Why Do People Focus Solely on My Income Instead of Asking About My Unique Offerings?

In today's world, it's common to encounter individuals who prioritize the amount you make over the unique value you bring to the table. This behavior can be puzzling and frustrating, especially when you present a professional service or product that addresses real needs. Let's explore the reasons behind this phenomenon and provide guidance on how to navigate such situations for a more positive outcome.

The Nature of Income Focus

When asked about your income or how much you make, where do you think the question comes from? Is it a genuine concern from friends or acquaintances, or a red flag that could signal something else? It's important to understand the context and the potential implications of such inquiries.

Online Interactions vs. In Real Life

Online Interactions: When you encounter someone asking such questions online, especially about your financial status, be cautious. These individuals might be scammers who are trying to get preliminary information to decide their next steps. Asking about your income is just the first step in their scheme, and a 20 or 100 gift card is likely their next request. If you suspect such intentions, it's best to avoid engaging further.

In Real Life Interactions: In person, if someone asks how much you make, it might be out of genuine curiosity. However, it’s common for people to focus on the monetary aspect due to a fixed mindset where value is often equated with a dollar figure. Instead, they might want to use your services if they find them worth the price. In this case, engage with a transactional mindset and be prepared to discuss prices if needed.

The Root of Income Focus

Much of this behavior stems from socio-economic factors and a materialistic mindset. Many people today are taught to prioritize jobs with the highest monetary rewards. This conditioning can make them dismiss the intrinsic value of unique offerings or services, focusing solely on the financial gain. This mindset is often bolstered by society's emphasis on wealth as a status symbol.

Understanding the Intent Behind the Question

The question 'What do you do for work?' is less about the income and more about your professional identity. In contrast, 'How much do you make?' is purely transactional. Men and women might approach you with different questions, often based on their understanding of your potential value. Men might estimate your income based on your job, while women might not have a clear understanding of the value each job offers.

Educating Ourselves and Others

To counteract this mindset, we must embrace a more holistic view of our work and services. Your role as a professional is not just to communicate the price but to highlight the unique value you offer. This means emphasizing the benefits and solutions your service or product provides, going beyond just monetary figures.

It's common in today's society to prioritize material wealth and status. Therefore, if someone asks about your income, it may stem from a desire to gauge your status. However, this doesn't mean that genuine curiosity is entirely absent. There are individuals who are truly interested in understanding how others achieve success and the value they offer. These people are rare, but they are the ones who are worth engaging with.

Navigating Intrusive Questions

Dealing with intrusive questions can be challenging, but it's important to maintain your worth and confidence. Here are some steps to follow when faced with such inquiries:

Stay Confident: Believe in the value you offer and communicate it effectively. Redirect the Conversation: If someone asks only about your income, gently redirect the conversation to discuss the unique benefits and solutions your service or product provides. Set Boundaries: Politely but firmly explain that you prefer not to discuss personal financial details unless it is relevant to the service you are offering. Move On: If the person continues to pry, it might be best to politely excuse yourself or change the subject. Positively Engage: Focus on interacting with people who show genuine interest in your work and unique offerings.

Conclusion

Understanding and navigating the income focus issue requires a shift in perspective. Instead of focusing solely on the dollar amount, emphasize the unique value you bring to your services or products. This not only protects you from potential scams but also positions you as a valuable asset to those who truly appreciate what you offer. By staying confident, setting boundaries, and engaging positively, you can maintain a healthy professional image and avoid wasting time with intrusive questions.