Missed Connections

Blog Challenge "100 posts in 100 days" Post #11

In the past, I've had a bad habit of starting conversations without what I call a "warm-up." While this applies more to a corporate setting, I think it probably also applies to personal emails, instant messages, texts.

Usually, if you are starting a conversation via text, IM, email its because you want or need something. I used to come right out and ask for what I needed or wanted. I've learned that by doing that, I've missed out on opportunities to build better relationships.

Engaging in better communication is low hanging fruit to be honest because you're going to reach out to the said person regardless of whether you include a "warm-up" or ask them questions or offer them something in return so why not just capitalize on the chance to get to know them a little better?

Here's a "real world" example for you!

(Old me) "Hey do you by chance have the link to that report you referenced on our call this morning?"
(New me) "Hey, it was great to sync up on today's call, it sounds like you are killing it in the new role, do you love it so far? When you get a minute, could you shoot me over the link to the report you referenced? If I don't talk to you before Friday, have an awesome weekend!"

So it took me about 1 minute longer to transform my generic, impersonal message into something real and specific, not to mention thoughtful. Sure, there are many ways you could achieve this same outcome this just happened to be the first one I came across in my inbox.

I didn't realize what a difference the extra minute of effort would make, but I can assure you, it is well worth it! We are hard-wired for connection, so my advice is to keep your eye out for the chance to connect with others!