Make a human connection, not a “quid pro quo” proposition
To make a “quid pro quo” proposition, from Latin, “something for something,” means reaching out to someone assuming that the other party needs something from you, for example, the business you might want to offer.
The statement has gained a negative meaning, but in the context of this article, I use it in its original meaning: to barter — a win-win exchange.
Motivation
When I lived in Chicago, I ran a Google Technology Developers Community. I organized and often presented at over a hundred conferences and developed a relatively large network of over 13,000 LinkedIn contacts.
I love having all these connections, but it comes with a burden, too; many people are reaching out with “cold” offers.
I want to interact with my social network in a more pleasant and beneficial way.
Cold contacts
People initializing cold contacts are usually hungry for quick success.
They think that if they get to the point quickly, they will appear professional and efficient and will not waste each other’s time.
I appreciate brevity. People who work with me know that I often say, “OK, let’s move on,” in meetings.
Yet, this “cold” approach to email communication and via Social Networks like LinkedIn, Meetup, etc., is wrong.
What do we care about?
I have quite a few people with whom I am happy to chat.
Here are my five characteristics of positive professional relationships:
1. Seeing Beyond Immediate Goals:
It’s essential to approach others as individuals, not as opportunities. Seeing beyond the immediate gains will foster a connection that leaves a lasting impression.
2. Sharing Personal Interests and Aspirations:
By opening up about our lives, we invite others to be similarly open, paving the way for mutual connection and understanding.
3. Asking the Right Questions:
Genuine curiosity makes us stand out. It shows we care about the person, not just the potential benefits. It gives the other person the pleasure of becoming a mentor. This is important as we all wish others would find us interesting and valuable.
4. Building Mutual Trust and Understanding:
Trust can’t be rushed. It’s cultivated over time and creates the foundation for deeper connections.
5. Respecting Each Other’s Time:
Our time is precious, as is that of others. Demonstrating respect for each other’s time underscores our sincerity.
Building trust relationships
Trust comes with profound rewards. Through the gradual development of the relationship and trust, our cold messages transform from white noise to welcomed communication with a trusted person.
Once the relationship and trust are established, it is natural to ask how I can help you, what company you work for, and so on.
Conclusion
In the end, successful networking is more about the quality of our connections than a quid pro quo exchange. While cold contacts may seem efficient, the time and effort spent in building genuine relationships yield far greater results. Our messages become not just another email to be ignored but a communication from a respected and trusted contact. Our networking truly blossoms in this space of trust and connection.
Please share.
Updated original:
https://uki.blogspot.com/p/quid-pro-quo.html
