When I was a child and someone new would move into the neighborhood, I remember Mom and the other neighborhood women welcoming them with home-baked goodies and an invitation to coffee. If it were near the holidays, you would get a sense that they were family, as the invitation to share at the table with us was always open.
I’ve always thought of technology and the provisions we have with social media to be much the same. We can enjoy a warm chat and a hot cup of coffee or tea. It’s a place of invitation to join me at my family’s table, so to speak. A few short years ago, some of these platforms were primarily for marketing purposes. Now, it has become much more. With the Holidays fast approaching, sharing with family and new and old friends allows us to share what this time of year means to each and every one of us, regardless of our beliefs.
I’ve heard lately that connections are the new currency. In my opinion, connections and relationships have always been valuable – with and without technology – and not just for the monetization of our business, but adding to the wealth of our personal lives. What social media and technology give us is the ability to sit, chat and connect easily with anyone worldwide.
It’s interesting to note that in this amazing time of connection, we have the freedom to know more about other cultures and share opinions and thoughts; unexpected doors open – ones that may not have been open before or that we didn’t even know existed. We can connect with anyone with any given talent or ability, process or product – just with the click of a button. How cool is that! How we show up in any of these places really isn’t any different than meeting someone in person, although we’re now able to do it continually, on a regular basis, 24/7.
More than any other time in history, we have the ability to not only create sustainable business, but also to create long standing and fulfilling friendships and partnerships. Whether you are new to social media or a seasoned online veteran, there are, in my opinion, several important things that make a difference in how we share up and show up.
1. Be Authentic. You can share the eyes of your soul and your light within, albeit digitally, and it might be virtual for the relationship and connection in the beginning, but it doesn’t mean it will stay that way. I’ve met hundreds of people in person that I once only knew online.
2. Smile. I know this sounds a little silly, right? People can feel the energy in your words. They have a sense of who you are by what you write. Even without a photo.
3. Collaborate. Your gifts are meant to be shared. Connections bring the right people to collaborate with – people who can help you spread your gifts in ways you never imagined.
4. Listen. There is a lot of noise out there with all of the postings, ads and photos. But if you listen, you will be able to respond to those that seek you, your gifts and your knowledge. They will be open to hear you beyond the noise, beyond the confusion.
5. Provide value. Regardless of what the reasoning is behind the connection you’ve made, you’ve created a friendship or impacted a business. I always say; exceed the perceived value. You will be rewarded.
As the Holiday season grows near, take this time to not only connect with family and friends but to reconnect with old friends, and make new ones anywhere in the world. And share your gift …We are waiting!
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