Business has been and always will be built on the foundation of relationships. The most successful businesses grow from and are sustained by mutually-beneficial relationships. Your success is in direct proportion to your ability to connect with others. Humans, as social beings, must connect to survive and thrive, both professionally and personally.
With a Master’s Degree in Human Behavior and 20+ years of experience with personal development, Colette Carlson knows the difference between trendy topics and timeless truths when it comes to successful business and interpersonal practices. Colette inspires individuals to connect and communicate in real and relevant ways. How to create effective, lasting connections and leverage them for greater success is the thread woven into every one of her customized presentations.
Our spotlight this week is on Colette and here’s what she had to say about the power of connection:
What is the best way to connect in today’s fast-paced world?
Colette: Connection begins within and requires strong self-awareness, mindfulness, and time for reflection. After all, to understand other’s behaviors and attitudes, you must first understand yourself. Social awareness follows. True connection develops when you remain respectful in any and al situations. This requires clear, sincere communication combined with focused, empathetic listening. A warm smile and genuine interest in one another certainly helps!
What is your best strategy on overcoming conflict?
Colette: To connect deeply with others, you must first become comfortable with conflict. Individuals show up, behave, and react to events based on their own experiences and truths, so expecting everyone to simply get along is unrealistic. Leaders must show and coach others to recognize behaviors required to move through conflict and toward a productive solution. For example, remaining calm and respectful, choosing words that avoid shaming or blaming another, sticking to observable behaviors, and listening to learn are strategies towards overcoming conflict. During my programs, I provide a template for challenging conversations I call DEALTM. To build rich relationships that drive revenue and results, individuals must learn to deal with conflict, say what needs to be said with respect, and be equally open to hearing another’s perspective.
How does connection increase one’s ability to communicate?
Colette: People buy from, are influenced by, and want to work with people they know, like, and trust. That’s what connection is. It’s personal. It’s emotional. Without connection, communication in today’s information-overloaded, crowded, and competitive marketplace falls on deaf, distracted ears. Your ability to connect allows you to cut through the noise. Your ability to connect makes your message memorable. Whether you’re a leader, in sales, or on the frontline, clear, consistent communication is no longer enough to get results: connection must be part of the equation.
At the heart of every sale, every interaction between a leader and a team member, every conversation with a customer… is a connection. Colette’s programs evoke change and produce results! For booking information and to learn more about Colette’s programs, contact Michelle Joyce or visit www.MichelleJoyceSpeakers.com.
