There is an old saying in business: “It is not what you know, it is who you know.” I think there is an even better version for a community like Des Moines: It is not just who knows you—it is what they know you stand for.

That is where community before commerce comes in.

As business owners and leaders, it is easy to get caught up in the transaction. We attend an event hoping to meet a customer. We join a committee looking for a connection. We volunteer because we think it might lead to a referral.

There is nothing wrong with growing your business. That is what we are all trying to do.

But something powerful happens when we flip the order.

Serve first. Sell second.

When you invest your time, talent and energy into Des Moines, people begin to see more than your business card. They see your character. They see your commitment. They see that you are willing to roll up your sleeves and help make our community better.

And that builds something advertising cannot buy: trust.

Think about the businesses you naturally recommend. Chances are, you know something about the people behind those businesses. Maybe they volunteered at an event. Maybe they helped another business owner. Maybe they served on a board or showed up when the community needed them.

You trust them.

That trust becomes a brand.

Personal Development Tip: Show Up

Choose one community activity this month that has nothing to do with making a sale. Volunteer. Attend a neighborhood event. Help another business owner. Serve on a committee. Introduce two people who could benefit from knowing each other.

The goal is not to collect business cards.

The goal is to build relationships and make an impact.

You may be surprised how much your own perspective grows when you spend time serving others.

Business Development Tip: Become Known for Something Good

Ask yourself: “What do I want my business to be known for in Des Moines?”

Then find a way to demonstrate it through community involvement.

If you want to be known for leadership, lead. If you want to be known for supporting small businesses, support them. If you want to be known for generosity, give your time. If you want to be known as someone who connects people, start making introductions.

Your community involvement should reinforce your brand—not because you are promoting yourself, but because you are living your values publicly.

And here is the beautiful part: when you consistently serve, people remember.

They remember who showed up.

They remember who helped.

They remember who cared.

Your Call to Action

This week, do not ask, “What can Des Moines do for my business?”

Ask, “What can I do for Des Moines?”

Find one opportunity to serve, support or connect someone in our community. Then do it without expecting anything in return.

Because when we put community before commerce, something remarkable happens.

We build a stronger Des Moines—and along the way, we build stronger businesses, stronger relationships and stronger brands.

Serve your community. Build trust. Grow your brand.

That is the Jimmy Tip. 👍

Cheers,

Jimmy