Tip #8: Show Up.
This is the third and final week of a three-week series focusing on tips for interpersonal connections and networking. This week’s tip is the costliest as it requires an investment of your most irreplaceable asset…time.
I was once having coffee with a representative from a foundation I’d come to know on a professional and personal level. She was inquiring about a misstep I had taken in my career. As I gulped pride and coffee, she carefully nodded her head in consideration of what I was sharing. At the conclusion of my story, she angled her head and asked, “Katie, do you know what is great about you?” Internally, my less modest side quickly rattled off the possibilities she would state to affirm my redemption… my writing, academic pursuits, resilience… She went off my menu, though, and stated, “You always show up.”
Show up? Really? THAT Is the great thing about me?
My oversensitive side wondered if she was insinuating that I attended too many parties. Thankfully, she went on to explain that I’d created a strong social network by showing up for others. They would do the same for me.
Showing up is important. Show up to meet new connections and then show up for those new connections. That is how you build relationships. Go to your colleague’s events, patronize the businesses of your supporters, and be present for your team meetings. It’s not just a physical act, either. Send cards to donors, volunteers, and new introductions. Congratulate your contemporaries when they have achievements. Do for others as you hope they’ll do for you.
I hope you show up for the Intro to DO MORE GOOD + Networking Event this Thursday. Get your FREE tickets soon as we’re nearly sold out!
– Katie Appold
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