Are you just hanging around or are you truly connected with those in your community?  How do you know and do you really care?  Are deep meaningful connections important to you and your work or will a world of Friends, Likes and Contacts serve you and your goals?

We are all a part of a world that provides enormous opportunity to connect with others.  Examples today are social media platforms, networking groups, special events and of course family gatherings.  No matter where you live in the world the internet will provide a way for you to be seen and heard.

So may I ask….. Of your social connections, who are you truly in connection with?

O the hundreds of contacts that may exist in your world right now, how many individuals would express to you that they have truly felt seen, heard and valued by you?  Are you just acquainted or have you truly engaged with the person behind the social media profile?  To many this is a silly thought.  We assume that with a click of a button we are connected.  I have asked myself how do I deepen the relationship and ask for what I want and to ask them how may I be of service?

Remember the movie “You’ve Got Mail”?  It was a novel idea in 1994 that you could actually meet someone so special over the internet.  That was the beginning of a new era which has vastly grown to be a part of our everyday lives.

If we wish to lead with our hearts within our organizations we must get to know the individuals we have connected with in order to build connection.  This then leads to engagement, trust and beyond.  Many reading this know what a trusting, engaged relationship can mean to both parties and their common goals.  The thought may be overwhelming or carry fear for you and that most likely is tied to intimacy and/or vulnerability opportunities.

How will you develop connections with those individuals you are acquainted or connected with? And will these activities support your why around number of contacts vs. quality connections?

May I challenge you to start now by reaching out to just a few of the people that you have connected with and schedule a time for a ‘to the point about what each wants and needs from one another’.  Be courageous.  Ask questions.  This time should be solely focused on getting to know this person with no agenda.

Knowing the vision, goals, talents, strengths and opportunities of your connection with these individuals will provide the insight of how they fit in your organization and your life.  If not a fit, then let them go.

Strong leaders set themselves apart from others by listening to the hearts of those they lead with in their organizations.  Please take the time to slow down and communicate to create the energy that can exist between two people with they feel seen, heard and valued.

Thoughts from your Servant Leader,

Greg

Image Inspiration by Josh McAfee