What Are Friends For?
Today, modern technology allows for us to make hundreds, or even thousands, of social network “friends” by merely adding their names to our list of computer or mobile phone contacts. And when we wish to end one of these “friendships,” we simply delete that person’s name from our list of contacts. However, true friendship still eludes many. In fact, one recent survey revealed that although we are socializing more, the number of our truly close friends has decreased in number.
Like most people, you probably agree that good friends are important to you. You may also recognize that there is more to being a friend than simply clicking links on a computer screen or your Smartphone. What do you look for in a friend? How can you be a good friend? What does it take to forge a lasting friendship?
Consider this:
First identify for yourself the reasons you want to pursue a friendship. Remember that you are looking for friends, not prospects. Prospecting may be a side reason, but if it is your only reason, it becomes a hidden agenda. Think in terms of what you value in a friend.
True friendship involves commitment. In other words, a good friend feels a responsibility toward you, and he really cares about you. Of course, such commitment is two-way, and it requires hard work and sacrifice on both sides. But the rewards are worth the effort. Ask yourself, ‘Am I willing to give of myself, my time, and my resources for my friend?’ Remember, to have a good friend, you first need to be a good friend.
Communicate:
A true friendship cannot flourish without regular communication. So talk together about the interests you share. Listen to what your friend has to say, and respect his opinions. Whenever possible, commend and encourage him. At times, a friend may need advice or even correction, and that may not always be easy to give. However, a loyal friend will have the courage to point out a serious fault and offer tactful guidance. Children are naturals at friendship; so watch and learn from their techniques. Children always have a tendency to ask questions if they want to know something. They walk right up to each other and make eye contact and ask. Their minds and intentions aren’t cluttered; they simply go out and get acquainted. Wasn’t that the case when you were a child?
Our friends are not perfect, but neither are you. Therefore, we should never expect or demand perfection from the people we befriend. Rather, it is good to cherish their virtues and to make allowances for their mistakes.
Be selective about the people you befriend. But that does not mean narrowing our choice of friends to those of a certain age or upbringing. Taking an interest in people of all ages, their cultural backgrounds, and nationalities, this can truly enrich our lives.
To Think about:
Your friendships influence how you think and act. So it only makes sense to be selective about whom you befriend on a social network. Some accept dozens or even hundreds of friend requests from people they hardly know—or do not know at all. Others discover that not all on their list of friends are good associates. A “fair-weather friend” isn’t much help either during times of struggle and crisis, but even one loyal supporter can make a world of difference. You don’t have to have the answers or even the “right” words — just be available to a friend in need. You may be the eye of the hurricane for that person.
Food for thought:
A survey by Consumer Reports revealed that many social network users “take risks that can lead to burglaries, identity theft, and stalking. Fifteen percent had posted their current location or travel plans, 34 percent posted their full birth date, and 21 percent of those with children at home had posted those children’s names and photos.”
So be careful when choosing your friends. Always choose wisely!
Good health to you!
- Listen!
Carol McCall tells us “There’s a world waiting to be heard.” Your ears are better tools for building friendships (and for Networking) than your mouth. Next time you want to really impress someone, listen more than speak. The results may amaze you.
- Give generously.
Be generous with your knowledge by sharing information that is of use to others. Give of yourself by paying close attention when people speak to you. Offer lavish praise when you catch someone doing a great job.
- Keep the old.
While you’re making new friends, be sure to keep connected with old friends, too. Get in the habit of reaching out with a phone call, an email message, or a card to let your friends know that you’re not too busy to care about them.
Practice the above strategies for friendship, and you’ll find they translate well into professional Network Marketing habits, too.
Fast Fact
By October 1999, only 60 CEOs had lost the confidence of their corporations during the year’s business. The picture in October 2000 was much different: 129 CEOs got pink slipped.
US News & World Report
