The Walk Around | Invest In People

From my own leadership journey, something I found very useful was what I call “the walk around.” I am the kind of person who gets things done and moves on to the next task as quickly as possible. Making sure deadlines are hit and increasing efficiency and quality are what I am known for.

This can make me unapproachable and distant. I seem to not care for people and only for the task at hand. This isn’t true, but perception can often become reality.

Recently, I was at a couple of jobs for a short time, but realized I gained deep relationships and connections beyond some I had cultivated at a job of over 5x the length! I started to ask why and came up with this answer; I walked around and talked to people.

I had made it a point to work on being more personable and caring in those environments and it paid off. Simply taking some time to walk around and talk to people, learn about their lives, encourage them and relate to them, that’s all it takes. You go from being ignored and not invited to things, to having so many people asking for your time and remembering you long after you leave.

It's powerful to be vulnerable and truly care about others AND show it! It won’t take much of your time either. Just go around when you need a break. Take 10 minutes when you feel stuck and get to know someone. Remember what you learn and really take time to invest.

It will pay dividends, I promise, ones that far exceed your productivity goals. You will have connection and relationship, priceless things.