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Comments
04.09.09
I was having a conversation with a friend I hadn't seen in a long time. As she tried to catch me up on her life, I realized with embarrassment that I knew all of these things about her already, because I'd been lurking on her facebook page. But she didn't know I knew them. So I decided on a new policy for myself - no lurking on peoples' pages without actually making direct contact with them. It's just creepy to know that much about someone when you haven't seen them in a year, and to know people I don't even talk to know those things about me.
I've had similar experiences professionally. As a freelance writer, I spend a lot of time interviewing people over the phone or via email. So I decided to start meeting in person with at least one of the people I was interviewing for every article - either for the interview or afterward (when I already knew something about them and what we might have in common.)
It was the best decision I've ever made. It constantly expands my network, and people I've met in person are so much more likely to follow up down the road. Not to mention if we run into one another in public, we recognize each other and can be introduced to each others acquaintances.
04.09.09
Important post Stuart and well said. I would add one additional concept important in global business...don't assume everybody will be like you. Recognizing the diversity among people and ensuring your first meeting demonstrates your empathy for differences is critical for success. For example, make sure you don't ask a devout Muslim for lunch through Ramadan or arrive to meet a Japanese Salary-man and casually toss him your business card. Such ignorant behavior may put you back further than if you had just stayed behind your computer screen! By taking time to understand better the cultures, customs and norms of all peoples with whom we need to build relationships, we stand the best chance of making them productive ones. As the world gets increasingly smaller, it may well be understanding this simple courtesy that will really separate the Gen Y winners and losers of the future.
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