With the rise of social media, a compelling addiction to our devices, and a culture of privacy, has the art of building personal relationships diminished? Honestly, I am not sure I know the answer. However, I do believe that the most meaningful, trusting, and helpful business relationships will grow out of consistent face-to-face verbal interactions with one another.
If you are struggling to get the results you desire, feeling disconnected from the organization where you work, or simply want to build your business, this blog is for you.
A few years ago the progression of connecting was revealed to me. There are four steps to this progression that I want to share with you.
Connection Progression
- Just Connect
The first step is simply to go connect with people. This is not done randomly, but rather with purpose. Make a list of people that fit into these three categories:
Once you have made this list, write a goal for yourself and make a plan.
Goal Example: I will contact and meet with a minimum of three different people once-a-month for the next six months.
- Connect to Help Me
The next step to the connection progression is directly related to the first step. Inherent to building these relationships is a self-focused need of fulfilling a responsibility, feeling part of an organization, or getting more clients. There is nothing wrong with this, and it is necessary. Thus, as you build these relationships, be mindful of how these relationships might help you.
- Connect to Help Another
As you move through the connection progression, a richer opportunity is available if you are willing. As you are building these relationships, you have the opportunity to make a connection to actually help the other person get what they need. This moves you from self-focused to other-focused. Thus, ask thoughtful questions and listen carefully to hear how you can support this other person.
- Connect to Help Others Help Others
The final step that emerges, after building numerous relationships, is the chance to connect people together to help each other. Personally, this is one of the most satisfying experiences. This is simply listening for the needs of others, keeping in mind your network of people, and extending the invitation for the person to meet this other person. This is actually a critical and strategic leadership skill for individuals who are influencing broader scopes of people.
If you want to get better results, understand your organization even better, or build your business, go start connecting. This always starts with reaching out to schedule time to meet.
