Creating Uncommon Connections

As we all continue to return to the office and other face-to-face environments, many people have realized that they are out of practice with connecting with people. To share the power of making uncommon connections, we’re turning to the network expert. On this career development episode of The Digital Enterprise Society podcast, Thom Singer is taking over the microphone for a solo episode about building your network (and why it even matters). He shares how to more effectively interact with people, why you interact with people, and how, if you do, it will set you up for promotions, new jobs, and to have more fun and success in your career and in your life.    On today’s podcast, you will learn: Why do interpersonal relationships matter? People do business with people they know, like and trust.  Consider who you prefer to do business with- the people you know, like and trust.  Mutual trust sets the foundation for accomplishing more in your work.  Knowing more people makes it easier to answer the tough questions.  Your expanded network wants to see you succeed.  Connections strengthen your visibility as well as that of your company.    Thinking beyond the elevator pitch Although good in theory, rarely does the elevator pitch get the results we think it will.  First impressions have less to do with what you tell others about you and more to do with what you ask them about themselves.  Ask questions, be curious and encourage talking.  People who do the talking tend to like the person that is listening to them.  Learning more about others gives you the opportunity for follow up.  Meeting someone you have met once does not make them part of your network.    Creating uncommon connections Uncommon connections are the ones that you have with only a handful of people.  Networking is so much more than stale cheese and cheap wine.  Networking is the creation of long-term and mutually beneficial relationships between two or more people where everyone involved finds more success because of it.  You cannot have an uncommon connection with everyone.    Why should you strengthen your network?  Shared experiences build stronger relationships.  By knowing who you are and what you have to offer, you can confidently offer it to others. Introverts tend to have more successful networks because they are less inclined to talk about themselves.    How to strengthen your network Minimize distractions by putting your phone away.  Focus on face-to-face interactions whenever they are presented.  Uncover shared commonalities by asking questions and expressing curiosity.  Focus on the few people that you are connecting with rather than the entire group- think quality over quantity.    Continue the conversation with us within the Digital Enterprise Society Community at www.DigitalEnterpriseSociety.org.   Digital Download: Virtual Round-Table Series   Shareables: [2:10] “When we get back to basics and connect more with others, we’re going to find more success.” — Thom Singer  [8:40] “Meeting someone once does not make them part of your network.” — Thom Singer  [9:20] “If you want to make uncommon connections, you have to stand out from the crowd.” — Thom Singer  [29:20] “If you invest in people, it will impact every single area of your life.” — Thom Singer