Try a Surprise

The pandemic is relentlessly flipping our work and personal lives inside out. We miss the in-person meetings that make connecting so easy. People want to hear from you. Next time you want to reach out to a coworker, colleague, or anyone else, anywhere in the world, try a surprise.

In a recent coaching session, Maura mentioned that her dedication to virtual networking is starting to pay off. This time last year she had a dozen connections. She’s tripled that number by targeting potential mentors within her company, experts in a field she’s exploring, and former colleagues. Each time she reaches out and connects with someone around the country, she feels a boost in confidence. Thinking ahead to the end of the year, she planned to reach out and personally thank everyone for their insights, recommendations, and career advice. I asked her, "why wait? What can you do or share with someone that they’d enjoy or appreciate? Comment on their blog or social media post. Share an article or blog you read, a video you watched, or a podcast you tuned into." Maura paused, and, not an instant later, she had a company executive in mind and knew exactly which article she’d share with him that afternoon. 

When you discover something worth sharing, pass it on. Create a text or email that becomes a welcome surprise. Over time, every outreach renews your connection, keeps the lines of communication wide open, and contributes to creating a strong personal bond that can last for decades.

Who will you surprise today?