Many people are misled when it comes to the meaning of connection. Some might think communicating on every platform of social media and having hundreds of Facebook friends is a connection. Nothing could be farther from the truth.
Communication is giving or receiving information. Connection is the opportunity to build a relationship with somebody.
Today I will focus on business connection and its importance. This is especially valuable in these unpredictable times.
The value of networking
We can network with hundreds of people, but if we fail to follow up, that time will be wasted. Networking with other businesspeople and exchanging ideas is essential to building a successful business. You have to take immediate action after connecting with somebody.
Send a thank you card or information they might appreciate. You can follow up on their preferred social media, or meet in person.
I usually invite people for coffee or lunch. Very soon you would be able to discover things you have in common and how you can support each other. Don’t wait for the other person to take the lead.
Here are a couple examples of follow-up emails I often send:
“It was great meeting you last night. Thank you for your helpful marketing tips.”
“I would love to get to know you better and see how I might be able to support you. Want to get together for coffee in the next couple of weeks?”
Everyone wants to feel appreciated
During the meetings you have established, write down what is important to this particular person. Do they mention a hobby or interest you share? If they travel often, ask them about their trip.
When you do this, the person will feel remembered and heard.
Is someone celebrating a birthday? Reach out. Did they just get their dream job or start a business? Congratulate them.
Express gratitude
Think about all the people, family, friends, neighbours and clients who supported you in your personal and business life. Pick a few people who’ve made the biggest impact on your career. Have you expressed how grateful you are to know them?
I have been very fortunate to be able to share my articles, published by the Peak, with the local community and beyond.
Are you a curious person?
Research done on curiosity shows that curious people excel far better in business ventures than their non-curious colleagues. Curiosity is linked to psychological, physical and emotional health.
Research shows that it may also play a critical role in our social relationships. It makes sense that curious people may have an easier time bonding with a diverse range of people, simply because they are interested in learning about what people from different walks of life have to offer.
With each relationship you develop, ask yourself: What is there to be learned? And, how can I support this person's business and life?
Remember, build those relationships today for a better tomorrow.
Ranka Burzan owns a professional organizing company based in the qathet region and has written several books on reducing clutter and becoming more organized. For information, go to solutionsorganizing.com.
