While I’m not sure why, nor remember when I began receiving emails from 10 Best, I was intrigued and opened some. 10 Best, published by USA Today, compiles lists of ’10 best’ based on how readers vote. Per their recommendations, a few years ago, I enjoyed a lovely afternoon exploring Albuquerque’s Botanical Gardens. The Gardens exceeded my expectations.
I don’t always read or open their emails. Today’s email, “10 college sports traditions you voted best,’ caught my attention. I was curious and asked myself, “would any of these traditions connect with or complement ‘The Power of Connections?’
If I didn’t have a big case of writer’s block, I still would have read the article. I enjoy following college sports and love watching NCAA football and gymnastics.
Although I complied a list of newsletter topics, I didn’t feel like writing about networking basics. Thus, the writer’s block.
As mentioned, I was curious. I wondered “would any of these traditions connect with or inspire me to write about ‘The Power of Connections?’
When you ask and are ready to receive, it is given.
All are traditions that connect schools with their fans, their communities. Two date back to the early 1900s. Number 6, “The Little Three” talks about three lesser-known schools that have been playing each other for over 100 years.
I was truly touched by the top tradition, number 1, “The Hawkeye Wave.” Did you know the top floor of the University of Iowa’s Stead Family Children’s Hospital has an incredible view of the university’s Kinnick Stadium? It is ideal for pediatric patients who want to watch the game.
“At the end of the first quarter, everyone in the stadium turns to wave at the kids and families above them. For each home game, a ‘Kids Captain’ is selected from the pediatric ward, and they get to choose a song to accompany the Hawkeye Wave.” (10 Best)
You can read the Top 10 College Traditions here.
Can you imagine being a hospital patient and having over 70,000 fans, players and officials care enough to wave at you? “I see you. I care about you.” This is truly special and exemplifies ‘The Power of Connections.’
Connecting with others, networking, isn’t always “Hello, my name is Lisa. I sell pink widgets to people with purple polka dots. Who do you know? I promise I’ll quit shaking your hand if you buy from me or give me three referrals. Really, I promise.”
What traditions do you or your company have? Sharing them in an authentic, meaningful way will positively enhance your networking experience.
About me. I am the Chief Connections Officer at the West Valley Women Networking Association. This summer, the organization celebrated its 20th year of building business opportunities, connections and friendships for women in the community.
I am also a sensitive introverted professional who learned to network the hard way. It took me a long time to feel comfortable when networking. I want to help you connect with confidence, to feel good when networking. I invite you to subscribe to ‘Connect With Confidence -The Power of Connections’ ~Lisa Platt.
