Friday Coffee with MAP – October 25, 2024

Hello , and welcome to Friday Coffee with MAP!

This week’s piece explores the extraordinary benefit of being a “connector” in the professional sphere. While we’ve always felt that the common saying, “it’s not what you know, its who you know” needlessly devalues the importance of sustained learning and skill development, it is certainly clear that a strong personal connection to someone else can be a gift to someone looking to solve a professional problem. This week’s piece shows us why giving that gift to others proactively can change the course of your career.

Happy reading!

“The Generosity Power Move That Can Boost Your Career”
_{by Rachel Feintzeig for The Wall Street Journal}

________________________________________________________________

Connecting two people in the professional world not only benefits those being introduced to each other, but can also bring long-term advantages to the connector.

When we become a “hub” for our networks, we are able to broker new relationships that give us new levels of trust– and put us in positions to be looked at as someone who solves complex problems. We are looked at as a short-cut- and people love shortcuts.

The trick here is to operate with a “pay it forward” mentality first. Seek out opportunities to help others; to connect them to others in your network. Former Workday Head of Talent Greg Pryor ends most calls by saying “Is there anything I can do to help you?”

This helps you harness the power of reciprocity. When you need new connections, you'll have a network of people you've previously helped who will be more than willing to offer their time and energy to support you.

Here are some tips to being a great connector:

The Email Formula: Perfect your email introductions to create a sense of opportunity and excitement. One expert suggest writing two paragraphs—one for each person– He describes what they do, why he thought of them, and how they’re perfect to connect on this particular thing. And he always puts the person who stands to gain more from the interaction last, queuing them up to initiate contact, which he always urges them to do relatively quickly.

“Worst Intro Ever”: A poorly executed introduction can not only doom a connection before it even begins– it can result in a hugely negative feeling between everyone involved and hamper existing relationships. Be clear, concise, and directly to the point when it comes to making a possible connection.

Bon Appétit: To make connections less awkward, add food. To enhance your reputation as a connector, you can invite possible connections for drinks or food. One of the article’s sources likes to connect like-minded people by throwing small events, crafting guest lists by thinking about common hobbies, hometowns and the ratio of introverts to extroverts.

By becoming a "connection hub" for others, you'll always have the resources and support you need when facing a professional challenge.

___________________________________________________________________________

So tell us: What is the most important “connection” you’ve ever benefitted from– or the most important connection you’ve ever arranged for someone else?

We’re looking forward to hearing from you! Have a wonderful weekend.

Thank you,

The MAP Team

10345 W. Olympic Blvd, Suite 110
Los Angeles, CA 90064
OFFICE: 310.601.4095
FAX: 310.388.5484
WEB:www.mapstrategic.com

This email contains links to articles or other information that may be on a third-party website. Advisory Services Network, LLC is not responsible for and does not control, adopt, or endorse any content contained on any third-party website.