I recently set out to make individual connections with each of my 3,000+ contacts I currently have on LinkedIn. Like many, I took most of them for granted; perhaps a congratulations on a new position of Happy Birthday but seldom beyond. I knew a few personally but many I have never met, connecting only because they asked or I thought that I should reach out to them because who they are or what they they do.
It takes a forced level of isolation to begin to understand the importance of being and staying connected. To date I have sent message to only about 750 individuals. In response I have heard back from about 115, a much higher percentage thanI anticipated. Many responded with just a simple 'Thank You' or "I am doing fine, how about you." Others spent considerable time crafting a more detailed of complete reply. Throughout this journey, so far, I have begun to understand that we need to be connected as humans and that we appreciate it when someone does reach out. I am excited to continue my journey and reach more of my connections, no matter how long it takes.
I encourage you to find a way to reach out to others yourself! I would love to hear from you and will respond as I can.
