#PositiveVibes - Why Hello!

 By John R. Nocero & Alice Raad

 The VIBE: Put yourself out there and just say it...hello!

John: I was at a training session yesterday that ran late; I had a prior lunch engagement for a holiday party that I was invited to. As I was driving there with a colleague, we were running a bit late and were having difficulty finding a place to park. We walked in as the group of about 20 were in the middle of their meals, some were finishing. There were seats on the end so I sat down. At this point, I had a choice, shrink down and wilt or jump in and be part of the group. I decided to say “hi everyone, I’m John, I work in clinical quality. What do you do?” At that point, we had a great conversation as I learned more about my colleagues in the conflict of interest group. I even set up a meeting with the director of the group next week to find out more about what they do. Who knows where it will lead? At worst, I made a new friend. At best, I’ve made a new boss. Most importantly, I can always make friends. No matter where you drop me in the world, I could build up a loving support network of warm and caring relationships. Because people are the same everywhere – we all just want to be valued and given some warm attention. It’s not hard, is it Alice? Yet so many people wouldn’t do it. My question is why?

 Alice: John, I will attest to that! You certainly know no stranger. I remember when you first reached out to me about a year ago when you were moving to NC. Ironically, I was just beginning my departure from NC to the big city of Chicago. Since I reconnected with you most recently, you have introduced me to so many networks and fellow clinical researchers. You never know where these connections and conversations may lead. I truly believe in the notion “paying it forward.” You never know how introductions and connections can play, how they can open doors to new opportunities, and perhaps, in turn, open a door for you! After all, we have all been at the bottom of the totem pole—we have been the inexperienced among the experienced. With these holiday gatherings, this is the best time to meet new people and make connections you may not ordinarily make. The next person you shake hands with may be your new boss or connect you to your future opportunity. These casual introductions over a glass of eggnog may be your next big break, so why not seize the day and spread some holiday cheer all the while making these connections that may someone’s future, or perhaps even yours.

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