Why & how to be intentional in building connections & relationships

There is a common saying that people do business with people they like. To me this means people that have a positive connection to one another. A connection that goes beyond the pure business reason or transaction. Having a closer, a more human connection makes us feel more comfortable, more secure, stronger, happier. It makes us feel good.

Keeping in mind that also relationships in business, client--salesperson, employee-- employer, guest--host, customer--company representative, team member--manager- are first and foremost human relationships.

And when people come together and build a true bond, great things can come from that. Especially in times of challenges, constraints and needed change, it is prudent connect with others intentionally.

How to be more intentional in building sincere relationships and good connections:

1. Keep the human relationship in focus

• Yes, it may be a business transaction you have to process, but there is a person sitting in front of you. Let this be the focus, not the transaction or the desired outcome of that. Be kind and understanding.

2. Strive to inspire positivity

• When the atmosphere between people is positive, it sparks positive feelings. Positive feelings influence positive behaviors and decision making. Try to strive for positivity in every connection.

3. The first objective of any connection should be looking to understand

• Understanding is the foundation of empathy. Empathy-based communication, actions and decisions are truely meaningful for both, making the relationship purposeful, sincere, deep and targeted.

4. Invest in emotional intelligence

• Focus on or learn being aware of your emotions. Emotions impact our behaviours and the way we show up. And this impacts the emotions and actions of others. Learn to be aware of other people`s emotions and invest in the skill to positively influence relationships.

5. Purposefully work with your network

• "Use" the people you know. Look for connections that could be of value to you. And do the same for your connections. Regular networking will keep you on top of mind of others. When they need your assistance or when they have something, they can assist you with. Be active in your network.

6. Deliberately connect to people to learn from them

• Connect to others within and outside your network that have certain expertise, skills and experience that you want to learn from. Expand your knowledge by asking others for advice. As mentioned in a previous article on mentoring “Asking for advice is not sign of weakness or insecurity. It is a sign of wisdom and respect for others, whose opinion you value.”

If your personal interactions are true and meaningful, you will feel good. And if you feel good, your actions and decisions will feel right. Emotions impact our thinking and drive behaviours.  

If you want to learn more about how to build communication skills, how to invest in emotional intelligence in the workplace or leadership, how to use mentoring and be intentional how to build connections and relationships, feel free to connect and we can discuss how I can assist you with this. Or learn from you. A connection between people is the always best the connection.