Our world is so full of connectivity. Connectivity has gone from wired to wireless. Funny how the more wireless we become, the more connectivity craved we become. I am a fan of the efficiencies that wireless phones, wi-fi connections, and wireless cards have created for me. These tools are an attraction to many of us, however they also bring risk of unattraction to us. How many times has the presence of your wireless phone taken your attention off of something you should be giving your undivided to? When was the last time you were engaged in an important conversation with someone and as soon as your phone rang/buzzed you went for it like a play-starved retriever? Then you stare at the screen for 2 seconds and decide if you are going to answer it or not (how nice of us to at least think about remaining engaged in our in-person conversation). During those 2 seconds, your personal connection with your audience decreases greatly. If you elect to answer the incoming call or email for that matter, you stab your audience and send a bad signal.
Yes, if you are expecting a very important call or email, let your audience know ahead of time with an advanced apology. This way they know they are still a priority to you.
Tomorrow when you are connecting with another person (friend, subordinate, co-worker, boss, WIFE/HUSBAND). Leave your wireless devices behind. If you must have it with you and it starts ringing, ignore it. When your audience says "Aren't you going to get that?" you can simply say "of course not, I would rather be talking to you!" That simple statement enhances your connection and the momentary existence of the other person.
After all, that very wireless device has many tools of its own crying out for you to use them more: voice mail, silent feature, call fwding to your assistant and my personal favorite "the power button."
If you're like me in this, becoming an ace with this will take discipline and practice. To help you get started, next time you are meeting someone, leave your device in the cup-holder. The fact that you do not have your phone with you will reveal your interest in the other person.
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