12 Ways to Become a Better Leadership Connector

If you've followed my writings for a while, you can tell that I'm a huge proponent of strategic partnerships , mentorships , the Ubuntu philosophy , and lifting as you climb . Each of these areas puts foremost importance on people, and one of the top leadership qualities that I value in others is their ability to be effective leadership connectors. A leadership connector is a person who builds relationships and connects people to create opportunities for collaboration. They are talented at creating and maintaining networks of contacts, and they use these connections to help others achieve their goals. Leadership connectors are also effective collaborators, working well with others to achieve a common goal.

Pursuing excellence has never been more important than it is now as we face an increasingly competitive world where new technologies are changing how businesses must operate every day. But even with all of this change, there remain some constant basics that will help you stay on top! In this article, I'd like to share for those people who have similar interests in building cultures centered around people, partnerships, and collaborative working relationships just twelve (12) key elements that need modeling by leaders within their organizations so they too can excel at what's required from them.

1. Develop your networking skills

Some people are born with natural-born social abilities, but most have to learn how to network effectively. One place to start is understanding that you need a strategy for what you want out of your networking efforts: What's in it for me? What type of people am I looking to connect with? But while the "what's in it for me" approach makes sense in terms of setting networking goals, it can run counter to your overarching mission to develop your ability to connect. If you're only interested in what people can do for you, it will be difficult to build genuine relationships. Instead, focus on what you can do for others. What can you share with them? What advice or resources can you provide that would be helpful? When you make a habit of thinking about how you can help others, they will be more likely to reciprocate.

2. Be a resource

One of the best ways to add value as a connector is to be a resource for others. When you're known as someone who is always willing to share helpful information, people will seek you out as a valuable connection. Be sure to keep your network updated on your areas of expertise and what you're working on, so they can easily refer people to you. You can also proactively reach out to your network and offer your help. When you make an effort to be a resource for others, they will be more likely to think of you when they need help in return.

3. Seek out opportunities to collaborate

In today's business world, it's more important than ever to be able to work collaboratively. As a connector, you can play an important role in facilitating collaboration by bringing people together and helping them find common ground. When you're looking for opportunities to collaborate, keep an eye out for projects or initiatives that would benefit from multiple perspectives. You can also look for ways to build collaboration into your existing work. For example, if you're working on a marketing campaign, reach out to someone in the sales department and see if they have any input to contribute.

4. Be a good listener

One of the most important skills for any leader is the ability to listen. When you're trying to build relationships and connect with others, you must take the time to listen to what they have to say. Not only will this help you better understand their needs and goals, but it will also show them that you value their input. Try to avoid interrupting when someone is speaking, and resist the urge to always steer the conversation back to yourself. Instead, focus on really hearing what the other person is saying and ask follow-up questions to show that you're interested in what they have to say.

5. Be genuine

For your connections to be meaningful, they need to be based on genuine relationships. This means being honest about who you are and what you're looking for. It also means being responsive to the needs of others and taking an interest in their lives and careers. If you're not genuine in your interactions, people will quickly see through you and move on to someone they can trust. Building genuine relationships takes time and effort, but it's worth it. When you have a network of people you can rely on, you'll be able to accomplish more than you ever thought possible.

6. Help others achieve their goals

A good business leader knows how to help other people achieve their personal and professional goals. They do this by being a resource, listening attentively, and providing helpful advice and support. By helping others reach their goals, a business leader can build meaningful relationships and create a powerful network of connections. For example, a business leader might provide guidance on how to navigate a particular situation, offer suggestions on how to improve professionally, or give advice on how to manage time and resources effectively. By offering this support, a business leader demonstrates their dedication to helping others achieve their goals and establishes themselves as a trusted resource. Additionally, this assistance can lead to the development of strong relationships that can benefit both parties involved.

7. Promote a culture of connections and collaborations

When it comes to connecting with others, leaders need to set an example. By modeling the behavior you want to see in your team, you can create a culture of connection that will help everyone be more successful. When you promote a culture of connections, you're encouraging your team to build relationships with each other and with people outside the organization. This can help everyone develop a broader network of contacts and open up new opportunities for collaboration. Additionally, a culture of connection can lead to a more positive work environment where people feel supported and valued.

8. Cultivate an abundance mindset

In my leadership roles, I make introductions, look for mutually-beneficial connections, pass along opportunities, facilitate mentorships, network and get to know people and their needs. It’s not based on a transaction, and I don’t consider it a loss when others get ahead. A rising tide lifts all boats, and a mindset of abundance is one in which you believe that there is enough for everyone to succeed. This type of thinking encourages you to share your resources and connections with others, and it helps you build relationships based on mutual respect and cooperation. When you have a mindset of abundance, you see the world as a place where anything is possible, and you're more likely to take risks and seize opportunities. This type of thinking can lead to a more positive outlook on life, and it can help you build a network of supportive relationships.

9. Seek first to understand, then to be understood

When it comes to connecting with others, it’s important to remember that we all have different communication styles. Some people are more direct, while others prefer a more gentle approach. The key is to try to understand the other person’s style and adapt your own accordingly. One of the best ways to do this is to practice the art of active listening. Active listening involves not just hearing what the other person is saying, but also taking the time to understand their message. This includes paying attention to both the words they use and their body language. By making an effort to understand others, you’ll be better equipped to connect with them on a deeper level.

10. Don't be afraid to ask for help

Leaders are often reluctant to ask for help, but this can be one of the best ways to build connections. When you ask for help, you show that you're willing to admit your limitations and that you value the expertise of others. This humility can go a long way in establishing trust and respect. Additionally, asking for help demonstrates that you're not afraid to take risks. This willingness to take risks shows that you're open to new ideas and willing to try new things. Asking for help can also lead to the development of strong relationships, as you're more likely to appreciate the help you receive and be willing to reciprocate in the future.

11. Be open to feedback

To grow as a leader, it's important to be open to feedback. Feedback can be difficult to hear, but it's essential for improving your skills and abilities. When you're open to feedback, you show that you're willing to learn and that you value the input of others. Additionally, being open to feedback demonstrates that you're not afraid to receive criticism. This willingness to accept constructive feedback shows that you're confident in your abilities and that you're willing to work hard to improve.

12. Pay it forward

One of the best ways to connect with others is to pay it forward. When you help someone else, they're more likely to want to help you in return. Additionally, paying it forward shows that you're generous and that you care about others. This type of behavior can lead to the development of strong relationships built on trust and mutual respect. Paying it forward is a great way to build connections, but it's also important to remember that you can't always expect something in return. Sometimes the best thing you can do is simply give without expecting anything in return.

Go Forth and Be an Awesome Connector

By following these twelve tips, you can become a better leadership connector. By connecting with others, you can create opportunities for growth and development. And by paying it forward, you can make a positive impact on the lives of those around you.

Clara Conti is currently working as VP & General Manager -?Red Hat Public Sector . She is a corporate restructuring guru and founder of multiple business startups. Connect with her on?LinkedIn ?and?Twitter .