offer.
What I did not see was that I was also very isolated and cut off from people. I did not know it was a problem at the time.
You, on the other hand, were the right person, in the right place, at the right time. I'm guessing you were in the midst of a very dynamic, vibrant network of family, friends, artists, fans, and friends you just hadn't met yet, with your big open heart, loving life.
You were going about doing what you had to do to get your music produced and were willing to do whatever was needed to get that done. And yes, you initially shared it with friends because you knew how much work it would save them.
The Internet was like a new frontier and you are a natural trailblazer. You cut a path through the wilderness, cleared the land, so others could prosper.
I'm so grateful you are still out front, pointing the way.
Hugs, Leda Rose
Thank you for sharing!
Thanks for the great insight. We should share a lot more than we're doing now.
This is the "social" in social media, explained better than any dictionary or glossary will ever do it.
There's always someone who needs help, and the people who are willing to help rather than sell them something will always be on the road to success. And they'll be taking other people with them.
Thanks yet again, Derek.
Hi Derek,
Kind of new in this internet business, but enjoy it already. We have a lot in common and share a lot of ideas. Totally agree on your give and take theory, which is also nicely described in the book: The Psychology Influence of Persuasion. Giving a lot and taking a little bit is where my website Management Reading is about too. In the future I Hope to inspire as many readers as you do daily.
Good luck to you!
Tjalling
Thanks for sharing these little gems =)
Thanks for sharing your thoughts on sharing, because I was initially confused about what I was doing.
When I built my aggregation site, it started with the intention to serve the community. I didn't even know how it was going to evolve, but I did it because it felt like there was a gap between the current ones that's out there and the one that people should have. I was often asked, "so what's your business model?" and I would go, "What business model?"
I'm so glad I'm not the only one.
Fantastic post - thank you for *sharing*!
Hi Derek,
I believe this is a good idea.
I think there is a certain part that has to be kept. It's more like an energetic thing, if you will. As far as I see it, you have a certain inertia that's yours and in practice invisible to the outside world. However, it manifests in the things you do and share.
Holding something and cherishing it (for a long enough time) seems to spawn things worthwhile sharing.
Interaction exchanges something and creates something new. You could say that this is the basis of the "win-win" mindset. (Not just I scratch your back you scratch mine, though.)
best wishes from Brazil,
pk
Share certain things but you still charged for your business....gotta make money somehow! But I agree! I give out tons of free advice on my blog for musicians www.truetalentmgmt.wordpress.com and I always get business from it
Thanks for sharing secret of success .
This is one of my favorite posts ever. Thanks for everything, Derek.
"Pass it on!" We did a free giveaway with Kindle Select last month and gave away 14,000 books--the first Holocaust book to go viral!--and we did it to share a message of love, not to make money. However, ever since the sales have continued to increase, the reviews are great and people are being moved by the 716th woman in Auschwitz's amazing story.
Awesome Derek - this is probably the best blog post I've read all year. Do you still play music? Where in Singapore are you playing? (I live there). Can't' wait to read more of your blog!
Interesting points you raise.
I would also add that since you started off as sharing your knowledge for free, you built up some natural trust from your future clients who would then be more than happy to pay a reasonable fee for your services.
Will certainly be looking into sharing my knowledge and see where it gets me!
Writing the first 'about' post for the new blog, Link. Share. Grow., and found this post. So inspiring, I LOVE IT!
I asked for some stories of successes through sharing here, http://www.linkedin.com/answers/marketing-sales/advertising-promotion/guerrilla-marketing/MAR_ADP_GUM/938746-2453416
I'd love some of the stories everyone has left here, if anyone is inclined to visit the link and post!
working on it. great perspective, its very refreshing.
I think Derek's principles are solid, without a doubt. I do suggest that content and timing are critical to making a success, as well as an appetite for calculated risk and the willingness to work very, very hard for a while. The UPC example I read as sharing something that had become very desirable in 1996, with the rising tide of independent recording artists, and that there was a "scarcity of willingness". As an artist whose day jobs have been in large, daunting bureaucracies, I learned to master processes and not be intimidated by bureaucratic norms & behavior, public or private sector. Most artists and humanists generally get spooked by red tape and The Man...so here comes this cool guy who has done the homework, figured it out, walks your walk, and offers this must-have service. Rarity or even uniqueness of content plays a big role, and you gotta know where you are in the wave... As usual, very thought-provoking!!
Derek. You may get the chance to meet me. I will alter your aspirations to a small extent but I will change your life.
Dear Derek Sivers, Thanks a lot
This is exactly what I'm thinking about, and what I'm working on it now.
I feel like ... "Yes, I can make it!"
Thanks again, Derek! See you sometime
Interesting about finding something people hold valuable.
We came up with an idea revolving around footfall and lead generation for shops.
We found once we actually gave this to stores they either a) did nothing with it or b) treated us like we were con artists!
Essentially they didn't believe we could do it and so thought it must be a trick.
So yes, find something they hold valuable, but then market it in the correct way too.