The Tie That Binds

I spend countless hours each year interacting with entrepreneurs and professionals from a whole host of disciplines. Over time a pattern has emerged: the very best all understand the importance of connecting what they do to people’s emotions.

My observation probably began in earnest about a dozen years ago when my Evans Kurth Holdings Co-Founder, Kim Kurth, started explaining what she did as a Communications Coach/Media Trainer. In talking with her, I came to understand how powerful our communication becomes when we do it from a place of passion. Over the years, people have consistently noticed a change in me when I talk about providing opportunities for others (the thing I value most professionally). It is why the most effective sales people represent products they believe in and usually use themselves. 

Recently, I have been getting to know a lot of people and businesses as we build the foundation of a world class company.  A small number of the discussions have left me disappointed when it was time to part company. The commonality in the conversations I wished wouldn’t end, regardless of the discipline we were discussing, was it felt like I was talking to Kim. In some way, each of these individuals made it clear how what they do makes people feel is central to their success. 

Acting only works if you’re an actor. Yet actors most often portray characters they have researched and recite lines which have been carefully crafted. Daniel Day Lewis is said to have lived as Abraham Lincoln so he could connect to the emotions of the character. Sadly, Heath Ledger went so deep into the emotional dark side of The Joker, it apparently consumed him and was never able to fully detach himself from the role. 

We’re all looking to connect with someone, or something. As a business owner, co-worker, mentor or boss, our ability to authentically connect is what makes us the person others get excited to talk with or simply see.