Relationships 101

As you may know, the end game of Message Advocate is all about relationships. Period. We need each other as fellow employees to collectively team toward a common goal, we need each other as clients, suppliers to drive the economy. No relationship=zero economy, profits and jobs.


Let's get basic: How many people bother to answer their phone--(without first screening the call); annoying? There's been an incredible proliferation of communication technology, and ironically the trend is more toward isolation. The "norm" (sadly) is becoming don't-bother-me and communication on my (less-than-personal) terms. Texting, email has it's place..but the root of it is people are literally becoming too overwhelmed and "afraid" to have an authentic conversation.


In the world of perspective, I don't find engaging other people as bothersome--it's an enriching experience...but only if you put down your guard a tad and become open to it.

Case in point: yesterday I was idly sitting in a clients lobby waiting for my client. I could have buried myself in a magazine, paperwork, smart phone check of emails (or played 'angry birds') but instead chose to say "hi" to the guy sitting across from me. Not only did I learn a thing or two about his business and their perspective on the economy, jobs etc. but after 5 minutes he reaches into his pocket, hands over a business card and says "I think you can help our organization; call me in a week or two".


As the above real interaction hints, relationships--of any kind--also tend to be born based on "timing"...fate is real; but you still have to do your part.

Consider how you met your spouse. Personally, I hate to confess there was a time (early 20's) that was a bit self absorbed. There wasn't any immediate need or desire for a 'relationship'. Young and single, things were "good" (and fun)...yet as life inevitably evolves, I learned that really wasn't very fulfilling and reaching out to bring another human into "my" world increasingly became desirable. Meeting my wife 3 years prior wouldn't have been a success, and when God put the master plan in action it wasn't exactly "love at first sight". As my wife has been known to say, "He sort of wore on me." Not the most ringing endorsement, but it's been 25 years--so something's right.


So here's the crux (twitter-esque version) of this blog. If you want to be successful you...

a) Need to put yourself out there, be a little vulnerable

b) View people as an opportunity to learn and be enriched by their knowledge, personality, experience, whatever. Humans are not generally bothersome; we're social creatures.

c) Breathe. When you relax you're better able to see the good around you.

d) Stick with it; many good things take some time. Persistence is nothing more than just extending a timeline of that immediate opportunity. (the positive view of "wearing them down" :)

e) Be respectful and empathetic


These simple concepts translate directly into the business environment; don't they? It is rare to encounter a potential client/supplier and immediately conduct some business. There's a dating, courtship period...followed with commitment...a honeymoon....and then, too often, waning attention.


Let's be open to a conversation how "message advocates" (aka: promotional items) can help capture immediate attention and open doors, develop a mutual business honeymoon...and sustain the emotion with goodwill, respect and gratitude. First you need to get noticed, then the substance can carry it forward...


If your view is "trinkets and trash" then be mindful that you "reap what you sow". It's just as easy to do things with a purpose and sincere objective....and if you lack purpose or objective; just keeping it sincere (like my impromptu lobby chat) will create unexpected rewards.

The holidays are coming--Let's be nice out there.