I remember hearing radio commentary years ago about a stolen car report in a very small town on the island of Molokai, and the deejays were both laughing on air about the incident. It wasn’t so much that the crime itself was insignificant, but that the thief and victim were probably related. Being part of a tight knit community is what people of Hawaii value. Whether we live in a large metro area or a quaint suburb, our community of friends and family is very closely connected. Individually, we can be facilitators of building community by helping others make connections. Here are three keys to making connections.
- Keep good relationships with everyone. There will always be people whom we disagree with on some level either personally or professionally. And though we may have a tendency to argue, it won’t benefit either party in doing so. Being respectful and kind even to those who see things differently will eventually lead to an opportunity to share your point of view.
- Engage in making connections. Though social media is a very common form of connecting with people, it doesn’t beat the old fashioned introduction. Formally introducing one person to another through a meeting or a meal is the best way to establish a good relationship. It also reinforces your value in the new relationship.
- Your continued involvement matters. It’s always good to follow-up with both parties to check on the progress of the relationship. If there is a lack of communication or mutual benefit, your input could help to ensure a successful connection. Otherwise, if it doesn’t work out, at least you’ll know whom they are most compatible with.
Being a builder of community and relationships is a rewarding and valuable experience for you and those you connect.
