How do you feel about networking?

Do you see it as extra work you just don’t have time for? Or something you have to psych yourself up to do?

What if networking didn’t have to be ‘work’ at all? What if we reframed it as a way of being? A mindset that prioritizes meaningful connection with others?

One of Forbes Top 25 Networking Experts, Michelle Tillis Lederman is an accomplished speaker, trainer and coach. As the CEO of Executive Essentials, she works with organizations and individuals to help them build real relationships for better results.

Michelle’s impressive client roster includes Madison Square Garden, Johnson & Johnson and Michigan State University. She is also the author of four books, including The Connector’s Advantage: 7 Mindsets to Grow Your Influence and Impact.

On this episode of Workplace Forward, Michelle joins me to explore what it means to be a Connector, explaining how anyone can build the necessary skills and why diversifying connections gives us a competitive advantage.

Michelle walks us through the seven mindsets of a Connector, describing the spirit of generosity, openness and attitude of abundance that help Connectors cultivate strong relationships in our personal and professional lives.

Listen in for insight on maintaining connections as part of what you’re already doing and learn how to ask your network for help without putting relationships at risk.

Themes explored in this week’s episode:

• What it means to be a Connector and why Michelle prefers the term over ‘networking’
• The 7 mindsets of a Connector
• The impact of social isolation on our mental and physical health
• Why it’s advantageous to expand your network and be an Inclusive Connector
• Why a spirit of generosity serves as the foundation of connection
• How having a clear vision cultivates connection
• How to ask for help without putting relationships at risk
• Moving up the Connector spectrum through responsiveness, initiation, breadth and depth
• The natural strengths and stretches of introverts and extroverts when it comes to being a Connector
• How to be open and accepting of your own ‘unique charms’ without overleveraging them
• Michelle’s tips for maintaining connections as part of what you’re already doing

Resources from this episode: 

• Read along with this Workplace Forward Podcast episode's text transcript
• Subscribe to Michelle’s LinkedIn Newsletter
• Gift The Connector’s Advantage
• Take Michelle’s Connector Quiz
• Access Michelle’s Free Giftpack
• Visit Michelle’s Website or Executive Essentials
• Follow Michelle on Facebook
• Get your copy of The Connector’s Advantage and The 11 Laws of Likability
• Learn more about Sally Helgesen’s How Women Rise
• Explore Marshall Goldsmith’s What Got You Here Won’t Get You There

I would love to hear from you! Have an idea for a podcast or a question you want me to address? Interested in additional support, resources and workshops? Here are all the ways you can interact with me!

• Tweet me @TeganTrovato
• Email [email protected]
• Follow me on Facebook @BrightArrowCoaching
• Follow me on Instagram @TeganTrovato
• Connect with me on LinkedIn: Tegan Trovato
• Download free tools and sign up for my newsletter, coaching and workshops at  https://www.brightarrowcoaching.com/