During the Q&A at the end of my keynotes, I’m often asked how I personally build valuable connections. Over the years I developed five GREAT approaches that really work for me. Think about how you can apply these ideas to your connection building.

Five Approaches to Building Valuable Connections. 

1. Engage others by focusing on what interests them. Find out what interests others (Their children/grandchildren? Acquiring new customers? Their alma mater? A great place to buy shoes?) and begin your conversation from that point. A great question to get to the heart of the matter: What’s the most fun you’ve had in the past month?
   
   
2. Approach every interaction with a positive mindset. Season every conversation with laughter and enthusiasm.
   
   
3. Don't take anyone or anything for granted. Praise positive experiences. Thank everyone for their time, their service, their support, their thoughtfulness and their help.
   
   
4. Hear people out. Don’t assume everyone thinks the same way. Listen fully to the ideas of others. And while you’re at it, adapt the way you communicate to best serve them. Just because email seems more efficient to you, don’t assume that is the case for everyone.
   
   
5. Drop the need to be “right." Let go of grudges. Remember, life is not a contest!