Making the Connection: Genuine Professional Relationships

Most people think building strong professional relationships takes big, impressive moments, but in reality, it’s the small, consistent actions that make the biggest impact.In this episode of Making the Connection, I sit down with Susan Collins, founder of The Network Concierge, for a thoughtful and refreshingly practical conversation on what it really takes to build meaningful professional relationships–especially in a remote-first world.Susan shares simple but powerful strategies for staying connected, from tracking personal milestones in your calendar to the underrated impact of a well-timed handwritten note. We talk about how small, intentional actions can turn everyday interactions into lasting relationships.Our conversation expands into the realities of remote work, where visibility, communication, and trust play a critical role in career growth. Susan offers actionable advice for both team members and leaders: how to create “virtual water cooler” moments, build trust through consistent communication, and foster a culture where mistakes are openly discussed—not hidden.Drawing from her years in talent acquisition and executive coaching, Susan also dives into the deeper work behind career growth. She shares how patterns and behaviors can hold professionals back, why self-awareness matters more than we think, and what it really looks like to let go of the habits that once made us successful in order to grow.We dive into:How to build genuine relationships through small, intentional actionsStaying visible and connected while working remotelyCreating trust and accountability on remote teamsWhy making space for mistakes leads to stronger leadershipIdentifying and breaking patterns that limit career growthThinking ahead: how to approach long-term career planning with intentionThis episode is a reminder that strong relationships (and strong careers) aren’t built on big moments, but on consistent, thoughtful connection over time.To learn more about Susan’s work, check out: https://www.thenetworkconcierge.com/—-------Tune in to Making the Connection every other week to learn about how to develop genuine professional relationships.Stay in touch with host, Angela Chong, on LinkedIn & on Instagram @ makingtheconnectionpodcast

How do you build genuine professional relationships—especially in a remote or digital work environment?In this episode of Making the Connection, I sit down with Melinda Lee Schmitt, author of Rebel Hugger, to explore how vulnerability, authenticity, and emotional connection can transform the way we show up at work.After completing a year-long experiment hugging thousands of strangers, Melinda shares what that experience taught her about human connection—and how those same principles apply to professional relationships, leadership, and workplace culture.Together, they discuss:How to build authentic relationships at work (even remotely)The role of vulnerability in professional settingsHow to set healthy boundaries without damaging relationshipsMoving from people-pleasing to self-acceptanceHow to handle difficult coworkers and misaligned working stylesWhy listening—both to what’s said and unsaid—is a key leadership skillWhether you’re a founder, part of a marketing team, or navigating corporate life, this conversation offers practical insights on building stronger, more human connections in the workplace.If you’re looking to improve communication at work, strengthen professional relationships, or create a more connected team culture, this episode is for you.To learn more about Melinda’s work, check out: https://melindaleeschmitt.com/—-------Tune in to Making the Connection every other week to learn about how to develop genuine professional relationships.Stay in touch with host, Angela Chong, on LinkedIn & on Instagram @ makingtheconnectionpodcast

In a world where so much of our work happens through screens, building genuine professional relationships can feel harder than ever.In this episode of Making the Connection, I sit down with Cathy Baillargeon, Owner and Chief “Cathy” Officer of Virtual Cathy, to talk about what real connection looks like in a virtual-first workplace. We explore how relationships are built on commonality, not surface-level networking, and why showing your personality early can completely change the tone of a professional relationship.We also dig into delegation — not as a weakness, but as a skill that takes practice — and what it really means to build trust, rapport, and culture on a remote team.In this episode, we cover:What creates genuine connection in professional relationshipsWhy impactful questions matter more than small talk (especially virtually)How to show personality without oversharingThe mindset shifts required to successfully delegateHow to build trust and rapport with virtual assistants and remote teamsPractical tips for getting started with a VA the right wayWhether you’re hiring support, managing a virtual team, or simply trying to build better professional relationships, this conversation is full of thoughtful, practical takeaways you can apply right away.

On this episode of Making the Connection, I sit down with Lynn Whitbeck, sales strategist and relationship-driven leader, to explore what it truly takes to build genuine professional relationships—especially in sales.Lynn shares her philosophy of leading with “worthy intent,” why curiosity and care matter more than closing tactics, and how long-term relationships can turn clients into promoters—even when a sale never happens.We also dive into:How to build authentic relationships in sales without feeling transactionalNavigating personality clashes and repairing trust when things go sidewaysWhy thinking like your customer unlocks better results and deeper trustProviding real value without giving everything awayReframing sales from short-term wins to long-term partnershipsThis episode is a must-listen if you believe connection should always come before conversion.To learn more about Lynn’s business, visit: https://strategicsalesqueen.com/—-------Tune in to Making the Connection every other week to learn about how to develop genuine professional relationships.Stay in touch with host, Angela Chong, on LinkedIn & on Instagram @ makingtheconnectionpodcast

In this episode of Making the Connection, Angela sits down with Devin, a strategic growth consultant and author of Connection Expansion, to unpack what it really takes to build genuine business relationships in today’s remote-first world.Devin breaks down his Connection Expansion System—an approachable, repeatable framework for networking, nurturing relationships, and scaling your business through people, not pressure. From how to structure a connection meeting, to why giving value freely actually accelerates growth, to the magic of making three meaningful introductions, Devin shares the exact process he uses to generate consistent opportunities and authentic connections.Whether you’re struggling to book meetings without feeling salesy, want to build a stronger referral network, or simply want to deepen your relational skills in an AI-driven era, this conversation is packed with actionable, human-centered insights you can implement immediately.You’ll learn:What a strategic growth consultant actually doesHow to structure a high-impact connection meetingA simple system for booking and nurturing authentic networking callsWhy generosity and curiosity outperform sales scriptsHow community building is evolving—and why it matters now more than everTune in for a refreshing, practical conversation that proves meaningful connections are still the most powerful growth strategy in business today.

On this episode of Making the Connection, I chat with Michelle Westfall, broadcast journalist turned podcast producer and the creative force behind Universal Orlando’s official podcast. Michelle shares her journey from doing morning announcements as a kid to producing large-scale podcasts with major entertainment teams—and how staying authentic, dropping ego, and trusting your gut has shaped her career.We also dive into:How to make authentic professional connections without feeling transactionalBehind-the-scenes stories of launching and producing Universal Orlando’s podcastThe power of empathy, compromise, and trust in building synergy across large teamsNavigating challenges in corporate environments while staying true to yourselfLessons from mentorship and experiences that propel your career forwardTo learn more about 52Launch, visit https://www.52launch.com/—-------Tune in to Making the Connection every other week to learn about how to develop genuine professional relationships.Stay in touch with host, Angela Chong, on LinkedIn & on Instagram @ makingtheconnectionpodcast

Happy Shoutout FriYAY, where my guests have the opportunity to "shout-out" colleagues or bosses who have left a lasting impression on them in the way they genuinely connect with others.This week is David's turn! And don't forget to listen in to our awesome convo!Happy FriYAY!!—-------Tune in to Making the Connection every other week to learn about how to develop genuine professional relationships.Stay in touch with host, Angela Chong, on LinkedIn & on Instagram @ makingtheconnectionpodcast

How do you build genuine professional relationships that truly last—and lead teams effectively while doing it? On today’s episode of Making the Connection, I sit down with David Jones, a seasoned leader with years of experience guiding hundreds of team members. We dive deep into the principles of trust, servant leadership, and authentic connection in the workplace.David shares practical strategies for:building trust quicklycoaching leaders to care for their teamsidentifying what flourishing looks like for individuals both personally and professionallythe balance between personal vulnerability and professional boundarieshow to leverage personality frameworks like Working Genius without putting people in a boxWhether you’re leading a team, building your career, or simply looking to deepen your professional relationships, David’s insights provide a roadmap for connecting with people in a genuine, impactful way.To learn more about Mission Advancement, visit https://missionadvancement.com/To learn more about Booster, visit https://boosterthon.com/—-------Tune in to Making the Connection every other week to learn about how to develop genuine professional relationships.Stay in touch with host, Angela Chong, on LinkedIn & on Instagram @ makingtheconnectionpodcast

Happy Shoutout FriYAY, where my guests have the opportunity to "shout-out" colleagues or bosses who have left a lasting impression on them in the way they genuinely connect with others.This week is Rita's turn! And don't forget to listen in to our awesome convo!Happy FriYAY!!—-------Tune in to Making the Connection every other week to learn about how to develop genuine professional relationships.Stay in touch with host, Angela Chong, on LinkedIn & on Instagram @ makingtheconnectionpodcast

In this episode of Making the Connection, I sit down with longtime colleague and friend, Rita Richa, for an energizing conversation about building genuine professional relationships. Rita brings not only wisdom but also tangible strategies for anyone looking to expand their network with purpose.She shares how she shifted her mindset from “finding a window” to “finding the people who will open doors,” and why genuine connections—without expectation—are the real drivers of career growth. She breaks down actionable ways to connect both virtually and in person, from attending the right networking events, to leveraging LinkedIn and online communities, to using creativity and experimentation as relationship-building tools.You’ll hear Rita’s personal stories—from her early days experimenting with podcasting before she even knew it, to negotiating her way into conferences with a media pass. Along the way, she offers practical tips for maintaining relationships without being transactional, and why values like fun, creativity, and experimentation should guide the communities we choose to be part of.To learn more about Rita's business, visit https://reignitemedia.onepage.me/—-------Tune in to Making the Connection every other week to learn about how to develop genuine professional relationships.Stay in touch with host, Angela Chong, on LinkedIn & on Instagram @ makingtheconnectionpodcast

Welcome to my first solo episode of Making the Connection! I’m Angela Chong, and today I’m diving into something I care deeply about: empathy—especially in the remote and hybrid work environments so many of us live in today.After nearly 10 years of working remotely, I’ve learned that building strong professional relationships takes more than just good intentions. Emotional intelligence (EQ) is key. In this episode, I share why empathy is more than being “nice”—it’s about creating space for trust, safety, and real connection, even when we’re separated by a screen.There are small but powerful ways we can lead with empathy in our day-to-day work—through tone, timing, thoughtful communication, and being more intentional with how we check in with each other. 🎧 Talking points in this episode:Why empathy is a business advantage, not just a nice-to-haveThe role of emotional intelligence in remote collaborationHow to communicate thoughtfully over Zoom, Slack, and emailPractical ways to build a culture of connection, one interaction at a timeIf this resonates with you—or if you have your own stories about empathy at work—I’d love to hear from you. Find me on LinkedIn or Instagram @makingtheconnectionpodcast and let’s keep the conversation going.Thanks so much for listening—and until next time, keep connecting.Resources Mentioned:Catalyst Report HBR HBR Books about Empathy  (not mentioned but thought this would be helpful)

Happy Shoutout FriYAY, where my guests have the opportunity to "shout-out" colleagues or bosses who have left a lasting impression on them in the way they genuinely connect with others.This week is Laura's turn! And don't forget to listen in to our awesome convo!Happy FriYAY!!—-------Tune in to Making the Connection every other week to learn about how to develop genuine professional relationships.Stay in touch with host, Angela Chong, on LinkedIn & on Instagram @ makingtheconnectionpodcast

In this episode of Making the Connection, we’re joined by Laura Hancock—attorney, entrepreneur, and most recently, the Senior Franchise Closing Specialist for Casago—for a candid and insightful conversation about what it really takes to build genuine professional relationships across industries.Laura walks us through how she’s built and maintained meaningful connections throughout her career: from practicing law to launching and selling a successful business, to now leading multiple teams at a national education company. With warmth and real-world wisdom, we’re talking about the power of showing up consistently, the value of reaching out “just because,” and how we can stay visible without feeling like we’re overselling ourselves.We discuss:Relationships take time and consistent effort, regardless of remote, hybrid, or in-person work environmentsThe importance of doing what you say you’ll do and offering help—not just asking for itHow to nurture relationships without needing to meet in personStaying in touch with a simple call, text, or message “just because”Using LinkedIn and social media to keep relationships warmEmpowering team members to share ideas and shape strategyIf you’ve ever felt unsure about how to keep our networks alive without a system, how to navigate big career shifts, or how to promote your work without the cringe, this episode provides relatable stories and practical strategies to move forward with confidence.To learn more about Laura’s business, visit https://casago.com/—-------Tune in to Making the Connection every other week to learn about how to develop genuine professional relationships.Stay in touch with host, Angela Chong, on LinkedIn & on Instagram @ makingtheconnectionpodcast

Happy Shoutout FriYAY, where my guests have the opportunity to "shout-out" colleagues or bosses who have left a lasting impression on them in the way they genuinely connect with others.This week is Hani's turn! And don't forget to listen in to our awesome convo!Happy FriYAY!!—-------Tune in to Making the Connection every other week to learn about how to develop genuine professional relationships.Stay in touch with host, Angela Chong, on LinkedIn & on Instagram @ makingtheconnectionpodcast

In this episode of Making the Connection, we’re joined by Hani Gera, global marketing and business development partner with Synterica for a thoughtful conversation about building real, lasting relationships in the B2B space.Hani shares why being authentic, listening deeply, and respecting cultural nuances matter far more than scripts or shortcuts. We unpack why B2B should really be thought of as Business to Business to Person and how seeing the human behind the title is non-negotiable for meaningful connection.We discuss:The balance between patience and persistence in relationship-buildingWhy an engaged audience of 200 beats an unengaged list of 1,000How to adapt your approach across different global culturesThe power of listening over pitchingWhy it’s better to walk away from the wrong client than close a bad-fit dealWhat “giving value” actually means on platforms like LinkedInHow webinars, podcasts, and panels can turn cold leads warmWhy direct messages shouldn’t be your first moveThis conversation is a grounded reminder that long-term business success starts with respect, trust, and generosity, not manipulation or hustle culture. Tune in for practical insights that will shift how you think about connecting in business.To learn more about Hani’s business, visit https://synertica.com/—-------Tune in to Making the Connection every other week to learn about how to develop genuine professional relationships.Stay in touch with host, Angela Chong, on LinkedIn & on Instagram @ makingtheconnectionpodcast

Happy Shoutout FriYAY, where my guests have the opportunity to "shout-out" colleagues or bosses who have left a lasting impression on them in the way they genuinely connect with others.This week is Marla's turn! And don't forget to listen in to our awesome convo!Happy FriYAY!!—-------Tune in to Making the Connection every other week to learn about how to develop genuine professional relationships.Stay in touch with host, Angela Chong, on LinkedIn & on Instagram @ makingtheconnectionpodcast

In this episode of Making the Connection, we’re joined by marketing expert and fractional CMO, Marla Malkin for a rich conversation about building professional relationships that go far beyond the surface. With over two decades of experience as a business owner and strategist, Marla shares how leading with authenticity, generosity, and long-term thinking has helped her form meaningful partnerships—both within organizations and across industries.From fostering collaboration across siloed departments to turning industry peers (yes, even competitors) into trusted allies, Marla offers practical, grounded advice for anyone navigating today’s fragmented, digital-first work environment. We discuss:What makes a strong strategic partnershipWhy you shouldn't be afraid to network within your own industrySimple ways to build connection with your team—even virtuallyHow to choose the right networking groups without spreading yourself thinThe launch of Marla’s new national networking organization for high-level professionalsHow to maintain lasting relationships across cities, roles, and decadesWhether you're a team leader, entrepreneur, or independent consultant, this episode will inspire you to show up more meaningfully and collaborate more effectively. Tune in and learn how to build relationships that last—no sales pitch required.To learn more about Marla’s business, visit https://malkinmarketing.com/—-------Tune in to Making the Connection every other week to learn about how to develop genuine professional relationships.Stay in touch with host, Angela Chong, on LinkedIn & on Instagram @ makingtheconnectionpodcast

Happy Shoutout FriYAY, where my guests have the opportunity to "shout-out" colleagues or bosses who have left a lasting impression on them in the way they genuinely connect with others.This week is Ike's turn! And don't forget to listen in to our awesome convo!Happy FriYAY!!—-------Tune in to Making the Connection every other week to learn about how to develop genuine professional relationships.Stay in touch with host, Angela Chong, on LinkedIn & on Instagram @ makingtheconnectionpodcast

In this episode of Making the Connection, we’re joined by Ike Ubasineke, Founder of the app, Growdie, and the Grow or Die Club. He fully understands that connection doesn’t just happen—it’s built, one intentional moment at a time. After launching his business and realizing that leadership can be a lonely road, he set out to create a space where authenticity, support, and consistency are the norm—not the exception.We explore how categorizing relationships into roles like mentor, mentee, and friend can help you manage your energy, why being yourself (online and off) builds trust faster than anything else, and what it really takes to lead with your team instead of above it. From navigating burnout to building emotional resilience, this conversation is full of heart, hard-won wisdom, and practical insights you can start using right away.Whether you're leading a team, growing a business, or just trying to build deeper connections in your work life—this one’s for you.To learn more about Ike’s business and app, check out his website: https://growordie.club/—-------Tune in to Making the Connection every other week to learn about how to develop genuine professional relationships.Stay in touch with host, Angela Chong, on LinkedIn & on Instagram @ makingtheconnectionpodcast

Happy Shoutout FriYAY, where my guests have the opportunity to "shout-out" colleagues or bosses who have left a lasting impression on them in the way they genuinely connect with others.This week is Penny's turn! And don't forget to listen in to our awesome convo!Happy FriYAY!!—-------Tune in to Making the Connection every other week to learn about how to develop genuine professional relationships.Stay in touch with host, Angela Chong, on LinkedIn & on Instagram @ makingtheconnectionpodcast

Networking isn’t just about collecting contacts—it’s about building real, meaningful connections that open doors in unexpected ways.In this episode of Making the Connection, host, Angela Chong, sits down with the dynamic Penny Rose (CPA), who has mastered the art of networking through conferences, online communities, and unexpected spaces. They discuss the power of showing up consistently, the impact of remembering names and personal details, and why leading with value is the best way to build lasting professional relationships. Remember, the best opportunities come from the strongest connections—so don’t be afraid to talk to that person next to you in line! To learn more about Penny Rose, CPA, check out her website at https://mombizkidstrategy.com/legacy-launchpad—-------Tune in to Making the Connection every other week to learn about how to develop genuine professional relationships.Stay in touch with host, Angela Chong, on LinkedIn & on Instagram @ makingtheconnectionpodcast

Happy Shoutout FriYAY, where my guests have the opportunity to "shout-out" colleagues or bosses who have left a lasting impression on them in the way they genuinely connect with others.This week is Teddy's turn! And don't forget to listen in to our awesome convo!Happy FriYAY!!—-------Tune in to Making the Connection every other week to learn about how to develop genuine professional relationships.Stay in touch with host, Angela Chong, on LinkedIn & on Instagram @ makingtheconnectionpodcast

What makes a truly connected, high-performing team? In this episode of Making the Connection, Angela is joined by Teddy Cheek, Marketing Leader at The Escape Game. They sit down to explore how aligning teams around mission, vision, and values leads to deeper trust, better performance, and a more fulfilling workplace culture.Timestamps for your listening notes:[6:15] Why a strong mission matters more than perks[12:30] How hiring the right people creates natural team chemistry[18:45] The role of guest feedback in shaping company culture[25:10] Creating experiences that foster connection beyond the workplace[32:20] Lessons from immersive entertainment that apply to leadershipBook Recs:Unreasonable Hospitality by Will GuidaraRaving Fans by Ken Blanchard and Sheldon BowlesSetting the Table by Danny MeyerGood to Great by Jim CollinsThe Ideal Team Player by Patrick LencioniTo book your next Escape Game, visit their website at https://theescapegame.com/—-------Tune in to Making the Connection every other week to learn about how to develop genuine professional relationships.Stay in touch with host, Angela Chong, on LinkedIn & on Instagram @ makingtheconnectionpodcast

Happy Shoutout FriYAY, where my guests have the opportunity to "shout-out" colleagues or bosses who have left a lasting impression on them in the way they genuinely connect with others.This week is Kelsey's turn! And don't forget to listen in to our awesome convo!Happy FriYAY!!—-------Tune in to Making the Connection every other week to learn about how to develop genuine professional relationships.Stay in touch with host, Angela Chong, on LinkedIn & on Instagram @ makingtheconnectionpodcast

In this episode of Making the Connection, Angela is joined by Kelsey Ley, Leadership and Development Consultant at Kelsey Ley Consulting. They sit down to explore the power of self-reflection in building authentic workplace relationships. Kelsey shares how her own journey as a manager led her to discover the deep connection between leadership effectiveness and personal growth.Together, they dive into the challenges managers face in fostering strong team dynamics, from overcoming resistance to assessments to balancing boundaries and rapport. Kelsey offers actionable strategies for helping managers develop self-awareness, build trust, and create a culture where differences are honored and communication thrives.Timestamps for your listening notes:[1:00] The importance of self-reflection in building genuine connections[3:23] The role of assessments in management and team development[6:00] The misconception of quick relationship-building vs. the reality of consistent effort [9:12] Why managers should care about building relationships with their team[11:42] Perspectives on choosing to stay an individual contributor vs. pursuing management[12:30] The role of boundaries in leadership and how they serve different individuals[17:00] Avoiding black-and-white thinking in team dynamics[19:16] Having difficult conversations[26:51] Where to begin when something feels “off”To learn more about Kelsey, visit her website at https://www.kelseyley.com/—-------Tune in to Making the Connection every other week to learn about how to develop genuine professional relationships.Stay in touch with host, Angela Chong, on LinkedIn & on Instagram @ makingtheconnectionpodcast

Happy Shoutout FriYAY, where my guests have the opportunity to "shout-out" colleagues or bosses who have left a lasting impression on them in the way they genuinely connect with others. This week is Isabel's turn! And dont forget to listen in to our awesome convo!Happy FriYAY!!—-------Tune in to Making the Connection every other week to learn about how to develop genuine professional relationships.Stay in touch with host, Angela Chong, on LinkedIn & on Instagram @ makingtheconnectionpodcast

In this episode of Making the Connection, Angela is joined by Isabel Sterne, Founder of IsabelSterne.com Isabel shares her thoughts on the art of developing genuine professional relationships—on LinkedIn and beyond. She shares her journey of transitioning from traditional job networking to building meaningful connections as a solopreneur, and how showing up authentically transformed their professional brand.Whether you're new to LinkedIn or looking to elevate your engagement, this episode offers actionable strategies to help you connect with purpose, grow your network, and stay inspired.Timestamps for your listening notes:[2:37] Why LinkedIn is a powerful tool for solopreneurs [6:38] First step in connecting with others [9:47] Challenges of aligning brands with values [11:50] Infusing personalities  [16:10] Giving away expertise To learn more about Isabel, visit her website at https://www.isabelsterne.com/—-------Tune in to Making the Connection every other week to learn about how to develop genuine professional relationships.Stay in touch with host, Angela Chong, on LinkedIn & on Instagram @ makingtheconnectionpodcast

Happy Shoutout FriYAY, where my guests have the opportunity to "shout-out" colleagues or bosses who have left a lasting impression on them in the way they genuinely connect with others. This week is Danielle's turn! And dont forget to listen in to our awesome convo!Happy FriYAY!!—-------Tune in to Making the Connection every other week to learn about how to develop genuine professional relationships.Stay in touch with host, Angela Chong, on LinkedIn & on Instagram @ makingtheconnectionpodcast

In this episode of Making the Connection, Angela is joined by Danielle Desir Corbett, an entrepreneur, Founder and Mom who has mastered the art of building genuine professional relationships. Danielle shares her expert insights on securing sponsorships, crafting compelling pitches, and fostering authentic connections with clients and collaborators. She also opens up about the importance of finding the right coach and balancing work with personal life. Timestamps for your listening notes:[1:00] Creating sponsorship relationships[3:00] Attending conferences [3:45] How to cold-pitch for sponsors [6:00] Becoming concise  [7:10] Beginning the professional connection [8:50] How can I be of service? [10:12] Maintaining relationships [13:00] Finding a coach and mentor[15:00] Danielle’s coaching services  To learn more about Danielle, visit her website at https://danielledesir.com/—-------Tune in to Making the Connection every other week to learn about how to develop genuine professional relationships.Stay in touch with host, Angela Chong, on LinkedIn & on Instagram @ makingtheconnectionpodcast

Happy Shoutout FriYAY, where my guests have the opportunity to "shout-out" colleagues or bosses who have left a lasting impression on them in the way they genuinely connect with others. This week is Betsy's turn! And dont forget to listen in to our awesome convo!Happy FriYAY!!—-------Tune in to Making the Connection every other week to learn about how to develop genuine professional relationships.Stay in touch with host, Angela Chong, on LinkedIn & on Instagram @ makingtheconnectionpodcast

In this episode of Making the Connection, Angela is joined by Betsy Wallace, who brings a wealth of experience in balancing personal and professional lives, staying solution-oriented, and building authentic connections. Together, we explore the importance of “living in the solution” rather than getting stuck in workplace conflicts and drama.Timestamps for your listening notes:[2:55] Genuine connection with colleagues, and not over-sharing[8:40] Bringing your personality to work[11:55] First step in connecting with others[15:12] How to connect professionally with others online[19:12] Burning bridges vs. natural endings[23:00] Living in the Solution[28:42] Pro tip: Dont fight in the comments[35:50] What to do when someone isn't respectful—-------Tune in to Making the Connection every other week to learn about how to develop genuine professional relationships.Stay in touch with host, Angela Chong, on LinkedIn & on Instagram @ makingtheconnectionpodcast

Welcome to our first FriYAY Shoutout, where my guests have the opportunity to shoutout colleagues or bosses who have left a lasting impression on them in the way they genuinely connect with others. Mark went above and beyond and is shouting out 5 leaders! Happy FriYAY!!Learn more about Booster at www.choosebooster.com—-------Tune in to Making the Connection every other week to learn about how to develop genuine professional relationships.Stay in touch with host, Angela Chong, on LinkedIn & on Instagram @ makingtheconnectionpodcast

In this inaugural episode of Making the Connection, host Angela Chong speaks with Mark Norman, Vice President of Sales at Booster, about the delicate balance between art and science in building genuine professional relationships. Mark shares his insights on the importance of empathy in leadership, navigating difficult colleagues, and how to keep personal emotions in check when dealing with negativity in the workplace.Mark stresses the value of having a "soft heart and thick skin," allowing you to maintain empathy without taking criticism too personally. Through candid stories, he reveals how journaling, waiting before reacting, and seeking advice from trusted colleagues have helped him improve his approach to conflict resolution and professional communication.The conversation also explores:the importance of motivation in networking and leadership, where Mark challenges the typical "what can I gain?" mindset, encouraging professionals to focus on serving others instead. the need to balance relational art—like effective storytelling and public speaking—with organizational science, such as structured systems that ensure consistency in professional success.Resources Mentioned:How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale CarnegieLearn more about Booster at www.choosebooster.com—-------Tune in to Making the Connection every other week to learn about how to develop genuine professional relationships.Stay in touch with host, Angela Chong, on LinkedIn & on Instagram @ makingtheconnectionpodcast

Welcome to Making the Connection! A podcast for the WFH and remote professionals who still want to develop genuine professional relationships (and for all the other professionals who strive to do so, as well)!