Make the Connection

by Leah Evans, JRA Board

It all starts with a connection.

We all make connections somewhere. It might be with a newborn calf, a show heifer or even those gentle old cows that graze our pastures.

So, if we can make connections with cattle, we can make connections with people. Making the connections now will pay off in the long run.

So, have you made a connection with someone?

When I was in college, I completed an internship and made a strong connection with not just the company, but with the people I worked with over the summer. Since I built such a strong connection with the people, I ended up going back to the company and now work full time in the parts department.

Here are six ways that have helped me build connections.

1. Be your authentic self

You can’t go wrong with being your-

Engage with JRA!

Emma Ahrendsen, Iowa • jraemma@gmail.com

Peri Andras, Illinois • jraperi17@gmail.com

Leah Evans, Iowa • jraleah1@gmail.com

Natalie Evans, Illinois • jranatalie@gmail.com self. Pretending to be someone you aren’t can lead your relationships to be built on lies and cause confusion in the future. People make mistakes when they desperately want to fit in, but they forget that being yourself is how you make genuine connections.

2. Stay focused on the present

If you’re having a conversation with someone, your focus should be on them. You shouldn’t be looking at your phone or thinking about what you want for dinner. One of the best ways to learn how to connect with other people is learning to be present.

3. Be genuine with your admiration

Actively showing your appreciation for someone can put a smile on their face. You may even think that showering someone with admiration is a good foundation for a deeper connection. Compliments that were given without sincerity, however, are likely to make someone distrust you.

4. Be a good listener

Actively listening to people when they speak can tell you a lot about them. Think about how your conversations usually go with people: Do you interrupt their sentences? Are you judging them as they speak? Listening with an open mind lets you know them better. You also won’t need to ask them the same question twice or have them repeat themselves.

5. Maintain eye contact

Eye contact is one of the easiest ways to show someone you’re interested in what they have to say. Being attentive in this way will help the other person see you want to build a deeper relationship with them.

6. Offer a smile

The person you’re conversing with could be nervous or have social anxiety. Offering them a smile when you greet them or as the conversation progresses shows that you’re having a good time. It can also reduce stress and awkwardness for both of you. A smile initiates more positivity and makes people feel comfortable enough to open up more.

I am forever thankful for the connections I have made over the years!

I challenge you to make a connection with someone. It may be hard at first but in life we rely on people to help us out! It all starts with a connection! //

Cameron Ison, Kentucky • jracameron1@gmail.com

Mitchell VanderWal, South Dakota • jramitchell1@gmail.com

Kim Heller, Junior Program Coordinator • juniors@redangus.org

Save the Dates:

February 15 – College Scholarship Applications Due May 1 – JRA Board of Director Applications Due July 11-16 – Junior Red Angus Round-Up, Florida

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