In this microwave fast paced world we live in, there seems to be less connection happening and more disconnection.  We have the ability to hide out behind our computer and never meet anyone face to face.  We can stay in the comfort of our own homes and not venture out to personally connect with people.

It seems people rarely talk on the phone anymore.  We are constantly texting or emailing each other.  Dating isn’t done the old fashioned way where you meet someone out at an event or maybe you are introduced to someone through a friend.  The majority of dating these days is done through online dating sites. As a result, people often misrepresent who they are because they are able to hide behind virtual reality.

I’ve often witnessed people at a restaurant texting or emailing on their cell phone while they are at the table with other people.  I must admit I have been guilty of this a time or two.  As a result, I have made a conscious commitment to only respond to text or phone calls from my children when I’m out with people.  Often times I won’t answer the phone when I’m with other people unless it’s an important phone call about something significant with an upcoming deadline.

Sometimes all we are able to do to connect with someone is connect by phone or email.  If you are able to connect by phone, that would be best.  It gives you the opportunity to let someone hear the sound of your voice vs a written email that has no emotion or inflection.

The key here is to make an effort to connect with other people in a way that builds trust and a connection that enhances both sides of the relationship.  There are so many lonely people in the world today and your smile might make the difference on how they handle the rest of the day.

Whether you are looking to attract the right clients or simply improve your relationships with others at work, at home or in your business, make that initial connection and build on the relationship from there.  If you are in business and looking for that prospect, don’t go right into discussing business when your first come in contact with them.  Take the time to get to know them, build a connection and gain their trust.

If you are meeting someone for the first time offer a sincere compliment and get to know something about them, take a genuine interest in them and practice effective listening.  What that means is listen to them intently instead of formulating what you are going to say back to them.  As you build your connection, trust will come and relationships will grow and prosper.

GoPINK!

Eldonna Lewis Fernandez is a retired Air Force Master Sergeant with 23 years of honorable military service.  She a negotiation and performance expert for people who want to eliminate limiting beliefs, develop greater influence, and build stronger relationships both professionally and personally.  She teaches people how to attract the right clients, improve their bottom line and negotiate better deals from the family room to the boardroom. Focusing on leadership, negotiation, personal growth, adventure, self-esteem, and inspiration she empowers people to take control of the handlebars of their lives through the Power of PINK:  Power, Integrity, Negotiation & Knowledge.