The beauty of unexpected connections: Fabric tied to a bridge over the Haw River in Saxapahaw, NC.
This month has featured fun discoveries and renewed connections. I’ve caught up with former clients. A friend I haven’t seen in years visited just in time to offer excellent professional advice. (We also shared dark chocolate, laughter, and “girl talk.”)
I spent a birthday weekend getaway enjoying the surprising sights and sounds of nearby Saxapahaw, NC, thanks to my husband (see photo). I learned about a terrific book on “give and take” by someone I knew only briefly. Yet, meeting him made a profound difference in my life!
So… what do these events have in common, and why should you care? Let me explain.
I’ve already written about women and the heart of networking. Today, I’m recommending a male expert on networking: Adam Grant, author and Wharton School of Business Professor. He really walks his talk.
Full disclosure: Adam had a huge impact on me. We met a few years ago at the biz school in Chapel Hill. We got together a few times, during which Adam generously shared research and resources. Months later, Adam met his neighbor, Allison. He remembered my work, and urged Allison to contact me. Allison followed his advice. She became my friend, colleague, and a savvy matchmaker: Allison connected me with the guy who is now my husband! Networking and a short-term, “weak” tie with Adam eventually led me to a strong, lifelong commitment.
In one of the best articles I’ve seen on business networking, Adam notes that reaching out to “weak ties” and “dormant ties” may lead to the most rewarding outcomes. I agree wholeheartedly.
If you don’t know about Adam’s new book, Give and Take, I encourage you to take a look. Something unexpectedly good may happen if you think about his recommendations and put them into practice!
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