The Impact of Kindness on Building Relationships with V.J. Smith

Relationships are a fundamental aspect of human life. Whether personal or professional, they significantly determine an individual's happiness, success, and fulfillment. While grand gestures may seem impressive in building relationships, it is often the little things that make a lasting impact. In this episode, Steve talks with V.J. Smith, President of Life’s Great Moments as well as a professional speaker who has spoken to businesses, organizations, and schools throughout the United States and Canada. He is also the author of the bestselling book, The Richest Man in Town, which details V.J.'s relationship with a man who ran a cash register at a local Walmart.  Geared toward relationship building, customer service, and the importance of setting goals, V.J. talks with Steve about what inspired him to write his book, the influences behind V.J.'s relationship outlook, and how a handwritten note can make a huge difference in someone's life.   Key Takeaways [02:16] - An overview of V.J.'s career and personal background. [03:43] - What inspired V.J. to write the book, The Richest Man in Town. [05:36] - What's so special about the Walmart cashier that draws people's attention? [11:25] - The influences behind V.J.'s relationship outlook. [16:15] - What compelled V.J. to write a letter to Walmart regarding their cashier, Marty. [19:43] - How a handwritten note can make a huge difference in someone's life. [23:30] - Other people V.J. knows who hold similar values to Marty. [29:24] - An example of how V.J. shows curiosity about other people. [37:32] - Why V.J. finds beauty in handwritten letters.   Quotes [20:44] - "The reason I keep coming back to the handwritten note, the same thing I tell young people, is that in your handwriting, we see your heart, it becomes meaningful, and it's kept." ~ V.J. Smith [28:22] - "I made it a point to send things to people undergoing tough situations. It's always in a blank envelope, and there's no trail back to me." ~ V.J. Smith [31:46] - "People like to be asked about themselves. They'd like to share if we allow them to share. And you learn so much about someone, not by talking, but by listening." ~ V.J. Smith   Links  V.J. Smith on LinkedIn The Richest Man in Town The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People   Connect with our hosts Steve on LinkedIn Buckingham Strategic Partners   Subscribe and stay in touch Apple Podcasts Spotify Steve on LinkedIn Follow Buckingham Strategic Partners on Twitter   Disclosure For informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as specific investment, accounting, legal, or tax advice. Certain information is based upon third party data which may become outdated or otherwise superseded without notice. Third party information is deemed to be reliable, but its accuracy and completeness cannot be guaranteed. Some analysis presented is based off current economic information and may become outdated or irrelevant without notice. Individuals should speak with their qualified financial professional based on his or her unique circumstances. Neither the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) nor any other federal or state agency have approved, determined the accuracy, or confirmed the adequacy of this podcast. © 2022 Buckingham Wealth Partners, LLC. Buckingham Strategic Wealth, LLC and Buckingham Strategic Partners, LLC (collectively, Buckingham Wealth Partners)