Susan McPherson, regarded as one of the best-connected people in the social good world, shares strategies for building meaningful relationships, including offering something before making an ask and allowing others to make their own choices. They discuss the impact of generational differences on connecting and emphasize the importance of cross-generational connections. The guest also shares tools and strategies for making connections, including having a good memory and making personalized efforts. The hosts discuss embracing change and end with a lighthearted conversation about getting a puppy.
Building and investing in relationships is essential for personal and professional growth.
Connecting with others and focusing on how to be helpful creates more meaningful connections and contributes to a positive and inclusive atmosphere.
Deep dives
The Importance of Social Capital
In the podcast, Nicolette, the speaker's mentor, discusses the three types of capital: social, educational, and economic. She emphasizes that social capital, the relationships and connections we build, is the most important. The speaker reflects on the value of social capital, explaining how it provides support, job references, and opportunities. Building and investing in relationships is essential for personal and professional growth.
The Power of Connecting with Others
The guest speaker, Susan McPherson, stresses the significance of connecting with others. She highlights how many positive experiences in life are a result of connections made. Susan encourages a mindset of asking 'how can I be helpful?' when interacting with people. By focusing on how to support others, make introductions, and be of service, we create more meaningful connections and level the playing field, contributing to a more positive and inclusive atmosphere.
Nurturing Cross-Generational Connections
The episode discusses the value of building connections across different generations. It notes that younger generations, growing up with technology, might approach connections differently. However, there is a mutual benefit to fostering relationships between different age groups, as each can learn from the other. The guest speaker mentions the importance of being open to connecting with people who are different from ourselves, whether in age, race, religion, or gender, and suggests that such connections can lead to personal growth and a richer understanding of the world.
We’ve all heard the age-old phrase, “it’s not what you know, it’s who you know.” While being knowledgeable can keep you in a great role, your network can open doors to your next opportunity. Today’s guest, Susan McPherson, is regarded as one of the best-connected people in the social good world. She’s sat on the board of organizations like the UN Refugee Agency and the The Lower Eastside Girls Club. Her book, The Lost Art of Connecting, is a guide to building and maintaining great relationships, and how the first step might be taking yourself out of the equation.