Who’s In Your Corner

PINK’s top women business leaders agree, it’s crucial to have a powerful network of advocates on your side. At the recent PINK Event – our distinguished speakers advised attendees to have multiple sponsors and mentors; not just one. But the question remains, how can women in particular cultivate new relationships, and nurture, sustain and deepen the ones they have? It’s not so easy – even when we’re not in the midst of a global Pandemic. While PINK’s next event on November 6^th is open to the public, socially distanced of course, there are few safe large gatherings. It’s hard these days to meet for coffee or lunch, or even to volunteer in person. And at most companies, nobody’s in the office at all!
 
Those surveyed during PINK’s recent Zoominar, “Who’s In Your Corner?” part of our monthly Conversations with Impact, found the biggest area of concern is Maintaining and deepening relationships according to 53% of attendees. That was followed by Having the confidence and energy to reach out at 41%. The lowest area of concern was Being authentic at only 6%.

Additionally, 67% of attendees said they are Somewhat uncomfortable when approaching someone who is crucial to their success. Few said they are very comfortable in this situation. And there were some heavy hitters in the Zoom!
 
So at least we know, we’re not alone.
 
PINK’s team of experts weighed in with some powerful guidance, demonstrations and success secrets to help. Special thanks to our experts: Sue Boehlke | President, MD Media & Events, Informa Tech; Adele Wang | Mentor, Author, Speaker; and
Montrella Cowan | Licensed therapist, Relationship expert.
 
Here are a few take-aways:
“Practice! Make yourself do it and you’ll become more comfortable,” suggested Sue Boehlke.

“Acknowledge where the other person is and let them know it’s OK,” offered Montrella Cowan.

“Be present and curious about the other person,” suggested Adele Wang.
Say, “Educate me,” offered Sue.
 
10 NUGGETS:

1. Be vulnerable and honest
2. Be interested in the other person – instead of trying to be interesting
3. Use technology to connect deeply
4. Be careful about what your Zoom picture shows in order to avoid judging others or being judged
5. Listening is more important than talking
6. Ask, “How can I support you now?”
7. Afterwards, follow up and follow through
8. Focus on quality not quantity
9. Own your ask. Don’t assume others know what you want
10. Avoid Yes/No questions to give the person an out. Say, “If you’re able to do xyz… that would be great.”

 
You can find a video recording of this Zoominar HERE