By Jason W. Womack, MEd, MA
Productivity often is measured by output. What project did you finish? What product did you ship? At this time of the year, measure differently. Much of what you completed this year was dependent on the people in your (extended) networks. Beyond Facebook friends and LinkedIn contacts, these are people who influence goals and priorities and help you get things done.
If you’re planning to be even more productive in the year to come, there are two things to consider and act on as you build—and build up—your social and professional networks:
- Acknowledgment. Notice someone doing something amazing, outrageous, and positive. Tell them you see their brilliance. And look for ways to encourage them to step even further into their strengths and interests.
- Gratitude. Demonstrate that you understand how people rise to the challenge. Identify something you appreciate and write a thank you card. Something happens in those six minutes of thought. You go beyond acknowledgment and toward deeper connections with people when you thank them.
What you’ve done up to now has been important. In the year to come, add new people to your network, acknowledge the work they are doing, let people know you appreciate their effort. And watch what happens to everyone’s productivity and performance.
Visit http://amzn.to/bestbetter for Womack’s recently published book: “Your Best Just Got Better: Work Smarter, Think Bigger, Make More.”
For more information, visit http://www.womackcompany.com; www.twitter.com/jasonwomack; mailto:Jason@WomackCompany.com.