E19/S2 CONNECTOR - Build strong work relationships

Andrew tells the story of Nadine, a member of a team who identifies the need to connect daily work with core values in response to a customer satisfaction report.  She develops a plan that is implemented over three months and is instrumental in improving the team's customer service. The story serves as an example of the importance of being a connector at work, someone who helps build relationships and make connections.  The episode then provides tips on becoming a practical connector, including reaching beyond your comfort zone, being willing to reconnect with people, and following up with contacts.

The first question the episode addresses is what jobs are suitable for connectors. The answer is that anyone can be a connector, regardless of their job title or position in the company.  Being a practical connector involves keeping core values at the forefront of everything you do and showing others how to put those values into practice.  The episode provides several tips for becoming a practical connector, such as thinking about others first, reaching beyond your comfort zone, and being a resource to others.  Finally, the episode emphasises the importance of following up with contacts and obtaining permission before connecting people.

The takeaway from this episode is:  invest in relationships at work and give yourself your best chance of longer-term success.

 

Five ways to create stronger connections, The Way We Work, a TED series, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EtZQT3avFaY&ab_channel=TED

Seven Ted talks that will teach you about connection, https://b-buildingbusiness.com/blog/grow/ted-talks-connection/

K. Caprino, How To Be A True Connector And Transform Your Career With Powerful Support, Jun 11, 2019, https://tinyurl.com/24rystxs

D. Brustein, Forget Luck. Become A Connector and Create Your Own, May 26, 2019, https://tinyurl.com/2t2bv82e

B. Attfield, ten ways to connect people in your workplace, Jostle, https://tinyurl.com/2p98dmhd

K. Cherry, Why Can't I Connect With People? February 24, 2022, https://tinyurl.com/y2dk857c

 

Can't wait for Series 2 to run its course? Then buy Andrew's new book, published on Amazon, and there's also an Audio version. Further reading and videos: Andrew recommends some useful follow-through material which you can find for each episode at

www.myhappinessatwork.com/reading/categories/research-reading

and

www.myhappinessatwork.com/watch. BOOK: The 50 Ways to Succeed at Work book is a standalone companion to Andrew Leigh's weekly podcasts. It's an essential resource for all job starters and those at work for a few years. Dip in and out and take what seems helpful.

www.myhappinessatwork.com/book