About the Episode
If you do not know what it is that you are working on or what it is that you are working towards, you won’t be able to reach your destination. On the other hand, having a crystal-clear vision does not have to be your 10-year plan, nor does it have to be your “big hairy audacious objective.” Also, when you have a clear vision, you make it possible for someone else to have a generous attitude and make it possible for someone else to feel worthwhile. Therefore, one must possess a generous attitude and a mindset centered on giving and contributing value to become a connector.
Today’s guest on the Pursuit of Learning podcast is one of Forbes’ Top 25 Networking Experts, Michelle Tillis Lederman. She is the author of several books, including The Connector’s Advantage, The 11 Laws of Likability, Heroes Get Hired, and Nail the Interview – Land the Job. When Michelle was disillusioned by the lack of leadership and communication she encountered in corporate America, this was the beginning of her journey into the world of training and speaking. Moreover, Michelle is the founder and chief executive officer of Executive Essentials, which delivers tailored coaching and training programs in the areas of communication and leadership. Michelle is an expert in teaching individuals how to speak with confidence, clarity, and connection because she believes that genuine relationships are the key to achieving accurate results.
In our discussion today, Michelle points out that it does not matter what we are looking for – a job, a promotion, new clients, or a referral — the people we know and the people who know us will lead to chances. We discuss why building relationships and interacting with others is vital to our outcomes, success, and happiness. In addition, she elaborates on how inclusive connectors have a particular way of thinking and doing that facilitates more significant interactions and generates better workplaces. Most importantly, she explains how anybody can incorporate these thoughts and behaviors into their interactions and witness the impact it has on themselves and others.