Making that human connection stronger

At the last FPDA Industry Summit, attendees heard Tim David speak about human connections, something that is increasingly overlooked in today’s technology and social media-soaked world. He explained how research has shown that the more real, physical, in-person connections you have in your life, the better. And that means not just at home, but at work, as well.

Here are some of his top takeaways, which will hopefully inspire you to put down that mobile device and go speak with someone as soon as you finish reading this!

• About 85% of your financial success is due to your personality, your ability to communicate, negotiate and lead. In other words, people skills. You won’t get that from electronic devices, you’ll only develop it over time through person-to-person interactions.

• People are increasingly becoming addicted to their smartphones. David highlighted a survey which showed when people are willing to take out their phone and be interrupted by technology. 49% percent said during a meal, which probably wouldn’t surprise most people. But 24% said while in the bathroom. If you’re in a meeting, 22% are willing to do so. And an amazing 11% of people are willing to be interrupted by their cell phone during sex.

• What you don’t focus on gradually disappears over time. This includes human empathy — the ability to know what other people are thinking and feeling. Ask yourself what that means for business? To provide any semblance of customer service, you need empathy … just as you do for sales and marketing. Plus, leadership is something that is improved with empathy. Studies have shown this, experience has shown this: life is improved with empathy.

• Remember to use people’s names, early and often. Coke has recently used this magic word in their marketing, with people’s names on their cans. People are driven to make decisions by the sound of their own name. As Dale Carnegie said, “Remember that a person’s name is to that person, the sweetest and most important sound in any language.” When you’re writing, start every email with their name. When you’re addressing them face to face, to have the impact, use people’s names. FPW

Paul J. Heney | VP, Editorial Director