The Biggest Connection Mistake You Can Make

Every individual you meet holds the potential as a valuable connection. The real challenge lies in understanding how each person fits into your asset base of human capital. Casual connections, formal connections, business connections, referral connections, and networking alliances. All bring unique value to your professional network.

However, there is a significant mistake that many people make: prejudging others.

Prejudging others is a common pitfall that hinders effective connection-building. It often involves focusing on the negative aspects of someone rather than their positive attributes. This approach is a critical error in the quest for meaningful connections and can have a detrimental impact, especially in sales.

Salespeople frequently fall into the trap of prejudging potential clients. They form opinions based on superficial impressions and allow these biases to influence their entire sales presentation. This often leads to missed opportunities and sales failures when the prejudgment proves incorrect.

The key to overcoming prejudgment is simple: ask questions. OK, we all know salespeople who talk too much and never get beyond superficial questions.

But then I don't imagine you are like that. (see, I don't prejudge).

Engaging in meaningful dialogue allows you to uncover the other person's intentions, characteristics, and knowledge. By asking thoughtful questions, you gain a deeper understanding of their value and potential as a connection. This approach not only prevents prejudgment but also fosters an open mind, one of the most powerful assets in building strong connections.

My advice is to avoid the major mistake of prejudging others. Instead, focus on understanding each individual's unique value by asking questions and maintaining an open mind.

This strategy will help you build a robust network of valuable connections, ultimately contributing to your personal and professional growth.