Taking the time to build a relationship can be helpful and it must be done properly. There are instances in which having a key relationship can help and being able to build it will help later on. Being able to meet someone is the first step but taking the time to build that relationship is even more important.
Below are some tips on building a relationship with someone:
1) Take the Time to Listen- It's easy to provide someone with your own verbal autobiography during the first meeting, however, that will likely bore the other person and prohibit a relationship from developing. Take the time to listen to the other person in the conversation and inquire more. You don't need to interrogate the other person but take the time to listen and show an interest
2) Find a Common Way to Keep in Touch - Someone prefer phone calls, others prefer e-mails, some prefer texts, the list goes on. Take the time to find a way to keep in touch with the person and find the method that will work for him or her. You don't have to bombard someone with multiple e-mails, texts or calls to get a response. Find the method that works best and remember to be patient.
3) If Possible, Try and Find Common Ground - It's not always easy to find common ground with someone and in some instances, you may not have anything in common with the other person. If you can, try and find a common interest or passion. It will not only serve as a conversation starter but opportunities to build that relationship.
4) Be Respectful to the Other Person - This does sound obvious but realize that certain comments or reacting a certain way to someone's comment could be a turnoff. Be respectful to the other person's beliefs, positions, backgrounds, etc. when developing a relationship. Make sure to be open minded as well.
Showing posts with label business relationship. Show all posts
Showing posts with label business relationship. Show all posts
Sunday, November 27, 2011
Sunday, November 6, 2011
Rules for Meeting a New Person (Can Also Be Used for Dating)
Whether it is for business or for personal reasons, meeting new people is essential in life. Taking the time to develop relationships with others can be beneficial for business and in your personal life.
Below are some tips to use when meeting someone for the first time (for those of you interest in dating, these rules can apply as well):
1) Take the Time to Listen to the Other Person - It's easy to provide someone with your own personal verbal autobiography, however, that doesn't show an interest in the person you are trying to build a relationship with. The other person will probably become bored easily and will not want to further the relationship. Instead of talking about yourself, take the time to listen to what the other person has to say.
2) Show an Interest in the Other Person - Take the time to learn about the other person's interests, passions in life, goals, hobbies, etc. This will make the other person feel more comfortable with you and will make for a better conversation.
3) Eye Contact - When you don't look at the other person in the eye, he or she will notice. You may not think so but eye contact can be very important.
4) Be Respectful to the Other Person and Those Around You At the Time of the Meeting - This may sound obvious but being disrespectful to the other person or those around you at the time of the meeting can be a huge turn off. Small things such as a cell phone or pager going off, constantly texting during the meeting, or answering a call during the meeting can be a turn off to someone. If the person is taking time out of his or her day to meet you, be respectful and do not make the person feel like you aren't willing to pay attention to the conversation.
Below are some tips to use when meeting someone for the first time (for those of you interest in dating, these rules can apply as well):
1) Take the Time to Listen to the Other Person - It's easy to provide someone with your own personal verbal autobiography, however, that doesn't show an interest in the person you are trying to build a relationship with. The other person will probably become bored easily and will not want to further the relationship. Instead of talking about yourself, take the time to listen to what the other person has to say.
2) Show an Interest in the Other Person - Take the time to learn about the other person's interests, passions in life, goals, hobbies, etc. This will make the other person feel more comfortable with you and will make for a better conversation.
3) Eye Contact - When you don't look at the other person in the eye, he or she will notice. You may not think so but eye contact can be very important.
4) Be Respectful to the Other Person and Those Around You At the Time of the Meeting - This may sound obvious but being disrespectful to the other person or those around you at the time of the meeting can be a huge turn off. Small things such as a cell phone or pager going off, constantly texting during the meeting, or answering a call during the meeting can be a turn off to someone. If the person is taking time out of his or her day to meet you, be respectful and do not make the person feel like you aren't willing to pay attention to the conversation.
Saturday, August 13, 2011
Small Manners Can Go A Long Way
As we were growing up, we were probably taught the importance of saying "please," "thank you," and "your welcome" when someone went out of his or her way to do something polite for you. As we got older, we also learned the importance of taking the time to say "thank you" via a card or e-mail to someone who may have helped us along the way. These manners are simple but minding them in key situations can go a long way.
When you have done a favor for someone, have you ever noticed what it feels like when the person you helped does not say "thank you?" Have you gone out of your way to assist someone with an event and not receive any gratitude at all? If this has happened to you, you probably would not be as inclined to help this person again because of the lack of effort shown to express gratitude for your help and assistance. All it could have taken this person was a small thank you note to show gratitude and you would feel different about the situation at that time.
Even when you don't think manners are important, put yourself in the other person's shoes. For example, if a guy was on a date with a girl, how do you think the girl would feel if the guy didn't open the door for her? On the flip side, how do you think the guy would feel if his date didn't say thank you for opening the door or gave him dirty looks for doing so? How do you think one would feel if the date completely ignored the other person and didn't show any appreciation towards the effort being given by the other person to be polite? In cases like this, the smallest of manners can mean a lot and can make a difference.
Below are some tips that can be used in multiple situations whether it is networking, business or even dating:
1) Be Polite To Those Around You - For example, when you are at a restaurant, there is a difference between asking your server for a glass of water and demanding it. You will catch more flies with honey if you politely ask, "Excuse, when you have a moment, could you please get me a glass of water?" then you will with "Go get me a glass of water!" This plus taking a couple of minutes to ask how someone's day is going can help a lot.
2) Opening Doors Can Go A Long Way - It sounds simple but I'll admit I don't feel right if I don't open the door for someone or at least look back to see if someone is behind me when I am about to go into someplace. Taking a few moments to open the door for someone (gentleman, pay attention) can really mean a lot to someone.
3) If You Choose To Spend Time With Someone, Do Not Ignore That Other Person- I know this one sounds bizarre and obvious but you would be surprised how hurtful it can be when someone you want to spend time with just blows you off or doesn't pay attention to you. For example, if you are a high school or college student and if you decide to take a date to a dance or formal, take the time to talk with that person throughout the night, spend time with that person and ask him or her to dance (this last one is key). Imagine how that person will feel if you don't take the time to talk to him or her or offer to take them on the dance floor during that night. Chances are, that person will feel hurt that you didn't spend time with him or her (trust me on this one) and will have the night ruined because of it.
4) The Importance Of "Thank You" - They are only two words and they are simple to say. Make sure to say thank you in situations where it is necessary and don't forget to show your gratitude.
When you have done a favor for someone, have you ever noticed what it feels like when the person you helped does not say "thank you?" Have you gone out of your way to assist someone with an event and not receive any gratitude at all? If this has happened to you, you probably would not be as inclined to help this person again because of the lack of effort shown to express gratitude for your help and assistance. All it could have taken this person was a small thank you note to show gratitude and you would feel different about the situation at that time.
Even when you don't think manners are important, put yourself in the other person's shoes. For example, if a guy was on a date with a girl, how do you think the girl would feel if the guy didn't open the door for her? On the flip side, how do you think the guy would feel if his date didn't say thank you for opening the door or gave him dirty looks for doing so? How do you think one would feel if the date completely ignored the other person and didn't show any appreciation towards the effort being given by the other person to be polite? In cases like this, the smallest of manners can mean a lot and can make a difference.
Below are some tips that can be used in multiple situations whether it is networking, business or even dating:
1) Be Polite To Those Around You - For example, when you are at a restaurant, there is a difference between asking your server for a glass of water and demanding it. You will catch more flies with honey if you politely ask, "Excuse, when you have a moment, could you please get me a glass of water?" then you will with "Go get me a glass of water!" This plus taking a couple of minutes to ask how someone's day is going can help a lot.
2) Opening Doors Can Go A Long Way - It sounds simple but I'll admit I don't feel right if I don't open the door for someone or at least look back to see if someone is behind me when I am about to go into someplace. Taking a few moments to open the door for someone (gentleman, pay attention) can really mean a lot to someone.
3) If You Choose To Spend Time With Someone, Do Not Ignore That Other Person- I know this one sounds bizarre and obvious but you would be surprised how hurtful it can be when someone you want to spend time with just blows you off or doesn't pay attention to you. For example, if you are a high school or college student and if you decide to take a date to a dance or formal, take the time to talk with that person throughout the night, spend time with that person and ask him or her to dance (this last one is key). Imagine how that person will feel if you don't take the time to talk to him or her or offer to take them on the dance floor during that night. Chances are, that person will feel hurt that you didn't spend time with him or her (trust me on this one) and will have the night ruined because of it.
4) The Importance Of "Thank You" - They are only two words and they are simple to say. Make sure to say thank you in situations where it is necessary and don't forget to show your gratitude.
Sunday, August 7, 2011
The Importance of Saying Hello and Being Friendly
How many times have you been at a restaurant where the person serving you did not show much interest in you? Have you been at restaurants where the server didn't respond to you trying to make small talk or really say much?
Chances are, we have all been in a situation where the person serving us at a restaurant, coffee bar or other establishment did not take the time to make small talk or seem interested in getting to know you. After this, you may have felt as if the person did not care or wanted to be at his or her job that day.
In certain situations, taking the time to make small talk with the people you come in contact can not only make someone's day but might make that person more responsive to you later on. Taking a few minutes to be friendly and asking how the other person's day is going can make a difference.
For example, as a photographer for Solon High School Football, I will often try and make small talk with the people who work the gates at the games, work the sidelines or talk to the police officers there. I don't have to say hello to these people, however, it makes a difference when someone is taking a couple of minutes to say "Hey, how are you doing?" or "How is your day going?" Taking a few moments to say hello to these people makes me a friendlier face and can make people more responsive and receptive to you later on.
When you are out and about at places you frequent often whether it is bars, restaurants or coffee shops, take a few minutes to say hello to the people serving you and ask about his or her day. You don't have to play a game of "20 Questions" but take some time to ask how the day is going, how long he or she has been there, or if a lot of people have come through. Take the time to listen to the answers and try and get a small conversation going. It might sound hard but if you take the time and listen and ask, you shouldn't have a problem getting something going.
In most every day situations, you don't have to say hello to others and be friendly but taking the time to do so can help you stand out from the rest for positive reasons.
Chances are, we have all been in a situation where the person serving us at a restaurant, coffee bar or other establishment did not take the time to make small talk or seem interested in getting to know you. After this, you may have felt as if the person did not care or wanted to be at his or her job that day.
In certain situations, taking the time to make small talk with the people you come in contact can not only make someone's day but might make that person more responsive to you later on. Taking a few minutes to be friendly and asking how the other person's day is going can make a difference.
For example, as a photographer for Solon High School Football, I will often try and make small talk with the people who work the gates at the games, work the sidelines or talk to the police officers there. I don't have to say hello to these people, however, it makes a difference when someone is taking a couple of minutes to say "Hey, how are you doing?" or "How is your day going?" Taking a few moments to say hello to these people makes me a friendlier face and can make people more responsive and receptive to you later on.
When you are out and about at places you frequent often whether it is bars, restaurants or coffee shops, take a few minutes to say hello to the people serving you and ask about his or her day. You don't have to play a game of "20 Questions" but take some time to ask how the day is going, how long he or she has been there, or if a lot of people have come through. Take the time to listen to the answers and try and get a small conversation going. It might sound hard but if you take the time and listen and ask, you shouldn't have a problem getting something going.
In most every day situations, you don't have to say hello to others and be friendly but taking the time to do so can help you stand out from the rest for positive reasons.
Saturday, June 25, 2011
Meeting People For the First Time- Some Helpful Tips
Meeting new people is important in developing relationships and your personal and professional network. Being able to build friendships and relationships is important in life and can help build a support network when needed.
For some, meeting someone for the first time can be intimidating and nerve-racking. Making a first impression is important but is not as hard as you think.
Below are some tips for making the most out of meeting someone for the first time:
1) Take Time To Know The Other Person and Avoid Giving Your Own Verbal Autobiography - Monopolizing the conversation and only talking about yourself could be a turn off right away and might even bore the other person. Take time to find out what his or her interests are, what passions he or she might have and his or her interests. Take time to get to know the other person rather then re-living your entire life in just one conversation. It will show you are interested in getting to know the other person and not promoting yourself.
2) We Were Given Two Ears and One Mouth So We Could Listen Twice as Often as We Talk - Before my senior year of college, a network contact of mine (who I still keep in touch with to this day) mentioned this to me and it really resonated with me. Take the time to listen to the other person in conversation. By listening, you will know what to ask next, learn more about the person sitting across the table from you and be able to hold a conversation better. You will be able to find more to talk about and know more about the person in the end.
3) Make Eye Contact - I'll admit that I have trouble with this one at times and it is more noticeable then you think. If you aren't making eye contact, people will notice. Not making eye contact could be a turn off to some people. Make sure to make eye contact with the person and it may even help you listen better.
4) Be Relaxed - This one might be hard to do but relax when sitting down with someone for the first time. Meeting new people is something that will never change in life and be relaxed and calm during the first meeting. Being uptight could make it difficult to listen, hold a conversation or learn more about that person.
For some, meeting someone for the first time can be intimidating and nerve-racking. Making a first impression is important but is not as hard as you think.
Below are some tips for making the most out of meeting someone for the first time:
1) Take Time To Know The Other Person and Avoid Giving Your Own Verbal Autobiography - Monopolizing the conversation and only talking about yourself could be a turn off right away and might even bore the other person. Take time to find out what his or her interests are, what passions he or she might have and his or her interests. Take time to get to know the other person rather then re-living your entire life in just one conversation. It will show you are interested in getting to know the other person and not promoting yourself.
2) We Were Given Two Ears and One Mouth So We Could Listen Twice as Often as We Talk - Before my senior year of college, a network contact of mine (who I still keep in touch with to this day) mentioned this to me and it really resonated with me. Take the time to listen to the other person in conversation. By listening, you will know what to ask next, learn more about the person sitting across the table from you and be able to hold a conversation better. You will be able to find more to talk about and know more about the person in the end.
3) Make Eye Contact - I'll admit that I have trouble with this one at times and it is more noticeable then you think. If you aren't making eye contact, people will notice. Not making eye contact could be a turn off to some people. Make sure to make eye contact with the person and it may even help you listen better.
4) Be Relaxed - This one might be hard to do but relax when sitting down with someone for the first time. Meeting new people is something that will never change in life and be relaxed and calm during the first meeting. Being uptight could make it difficult to listen, hold a conversation or learn more about that person.
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
Building Friendships Starts With Getting To Know Others
During your college years and even beyond, developing friendships inside and outside of the business world is key. Having a network of professional and personal contacts can help you become more rounded, be beneficial at key times and having others to enjoy your successes with. One of the biggest keys to building friendships is taking the time to getting to know others, their interests and their passions.
When you first meet someone new, it is easy to start discussing your goals, your hobbies and your passions. This will help the other person understand what you are about, however, it could also be a turn off at times. You might appear to be self-absorbed and not willing to learn about someone else by spending too much time talking about yourself.
During your first couple interactions with someone new, take time to learn about the person standing or sitting across from you. Take time to learn about his or her passions, interests and hobbies in life. You will end up having a better conversation, will develop trust with that person and it will mean a lot that you are showing an interest in someone else.
Once you have developed trust in a relationship, find a way to keep in touch with that person via e-mail, phone numbers, Facebook, etc. You don't need to call, e-mail or send a text message every day to develop the relationship; just a casual e-mail, phone call on the way home from work or quick text message will do the trick.
In addition to keeping in touch, find time to socialize with one another. If you two enjoy meeting for coffee, find a local coffee shop to hang out at once a month. If you two enjoy sporting events, make a point to go to a game when you two have the chance. By socializing with that person, you will develop the relationship and get to know the person even better.
Throughout life, having a vast network of friends is beneficial and the first step to building these relationships is taking the time to know others. Take time to learn about someone else, his or her passions and keep in touch. It will build trust and a lasting relationship.
When you first meet someone new, it is easy to start discussing your goals, your hobbies and your passions. This will help the other person understand what you are about, however, it could also be a turn off at times. You might appear to be self-absorbed and not willing to learn about someone else by spending too much time talking about yourself.
During your first couple interactions with someone new, take time to learn about the person standing or sitting across from you. Take time to learn about his or her passions, interests and hobbies in life. You will end up having a better conversation, will develop trust with that person and it will mean a lot that you are showing an interest in someone else.
Once you have developed trust in a relationship, find a way to keep in touch with that person via e-mail, phone numbers, Facebook, etc. You don't need to call, e-mail or send a text message every day to develop the relationship; just a casual e-mail, phone call on the way home from work or quick text message will do the trick.
In addition to keeping in touch, find time to socialize with one another. If you two enjoy meeting for coffee, find a local coffee shop to hang out at once a month. If you two enjoy sporting events, make a point to go to a game when you two have the chance. By socializing with that person, you will develop the relationship and get to know the person even better.
Throughout life, having a vast network of friends is beneficial and the first step to building these relationships is taking the time to know others. Take time to learn about someone else, his or her passions and keep in touch. It will build trust and a lasting relationship.
Saturday, March 5, 2011
Community Service: Take Time To Help Others!
As a college student and even as a professional, giving back to the community is an important aspect to have in your life. Taking time to help others, volunteer and be with other people provides you with something to look forward to, an opportunity to help others and meet other people. Taking time to help may be time consuming but can have benefits in the end.
During my college years, I'll admit I didn't take as much time to help out the community but was grateful when I did during my senior year. For a class, I had to interact with a service project and I had the opportunity to teach elementary school kids how to play sports. I hadn't done anything like this for a while but was glad I did.
Each week, the kids started to warm up to everyone else in the group and it was easy to tell they looked forward to us coming on a weekly basis. It meant a lot to these children that these "big college kids" were coming each week to spend time with them and playing games with them too. Even when I was done with what I needed to do for my class, I still volunteered because I enjoyed interacting with a different group of people and felt like I was giving back. It reminded me of what how I felt whenever someone older would pay attention and spend time to me and it felt good to remember where I came from.
Even after my college years were over, I found a way to give back to the community through my photography work. After taking pictures at a Solon High School football game one afternoon, I received a lot of positive feedback on the photos after I posted them up on Facebook and was asked if I could attend more games. I took the offer and was glad I did.
It had been many years since I really followed Solon High football, however, taking pictures at the games helps me interact and meet with a different group of people. During this time, I have received lots of positive feedback on the photos from the players, band members, parents and other people involved and looked forward to each coming week. I could tell the photos were appreciated and volunteering my time to do this has been worthwhile. It's provided me with another way for me to enjoy a hobby, have something to look forward to and interact with another group of people.
No matter where you are at in your life, take time to give back to the community; you never know what you might end up looking forward to and who you will meet.
During my college years, I'll admit I didn't take as much time to help out the community but was grateful when I did during my senior year. For a class, I had to interact with a service project and I had the opportunity to teach elementary school kids how to play sports. I hadn't done anything like this for a while but was glad I did.
Each week, the kids started to warm up to everyone else in the group and it was easy to tell they looked forward to us coming on a weekly basis. It meant a lot to these children that these "big college kids" were coming each week to spend time with them and playing games with them too. Even when I was done with what I needed to do for my class, I still volunteered because I enjoyed interacting with a different group of people and felt like I was giving back. It reminded me of what how I felt whenever someone older would pay attention and spend time to me and it felt good to remember where I came from.
Even after my college years were over, I found a way to give back to the community through my photography work. After taking pictures at a Solon High School football game one afternoon, I received a lot of positive feedback on the photos after I posted them up on Facebook and was asked if I could attend more games. I took the offer and was glad I did.
It had been many years since I really followed Solon High football, however, taking pictures at the games helps me interact and meet with a different group of people. During this time, I have received lots of positive feedback on the photos from the players, band members, parents and other people involved and looked forward to each coming week. I could tell the photos were appreciated and volunteering my time to do this has been worthwhile. It's provided me with another way for me to enjoy a hobby, have something to look forward to and interact with another group of people.
No matter where you are at in your life, take time to give back to the community; you never know what you might end up looking forward to and who you will meet.
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
One of the First Steps To Succeeding is Having a Postive Attitude!
During your college career and beyond, the attitude you show towards your work and projects is noticeable to those around you. It might not be as easy for you to see but how you treat your work, treat others or different situations can be noticed by those around you. Having the right attitude and a positive approach is also noticeable and those who practice it often can stand out for positive reasons.
When you are in certain places, how often do you notice someone with a bad attitude versus a positive attitude? For example, how many times have you gone to a restaurant where your server didn't say much to you, didn't want to talk to you or didn't care that he or she made a mistake? When that happens, you are left with the impression that the person had a bad attitude, didn't care and didn't want to be there.
When turning it around, how many times have you been at a restaurant where the server took time to talk to you, carefully took time to get your order correct and cared whether or not the food was prepared well and was served on time? Chances are, you were left with the impression that this person had a positive attitude, cared about his or her guests and wanted to do a good job. By being positive and showing care and concern, you were probably left that this person has a positive attitude.
Not all situations are positive but going in with the right attitude can help you get through them. For example, if you are a college student with a 25 page paper to write, the task is not an easy one but how you approach it can make a difference. If you keep saying to yourself that writing it is impossible, you won't get a good grade no matter what and it's too much time, chances are, that will show up in your work and hinder your grade. If you look at it the other way and think that you will learn the material better by writing the paper, you will create a strategy to outline your paper so it is organized and believe you can get a good grade, it will help you believe in yourself and get through the process. How you look at the situation can help determine the path you will go towards reaching your goal.
Even though we still will have bad days from time to time (or bad weeks), how you look at the situation surrounding you can determine the outcome later on. Making mistakes can be frustrating but taking a positive approach can help you learn in the future. For example, let's say you work for your campus radio station and you are in charge of making sure the playlists for each hour are in order and you forgot to organize them one evening. The mistake may have caused a headache for people trying to do their airshifts, however, you can look at the mistake two ways.
One way would be to look at yourself as a total failure who doesn't deserve the job and should quit.
Another way to look at it would be to realize you made an error, that mistakes do happen and find a positive way to make sure it happens again like creating checklists, writing a reminder to organize the playlists or setting a designated time each week to put it all together.
If you look at the glass being half full, you can take a mistake and learn from it.
By taking a positive approach to your daily tasks and big projects, you can find different ways to look at the positive outcome of a situation versus a negative one. It's noticeable when someone has a positive attitude and how you approach a project, mistake or situation can help determine the course of action you can take and the outcome. If you have a positive attitude, it will be contagious.
When you are in certain places, how often do you notice someone with a bad attitude versus a positive attitude? For example, how many times have you gone to a restaurant where your server didn't say much to you, didn't want to talk to you or didn't care that he or she made a mistake? When that happens, you are left with the impression that the person had a bad attitude, didn't care and didn't want to be there.
When turning it around, how many times have you been at a restaurant where the server took time to talk to you, carefully took time to get your order correct and cared whether or not the food was prepared well and was served on time? Chances are, you were left with the impression that this person had a positive attitude, cared about his or her guests and wanted to do a good job. By being positive and showing care and concern, you were probably left that this person has a positive attitude.
Not all situations are positive but going in with the right attitude can help you get through them. For example, if you are a college student with a 25 page paper to write, the task is not an easy one but how you approach it can make a difference. If you keep saying to yourself that writing it is impossible, you won't get a good grade no matter what and it's too much time, chances are, that will show up in your work and hinder your grade. If you look at it the other way and think that you will learn the material better by writing the paper, you will create a strategy to outline your paper so it is organized and believe you can get a good grade, it will help you believe in yourself and get through the process. How you look at the situation can help determine the path you will go towards reaching your goal.
Even though we still will have bad days from time to time (or bad weeks), how you look at the situation surrounding you can determine the outcome later on. Making mistakes can be frustrating but taking a positive approach can help you learn in the future. For example, let's say you work for your campus radio station and you are in charge of making sure the playlists for each hour are in order and you forgot to organize them one evening. The mistake may have caused a headache for people trying to do their airshifts, however, you can look at the mistake two ways.
One way would be to look at yourself as a total failure who doesn't deserve the job and should quit.
Another way to look at it would be to realize you made an error, that mistakes do happen and find a positive way to make sure it happens again like creating checklists, writing a reminder to organize the playlists or setting a designated time each week to put it all together.
If you look at the glass being half full, you can take a mistake and learn from it.
By taking a positive approach to your daily tasks and big projects, you can find different ways to look at the positive outcome of a situation versus a negative one. It's noticeable when someone has a positive attitude and how you approach a project, mistake or situation can help determine the course of action you can take and the outcome. If you have a positive attitude, it will be contagious.
Sunday, February 13, 2011
Taking Time To Thank Those Who Have Been Good Friends Along The Way
Having friends is key to being happy in life and chances are, you probably have had a few that have gone beyond what you expected. These may be people who stood up for you at key times, went above and beyond to help out or was a lending hand when you needed it the most. Either way, we all have friends who have helped us at one point or another and make sure to give thanks.
Even though it might sound simple, not everyone takes time to say thank you for a good deed or helping out. Forgetting to show appreciation could offend someone who went out of his or her way to help out and may not be as responsive to assisting you in the future. Taking a few moments to say thank you will help build a relationship with this person and make them more receptive in the future.
As a way to say thank you, writing a note is always helpful and can be done in several ways. You could send a handwritten thank you note (which usually is a nice touch), send an e-greeting as a thank you (a creative touch) or a gift card with a note inside. These are different ways to say thank you and show appreciation.
In addition to thank you notes, there are other ways in which you can thank a person for assisting you or being a good friend along the way. If you are into sports, inviting a person to a sporting event can be a nice touch and this can be done with concerts or other events. You could also return the favor by helping out with a project or cause your friend is apart of. These show you care about the friendship and are willing to return the favors when needed.
Somewhere along the way, we have had good friends help us out and as a way to maintain a friendship, it's best to find different ways to say thank you.
Even though it might sound simple, not everyone takes time to say thank you for a good deed or helping out. Forgetting to show appreciation could offend someone who went out of his or her way to help out and may not be as responsive to assisting you in the future. Taking a few moments to say thank you will help build a relationship with this person and make them more receptive in the future.
As a way to say thank you, writing a note is always helpful and can be done in several ways. You could send a handwritten thank you note (which usually is a nice touch), send an e-greeting as a thank you (a creative touch) or a gift card with a note inside. These are different ways to say thank you and show appreciation.
In addition to thank you notes, there are other ways in which you can thank a person for assisting you or being a good friend along the way. If you are into sports, inviting a person to a sporting event can be a nice touch and this can be done with concerts or other events. You could also return the favor by helping out with a project or cause your friend is apart of. These show you care about the friendship and are willing to return the favors when needed.
Somewhere along the way, we have had good friends help us out and as a way to maintain a friendship, it's best to find different ways to say thank you.
Monday, February 7, 2011
Taking Time to Know Others: Another Lesson in Building Rapport!
In order to build a relationship with someone, time has to be spent towards getting to know the other person and his or her interests, passions, etc. Taking time to get to know someone may sound hard but if done properly, can lead to a great friendship and awesome memories. By taking a few simple steps, a great relationship can be started by getting to know the other person.
By taking time to know someone else, you are giving a reason for the other person to trust you and develop a relationship. When you first meet someone new, it might be easy to provide your own verbal autobiography, however, it's better to show an interest in the other person and learn more about him or her. Taking time to boast about yourself may be a turnoff to some and may come across the wrong way. Taking time to show you want to learn about someone else can help develop a relationship and start a great conversation.
If you are new to a company, taking a few moments to get to know the people you will be working with can help develop trust and relationships with your coworkers. Distracting them during their daily routine may not always be the best way to develop a conversation but taking time to sit with them during lunchtime or taking a few moments to say hello before the day gets started can help. Take a few moments to say hello to these people, learn about their interests and passions and it will mean a lot that you are showing an interest in getting to know other people.
If you are on a college campus, taking time to say hello to those you come across on a regular basis and getting to know these people can help as well. During my freshman year at Otterbein, I started calling the basketball games for the Otterbein women's basketball team for the campus radio and TV stations and became friends with the girls because they took the time to get to know who I was. Outside of basketball, a lot of the girls on the team would take time to say hello to me on the way to class, in the lunchroom and even in the library and the focus wasn't on my announcing or the game; a lot of these girls took time to get to know me as a person! As a result, I developed some great friendships out of this that continued through to my senior year and beyond. It meant a lot to me that these girls took time to know me as a person and I was able to build great friendships as a result of this kindness.
Getting to know someone may take a little time, however, it isn't as hard as it seems. By taking time to know the person sitting across from you or those you interact with, you can develop trust and relationships through this method.
By taking time to know someone else, you are giving a reason for the other person to trust you and develop a relationship. When you first meet someone new, it might be easy to provide your own verbal autobiography, however, it's better to show an interest in the other person and learn more about him or her. Taking time to boast about yourself may be a turnoff to some and may come across the wrong way. Taking time to show you want to learn about someone else can help develop a relationship and start a great conversation.
If you are new to a company, taking a few moments to get to know the people you will be working with can help develop trust and relationships with your coworkers. Distracting them during their daily routine may not always be the best way to develop a conversation but taking time to sit with them during lunchtime or taking a few moments to say hello before the day gets started can help. Take a few moments to say hello to these people, learn about their interests and passions and it will mean a lot that you are showing an interest in getting to know other people.
If you are on a college campus, taking time to say hello to those you come across on a regular basis and getting to know these people can help as well. During my freshman year at Otterbein, I started calling the basketball games for the Otterbein women's basketball team for the campus radio and TV stations and became friends with the girls because they took the time to get to know who I was. Outside of basketball, a lot of the girls on the team would take time to say hello to me on the way to class, in the lunchroom and even in the library and the focus wasn't on my announcing or the game; a lot of these girls took time to get to know me as a person! As a result, I developed some great friendships out of this that continued through to my senior year and beyond. It meant a lot to me that these girls took time to know me as a person and I was able to build great friendships as a result of this kindness.
Getting to know someone may take a little time, however, it isn't as hard as it seems. By taking time to know the person sitting across from you or those you interact with, you can develop trust and relationships through this method.
Thursday, February 3, 2011
Developing Friendships Can Help Open Up New Opportunities
At all stages of life, having friends who will stand beside you, be in your corner and be there for you will help you get through different points in your life. Having people who will be with you through the good times and the rough will always provide a sense of comfort and enjoyment to your life. Having these people in your life is always something to be grateful for and developing these relationships can help pave the way for opportunities.
If you are a college student, take time to get to know the people in your dorm, the people you participate in other activities with, the people in your Greek Life organization, etc. You may never know how you will meet some of your best friends during these four years and take time to develop some of these relationships that are meaningful to you. Take time to help these people out, support them and give them a reason to develop the friendship with you.
During those four years, you may never know where you will meet some of your best friends. I met one of my best friends from college while watching an Ohio State football game in the lounge of the dorm, met another while doing a community service project that wasn't quite what I had expected, and became close friends with others who stood behind me at key times and I naturally clicked with. There will be times in which you know you will develop a deeper friendship with someone and these will be the friendships that will last for a long time beyond your college years. Don't be surprised if the friendship starts in the most unexpected place or instance; take time to let it grow.
Beyond your college years, take time to develop relationships with those you meet during networking events, other social functions and different events. Similar to your college years, some of your best friendships may develop through unexpected paths. I met a good friend of mine while at my dad's company picnic one year (we both found out we enjoy hockey a lot), have met some other friends through networking events, and have developed a relationship with others through mutual connections. If you feel a great friendship can develop, take time to learn more about these people, enjoy common interests and let these relationships grow.
Having friends in life is a must but finding them and letting them grow is important. Some of the best friendships may come out of the most unexpected places but can create a friendship that can last a long time.
If you are a college student, take time to get to know the people in your dorm, the people you participate in other activities with, the people in your Greek Life organization, etc. You may never know how you will meet some of your best friends during these four years and take time to develop some of these relationships that are meaningful to you. Take time to help these people out, support them and give them a reason to develop the friendship with you.
During those four years, you may never know where you will meet some of your best friends. I met one of my best friends from college while watching an Ohio State football game in the lounge of the dorm, met another while doing a community service project that wasn't quite what I had expected, and became close friends with others who stood behind me at key times and I naturally clicked with. There will be times in which you know you will develop a deeper friendship with someone and these will be the friendships that will last for a long time beyond your college years. Don't be surprised if the friendship starts in the most unexpected place or instance; take time to let it grow.
Beyond your college years, take time to develop relationships with those you meet during networking events, other social functions and different events. Similar to your college years, some of your best friendships may develop through unexpected paths. I met a good friend of mine while at my dad's company picnic one year (we both found out we enjoy hockey a lot), have met some other friends through networking events, and have developed a relationship with others through mutual connections. If you feel a great friendship can develop, take time to learn more about these people, enjoy common interests and let these relationships grow.
Having friends in life is a must but finding them and letting them grow is important. Some of the best friendships may come out of the most unexpected places but can create a friendship that can last a long time.
Sunday, November 28, 2010
Building Relationships Can Start With Finding Common Ground
Taking time to build relationships is key and can be done in several different ways. Taking time to keep in touch and learning about others are a couple of different ways to build relationships but finding common ground and interests can be an excellent way to develop a relationship with someone. Finding a hobby or common interest with someone can lead to building a stronger relationship with that person.
When trying to develop a relationship with someone, finding a common interest is a great starting point for finding time to bond and socialize with that person. For example, I am a huge hockey fan and one really good friend of mine shares the same passion for the game. When I first met this person, we found this common ground and built our relationship by going to games with one another. During this time, I was able to socialize with my friend, learn more about him and have developed a great friendship with him as a result. We often go to games each year and have a great friendship as a result of that.
Even though sports can be a common ground, other interests can help create similar friendships. For example, if you have an interest in fishing and come across someone with that same interest, going out for a fishing outing with this person can be a great way to develop that friendship. If you enjoy scrapbooking, inviting someone with that same interest to a scrapbooking party can help you create a stronger bond with that person. The sky is the limit and finding that common ground with a particular hobby can be a great way to develop that relationship.
Finding common ground is key in develop a relationship but taking time to enjoy it with another person can help strengthen that friendship for the future. Whether your interest is in sports, fishing, photography or anything else, finding that common ground can pave the path for developing that relationship.
When trying to develop a relationship with someone, finding a common interest is a great starting point for finding time to bond and socialize with that person. For example, I am a huge hockey fan and one really good friend of mine shares the same passion for the game. When I first met this person, we found this common ground and built our relationship by going to games with one another. During this time, I was able to socialize with my friend, learn more about him and have developed a great friendship with him as a result. We often go to games each year and have a great friendship as a result of that.
Even though sports can be a common ground, other interests can help create similar friendships. For example, if you have an interest in fishing and come across someone with that same interest, going out for a fishing outing with this person can be a great way to develop that friendship. If you enjoy scrapbooking, inviting someone with that same interest to a scrapbooking party can help you create a stronger bond with that person. The sky is the limit and finding that common ground with a particular hobby can be a great way to develop that relationship.
Finding common ground is key in develop a relationship but taking time to enjoy it with another person can help strengthen that friendship for the future. Whether your interest is in sports, fishing, photography or anything else, finding that common ground can pave the path for developing that relationship.
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
Taking Time To Learn About Others is Key in Building Relationships
In business and in your personal life, having relationships and friends can provide support and encouragement. It's important to have those who will be in your corner, lend a shoulder to cry on when needed and be a good sounding board when you need one. Relationships can be beneficial and can be built by taking the time to learn about the other person.
As a way to build a relationship with someone, it's important to take time to learn about the person sitting across from you instead of giving them your verbal autobiography. Taking time to understand the other person's interests, needs, and values shows you care and provides reason for the relationship to develop. Showing an interest in what's important to the person you are building a relationship with will set you apart from so many other people.
Developing relationships and taking time to learn about others does take practice but can be done. You can practice by talking to your neighbors at home. the people you work with, the people you interact with at your favorite restaurants or coffee shops, etc. When you interact with these people, take time to show interest in their day, what they are currently up to and you might be surprised how a conversation and relationship can develop.
During my college years, one of the ways I practiced learning about others is by taking time to ask the cafeteria people, my classmates, my professors, the people who worked in the bookstore, etc. how their days were going and listening to what these people had to say. By taking time to simply ask, "Are you having a good day?" or "What have you been up to lately?" and listening to their responses, it set me apart because I took time to show I cared about the person I was asking the question to. It made me a more familiar and friendly face on campus and I was able to make a lot of friends as a result of this.
Building relationships is key but how you go about doing it is important as well. Take time to learn about others and it can open up more doors then you can imagine.
As a way to build a relationship with someone, it's important to take time to learn about the person sitting across from you instead of giving them your verbal autobiography. Taking time to understand the other person's interests, needs, and values shows you care and provides reason for the relationship to develop. Showing an interest in what's important to the person you are building a relationship with will set you apart from so many other people.
Developing relationships and taking time to learn about others does take practice but can be done. You can practice by talking to your neighbors at home. the people you work with, the people you interact with at your favorite restaurants or coffee shops, etc. When you interact with these people, take time to show interest in their day, what they are currently up to and you might be surprised how a conversation and relationship can develop.
During my college years, one of the ways I practiced learning about others is by taking time to ask the cafeteria people, my classmates, my professors, the people who worked in the bookstore, etc. how their days were going and listening to what these people had to say. By taking time to simply ask, "Are you having a good day?" or "What have you been up to lately?" and listening to their responses, it set me apart because I took time to show I cared about the person I was asking the question to. It made me a more familiar and friendly face on campus and I was able to make a lot of friends as a result of this.
Building relationships is key but how you go about doing it is important as well. Take time to learn about others and it can open up more doors then you can imagine.
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
Plan to Succeed
Ideas for businesses are always plentiful but some of the most creative ideas can end up in failure as a result of failing to take time to do one simple part of the process; creating a plan!
Having a great idea for a business or knowing what you want to achieve in your career is great but you need to carefully build the ladder that will get you to the top. Not taking time to construct how you will go about executing your ideas could hinder your flight to success.
If you are looking to start a business, taking the necessary time to plan is crucial for success. Researching the industry takes time but will allow you to understand your competition, how to create your market niche and develop the types of products you want to sell. This also will help you define who your target audience is and can help you set the stages for creating a successful marketing plan to reach these people.
Though it can be expensive at times, creating a marketing strategy as part of your business plan will be crucial to your success. If people don't know about the product you are selling, how are they supposed to purchase it? How are you going to alert your target audience your product fills their needs? How will you create a brand name that will resonate with potential customers? These are all questions you need to ask when developing your business plan.
Planning for success can often be seen when expansion teams enter professional sports leagues. Owners for these teams have to plan how to build a team that will be competitive in the league they are playing in, how to reach the target audience, and drive fans into their stadiums or arenas. These teams need to plan how to build a team from scratch to winner in a few seasons, develop a brand name through creative marketing strategies and develop a loyal and consistent fan base. The team will need to win on the court, field, ice (if you are playing hockey), create a name that is easily remembered and develop a fan base to be successful.
While starting up a business requires planning, developing your career and where you want to go takes planning as well. Taking the necessary steps to plot where you want to go in your professional career and how to get there takes dedication and time but can pay off. Do you want to eventually reach a management position? What will it take for you to earn a promotion? What can you do to become one of the best workers in your company? These are all questions people ask themselves and the answers can help pave the way for a plan to help them reach their goals.
An example that can used to explain comes from watching one of my heroes, former Orioles third baseman Cal Ripken Jr., during and after his career as a professional baseball player. After being drafted out of high school, Ripken wanted to make the Orioles roster and created a plan to help get him there. He created offseason training plans to help hone his skills, he played winter ball to get him more experience playing professionally and solicited the advice from veteran players who had been in his shoes before. As a result, Ripken was able to hone his skills and had a career in which he broke Lou Gehrig's record for most consecutive games played, made the All-Star team 19 times, won a World Series, and made it into the National Baseball Hall of Fame on the first ballot. Ripken's plan for his career worked and paved the way to success.
During his playing days, Ripken knew he wasn't going to play forever but planned for his life beyond baseball. He started to develop Ripken Baseball Inc. which is a program designed to help grow the love of baseball to others and has created other charitable foundations. Ripken listened to others along the way during his playing career and helped set many of these foundations in motion while serving as an active player. By the time he had retired, Ripken's plan started to take shape and he successfully created a life for himself outside of baseball.
Taking the time to plan is crucial and even though it can be exhausting, it can pay off in the end. In order to get to where you want to go, you need to know what you need, what will get you there and the right direction to go in.
Having a great idea for a business or knowing what you want to achieve in your career is great but you need to carefully build the ladder that will get you to the top. Not taking time to construct how you will go about executing your ideas could hinder your flight to success.
If you are looking to start a business, taking the necessary time to plan is crucial for success. Researching the industry takes time but will allow you to understand your competition, how to create your market niche and develop the types of products you want to sell. This also will help you define who your target audience is and can help you set the stages for creating a successful marketing plan to reach these people.
Though it can be expensive at times, creating a marketing strategy as part of your business plan will be crucial to your success. If people don't know about the product you are selling, how are they supposed to purchase it? How are you going to alert your target audience your product fills their needs? How will you create a brand name that will resonate with potential customers? These are all questions you need to ask when developing your business plan.
Planning for success can often be seen when expansion teams enter professional sports leagues. Owners for these teams have to plan how to build a team that will be competitive in the league they are playing in, how to reach the target audience, and drive fans into their stadiums or arenas. These teams need to plan how to build a team from scratch to winner in a few seasons, develop a brand name through creative marketing strategies and develop a loyal and consistent fan base. The team will need to win on the court, field, ice (if you are playing hockey), create a name that is easily remembered and develop a fan base to be successful.
While starting up a business requires planning, developing your career and where you want to go takes planning as well. Taking the necessary steps to plot where you want to go in your professional career and how to get there takes dedication and time but can pay off. Do you want to eventually reach a management position? What will it take for you to earn a promotion? What can you do to become one of the best workers in your company? These are all questions people ask themselves and the answers can help pave the way for a plan to help them reach their goals.
An example that can used to explain comes from watching one of my heroes, former Orioles third baseman Cal Ripken Jr., during and after his career as a professional baseball player. After being drafted out of high school, Ripken wanted to make the Orioles roster and created a plan to help get him there. He created offseason training plans to help hone his skills, he played winter ball to get him more experience playing professionally and solicited the advice from veteran players who had been in his shoes before. As a result, Ripken was able to hone his skills and had a career in which he broke Lou Gehrig's record for most consecutive games played, made the All-Star team 19 times, won a World Series, and made it into the National Baseball Hall of Fame on the first ballot. Ripken's plan for his career worked and paved the way to success.
During his playing days, Ripken knew he wasn't going to play forever but planned for his life beyond baseball. He started to develop Ripken Baseball Inc. which is a program designed to help grow the love of baseball to others and has created other charitable foundations. Ripken listened to others along the way during his playing career and helped set many of these foundations in motion while serving as an active player. By the time he had retired, Ripken's plan started to take shape and he successfully created a life for himself outside of baseball.
Taking the time to plan is crucial and even though it can be exhausting, it can pay off in the end. In order to get to where you want to go, you need to know what you need, what will get you there and the right direction to go in.
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Saying Hello and Taking Time To Know Others: A Lesson From NHL Star Mark Messier
"How are you doing today?"
When going into your office or workplace everyday, how difficult is it to ask that to those who work with you? Asking someone how his or her day is going is really not difficult to do and can help build your relationship and trust with that person.
On a daily basis, you can simply go into your office or workplace and not really take the time to get to know your teammates and others that work in your office. You can simply go in, do what you have to do, and leave for the day but how can you build relationships with these people if you don't take the time to get to know them? If you come across as if you don't care, how do you expect these people to respond to you when you need them the most?
Taking a few minutes to get to talk to others isn't as hard as it seems. Simply saying, "Hello, how are you doing?" to others you work with and listening to the responses can really mean a lot to the person you are conversing with. It's not everyday that someone within your management team will say hello and get to know the people who work alongside you or at other parts of the company so saying hello and taking time to know the person you are talking to can make a difference.
Being a lifelong hockey fan, one of the best examples I can provide is what NHL Legend and Hall of Famer Mark Messier (pronounced Mess-EE-ay) did when he was a member of the New York Rangers. Messier knew he could just walk into the practice rink or Madison Square Garden on a nightly basis and not really talk to anyone but his teammates. He simply could have walked in, did what he had to do, and walked out at the end of the day but he didn't.
While serving as team captain, Messier took time everyday to say hello to those who worked in the Rangers front office, Madison Square Garden and many others as he walked into and out of the arena. Messier understood that taking time out of his day to ask others how their days were going showed he cared. These people felt more comfortable around Messier and found it easier to talk to this NHL Legend because he took the time to know them as people and showed he cared. As a result, Messier is still considered to be on of the most beloved New York Ranger and NHL players of all time because off his willingness to learn about others and show he cared.
Taking time out of your day to know others isn't that difficult and it will show others you work with that you care. Sparing just a few minutes of your day to check in on how another worker or person is doing can make a difference and build a relationship with that person. You can practice by asking the people working in your local coffee shop, favorite restaurant or other gathering places how their days are going and you will be surprised how meaningful it is to them that you are taking time to get to know them. Once you do that, take time at work to do the same and you will start to see a difference.
When going into your office or workplace everyday, how difficult is it to ask that to those who work with you? Asking someone how his or her day is going is really not difficult to do and can help build your relationship and trust with that person.
On a daily basis, you can simply go into your office or workplace and not really take the time to get to know your teammates and others that work in your office. You can simply go in, do what you have to do, and leave for the day but how can you build relationships with these people if you don't take the time to get to know them? If you come across as if you don't care, how do you expect these people to respond to you when you need them the most?
Taking a few minutes to get to talk to others isn't as hard as it seems. Simply saying, "Hello, how are you doing?" to others you work with and listening to the responses can really mean a lot to the person you are conversing with. It's not everyday that someone within your management team will say hello and get to know the people who work alongside you or at other parts of the company so saying hello and taking time to know the person you are talking to can make a difference.
Being a lifelong hockey fan, one of the best examples I can provide is what NHL Legend and Hall of Famer Mark Messier (pronounced Mess-EE-ay) did when he was a member of the New York Rangers. Messier knew he could just walk into the practice rink or Madison Square Garden on a nightly basis and not really talk to anyone but his teammates. He simply could have walked in, did what he had to do, and walked out at the end of the day but he didn't.
While serving as team captain, Messier took time everyday to say hello to those who worked in the Rangers front office, Madison Square Garden and many others as he walked into and out of the arena. Messier understood that taking time out of his day to ask others how their days were going showed he cared. These people felt more comfortable around Messier and found it easier to talk to this NHL Legend because he took the time to know them as people and showed he cared. As a result, Messier is still considered to be on of the most beloved New York Ranger and NHL players of all time because off his willingness to learn about others and show he cared.
Taking time out of your day to know others isn't that difficult and it will show others you work with that you care. Sparing just a few minutes of your day to check in on how another worker or person is doing can make a difference and build a relationship with that person. You can practice by asking the people working in your local coffee shop, favorite restaurant or other gathering places how their days are going and you will be surprised how meaningful it is to them that you are taking time to get to know them. Once you do that, take time at work to do the same and you will start to see a difference.
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