When you’re networking – either in person or online – if you’re doing it right you’re trying to find something in common with the other person. You need to make a connection. Why? Because everyone prefers to do business with people they know, like and trust. We prefer to buy from them. We prefer to send referrals to them. It’s human nature.

How does this work?

Recently I was at a networking event talking to an accountant. We couldn’t be more different. I’m good at math but hate accounting. If I ever have insomnia, an accounting textbook would put me right to sleep.

He was analytical, detail oriented and a planner while I’m more likely to go by the seat of my pants. There wasn’t a real connection there.

Until I mentioned that I’m a big Blue Jays fan. Suddenly his face lit up as he told me that he checks the Jays website first thing every morning. Suddenly we were in a lively discussion about spring training and prospects for the coming season.

We’d made a connection.

That’s why when talking at a networking event or posting on social media, you can’t be all business. You have to show your human side … what makes you tick. It’s those little personality quirks that make us unique and allow us to connect with other people.

How do you connect?

Andrea J. Stenberg