What Is The “And Then Some” Principle?
ByHave you ever heard of the “and then some principle”? Are there people who work with or for you whose attitude is: “Don’t do too much. Just do what you get paid for and no more”?
When I was in college, I worked part-time at a leather bag manufacturing company. Since all the employees knew I was a short term worker, I was frequently told not to work too hard. They knew they would still be there after I left and did not want a new standard set.
Would you agree many workers need and want more money to satisfy a comfortable lifestyle? Do you know people who want a promotion? What can be done to help people acquire the money and promotions they say they want?
The “and then some principle” says that you do what you are paid to do “and then some”.
The next time you call your favorite store, notice the tone of voice of the person who answers the phone. Observe how long it takes you to get a solution to your challenge.
Hear the words the person uses to communicate with you. Listen for courtesy, concern, and enthusiasm – that’s the “and then some principle”. Then focus on your telephone skills. If someone were evaluating your telephone competence, would they recommend that you be given a raise or a promotion?
Your voice has the power to turn people on or off. Would your voice cause others to want what you have to offer? There are three basic voice tones you can choose when conversing. You can use a soft voice, your normal voice, or a command voice. Each is acceptable. The skill is knowing what voice is appropriate for the situation. For example; if a person was about to run in front of a car, you would use your command voice to save their life.
When you listen to a speaker, watch television, or go to a movie, notice the power the voice has in creating an impact on you. Listen to hear the “and then some principle”.
Recall the voices from your past. Whose voices do you remember? How did you feel when you listened to them: comfortable or uncomfortable?
Decide now to develop your voice to create a climate of acceptance. Refuse to yell or scream at anyone. Soften your voice whenever another person is upset or angry.
For the next week invest in improving your voice and the, watch what happens!
“I now believe in the “and then some principle” by doing more!”
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