Thinking back over the years I’ve spent with many great leaders, one thing stands out above the rest: great leaders introduce people to other people. They make connections.
You’ve probably experienced this as well. I remember my youth pastor connecting me to someone I refer to as Little Rick. His personality is huge and his heart for God is even bigger. I still run into Little Rick every so often and my heart is filled with joy every time we connect.
Photo by Hannah Busing on Unsplash
Or I think of Michael Hyatt and all the leaders he’s introduced me to. Some of those leaders are no longer around (RIP Dan Miller). Others are knocking it out of the part.
I still get such wisdom and insight from those he’s helped connect me with.
Who’s someone another leader has introduced you to? You probably feel an abundance of gratitude for those connections. They’ve helped you become not only a better leader but a better person.
Who Can You Introduce?
You’ve been the beneficiary of great connectors. Now, it’s your turn to introduce others to new people.
How do you introduce others? I think of this process:
Listen to those you lead:
You’ll be part of conversations where someone will mention a need, desire, or struggle. Upon hearing this, your mind may light up with the name of someone you believe can help them.
Jot down the name of the person you thought of, the need, and the person needing the assistance.
Touch base with the connection:
You’ve got the need and the name of the person you believe could help. Reach out to that connection. Give them a phone call, shoot them a text, or email them. Let them know you’ve been thinking of them. Then, let them know you have someone they should meet.
Make the connection:
If your connection responds they’d be willing to help, that’s what you’re looking for! It’s time to make the connection and grow someone’s network (which in turn grows their net worth).
Reach out to the person who shared their need or desire. Let them know you have someone you trust that can help them take the next steps. Share with them how the person has helped you, been a vital part of your leadership journey, or a reason they should connect.
You can now share the name and contact information of the connection with them. Tell them to reach out right away. It shows that they desire to grow and connect with the other person.
Great Leaders Are Great Connectors
I genuinely believe the best leaders out there are great connectors. They may not know everything but they do know the people who can get things done.
Because of their connections, they are constantly mingling, interacting, and making new connections that grow their network. Their growth coincides with the growth of others.
These leaders know their connections are not theirs alone. They’re a way to grow others and help them become more successful.
Think about this:
Who can you connect today?
