Sharing of Knowledge - Paying it Forward

I have always been one to share my knowledge freely.  Without charge.  I field numerous questions, each week, via my website, my Facebook page for The Purple Pinkie and email.  I have always answered every question and helped anyone who asked for it.  It's just my nature.

I have been burned, though.  I have had people use me for my knowledge, then cut me down when they talk about me to others.  I have had people take what they learned and try to use it to better their business and try to take from my business by cutting their prices.  Why would you work for less money?  It still takes the same amount of time, effort and product.  Why sell yourself short?

I have encountered quite a few back stabbers through the years.  They are gone now.  Now, since they no longer have me to feed off of, what they do is stalk my website and FB Page and copy every single thing that we do from color schemes to designs.  They even use the same "Buzz" words that we use.  They wouldn't know an original idea if it bit them in the face.  They use all of this to better themselves and belittle us. 

Instead of forging ahead and making a mark for themselves, they prefer to be chameleons.  They are too damn lazy to take a class.  Attend an industry show.  Do research on their own.  Hell, they don't even try to network.  All they know how to do is imitate.  They say imitation is the best form of flattery.  Well, it gets to the point where it is almost down right repulsive.

I have no problem with most of this.  What I do have a problem with is the fact that there is no gratefulness.  I will not allow this to happen again.

When I think of the few that used me, I will try to not get mad and try to remember all of the people who I have helped in ten years.  I remember these people and their comments.  These are just a few I've compiled.  I actually got tired of cutting and pasting.

I was proud of myself when I found out you used it too, I figured I made a good choice since I have always looked up to you and respected how you conduct your business. –AA

Just wanted to stop and say thank you for everything and answering all my questions I am getting more clients now everyone loves the glitter toes and the ManiQ !! – YG

I just wanted to get back with you and Thank you so much for your help regarding my service speed.  Thank you so much again for everything you have done for me! – AS

Thank you so much!! Your work is so beautiful! I appreciate the share very helpful! – KU

You always are there to help!  I can’t begin to thank you enough for all your advice and direction!  I have found all of your hints and tips have always worked when I tried them. I cant begin to tell you thank you enough!!!!! You are such an inspiration- you have been like my un-official mentor for so many things!  – NK

As always, you are awesome! Thank you so much for taking the time to send me this! I appreciate it so much!  I wanted to tell you thank you for all your help and advice. – LG

Thank you so much for your advice. You've helped me before and I really appreciate it! – TI

You amaze me! Thank you so much for all your great wisdom! You're the best. Truly, I have learned more from you than in nail school – LC

Thanks for answering my questions I so appreciate it   Your the best thank you for sharing. – MC

Thanks so much for always be willing to help! You rock! – CC

Thanks Rhonda! I appreciate your call and help and time! – CK

Rhonda, you are always such a great help, thanks. – MT

We have never met but I have always been a big fan of your work and we have chatted here and there.  You are such a doll and I so appreciate your guidance! – SG

Thanks for all your help! – ES

You have lifted my spirits so many times and i have never taken the time to say thank you! – CH

I just wanted to say Thank you. Without all your help I would not of finished the competition.  Thank you for helping me reach one of my goals. – CR

Rhonda, thank you very much. I appreciate when tech's share their talents with others. – JC

I just wanted to say thanks again for giving me info on your pedi platform.  You have such great ideas and you are so nice to share them.  Most of the nail techs around here are very private and competitive, and not as willing to share.  Thank You! – KR

You are FANTASTIC thank you so much!  You just made many of my clients very happy with the Magic Manicure as I too use YN products! – TG