Farmers know what most people forget. Choose the right soil and fertilize appropriately when planting certain seed to reap the best results. 2 Corinthians 9:6 is a favorite verse to describe what one reaps NOW is what will be sown in the next NOW moment.
How though does one know if the seed they want to plant NOW will be accepted by the soil? How about we keep it simple? Firstly hook the audience, then having learned what is important to the audience, drop that salt.
A hook would be anything strong and captivating to grab the attention of an intended listener. Like grabbing the horse by the rains and tugging at that bit. Then salt their perspective with a statement, question or story. Asking questions is a fantastic and simple way to keep the audience engaged.
There are a few simple steps to complete, when able, prior to beginning the process of planting value needed in another. When there is time taking a moment NOW to follow these steps will over time increase one’s ability to use these skills without awkwardness in every NOW moment.
1. Describe the audience
2. As best able in knowing the audience list their needs, and desires as relevant to what is going to be shared.
3. Simply define the idea, product or service and the opportunity it represents to the audience
4. Define how or why what is shared will best benefit the audience. There are a lot of salt brands why would this one be best?
5. List any concerns, fears or excuses that may arise when sharing
6. Prioritize the concerns, fears, or any reasons the audience may have to object.
7. List a solution to overcome each concern, each fear, or excuse.
Following these steps not only enforces the value being shared but also allow the audience to hear. Matthew 25:40 says, “…whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.”
Always seek to honor the audience by understanding their wants and needs. Present ideas, products or services in such a way that not only motivate the audience toward purchase or action NOW but fostering a situation as shared in Matthew 25:21.
Offering an opportunity to the audience inspiring an action of growth doubling the gift given rather than hiding the gift until the master returns. NOW each moment gifted by God one is able to double the gift given rather than hiding away the gift presented.
Any fool can see value when presented, Matthew 25:24. It takes more than cool tricks and a colorful presentation to create life changing value that lasts beyond NOW.