Uncommon Connections in 2022 To Grow Your Career — Thom Singer
In the world today, people matter more than ever. If you are looking out to the future with big hopes, dreams, and goals…you will be best suited for more success if you build relationships. Creating more Uncommon Connections in 2022 is your path to finding success.
All opportunities come from people.
In a climate where much of our views of humans is via “Social Media”, I ask if social media is really that social? Too much is a broadcast and not enough is personal. Many look to the “influencers” and think that they need to copy their actions. Thus they post pictures and videos that are slick and “on brand”. However they fail to realize that these people are not living in the same world. Fame brings different realities, and you cannot skip steps to get to where these people are now. They did not start as “influencers”. And I am not sure that should really be the goal for the rest of us.
Uncommon Connections in 2022
The common connections nowadays is a like, a link, a share, or a follow. And while these online social tools are wonderful (I use them), they do not equal a friendship. In our world, people will still tend to do business with those they know, like, and trust. While AI and other digital tools are great resources, if we remove the human connection we may forever be chasing the results we desire.
An uncommon connection in 2022 are when we really know the person and we both want to see the other succeed. These are the few people in your network who you enjoy being around and you know they have your back. These types of people are rare for most of us. They are the ones who do not judge and look for ways to help. They give you time are not trying to sell you their online course or sign you up for their coaching program. (note…. there is nothing wrong with selling your knowledge and coaching, but these types of connections are not the uncommon ones, they are transactional).
How to build friendships
The older you get, the harder it seems to be to make new friends. Relationships of all types take an investment of time and intention. But it is still possible, and those who come into you life and are interested in developing a win / win connection should be cherished.
A great place to start is your industry trade association or other business organizations. The people who participate are often also there to make new business connections. But too often people are turned off by these groups because of the vendors / sponsors who participate to find clients. The first thing to remember is the sponsors pay for the association events, so without them it would be cost prohibitive. The other thing is that these people are often the ideal people to build connections with, as they know who in the organization is worth getting to know. Networking with people who call on your industry is the best strategy (especially when you are getting started).
When looking to cultivate business relationship, remember that meeting someone once does not make them part of your network. It takes time to cultivate connections, and you have to invest in sharing experiences and finding ways to be a resources for others. If you want people to bring you opportunities, lead by example.
Be an Uncommon Connection In 2022
To have these amazing types of relationships, start by showing up to serve others. As you enter the new year, commit to being an uncommon connection in 2022. When you enter a networking event do not ask “who can I meet who will help me?”. Instead, seek out how you can find someone to whom you can provide value. If you do this every time you network, you will discover a new way to grow you reach in your industry. When your reputation is one who is not just seeking to separate others from their money, you win (in a world where too many are angling for self-focused reasons).
The last two years with “social distancing” showed up just how important our connections are to success. Find ways to “socially tighten” all your relationships and you will create a new path moving forward.
Have a great day
About Thom Singer
Thom Singer works for Stanton Chase, a leading executive search firm that specializes in helping companies and associations place key hires. He is also a keynote speaker and professional master of ceremonies / EmCee
After a successful career in sales and marketing, Thom Singer became a growth leadership speaker in 2009. A decade later he has brought his high energy presentations and action-oriented content to over 900 audiences. Thom knows that as the speaker or master of ceremonies he has a responsibility to set the tone for a strong conference attendee experience. Known as “The Conference Catalyst” he creates an atmosphere of fun and interaction that lasts beyond his presentation.
Thom earned his Certified Speaking Professional (CSP) in 2014 and is committed to the business of meetings. He is the author of 12 books and is the host of the popular “Cool Things Entrepreneurs Do” podcast. On his show he has interviewed over 400 entrepreneurs, solopreneurs, business leaders and others with a focus on discovering how the most successful people get farther across the gap between potential and results.
At 50 years old Thom decided to reinvent his life and make age 50 to 75 the best years of his life. This meant saying yes to things that scared him, and trying new things. Since that time Thom has jumped off buildings, took up running (and lost 30 lbs) and began performing stand up comedy.
Originally published at https://thomsinger.com on November 21, 2021.
