We live in a world of crazy schedules, demands, and responsibilities, both personally and professionally. In case you haven’t noticed, it doesn’t look like the world is slowing down any time soon.

Consider team members who have multiple kids in extracurricular activities during the week, or a team member who is biting off more than they can chew in an attempt to help another struggling team member.

It’s a simple fact that the average professional is bombarded with more obligations, responsibilities, and opportunities than they know what to do with. Like it or not, people are generally self-centered, but that doesn’t mean people are selfish. It simply means that anything or anyone that brings change into their life must benefit them in some way. Otherwise, they are resistant.

In order to build trust and know how to foster relationships that will bring an element of change to your life, it is imperative to consider WIIFM.

I love what Roger Dean Duncan said in his Fast Company article, In Times Of Change, “What’s In It For Me?” Is The Question You Need To Answer:

“When confronted with change, most people tune in to their favorite internal radio station: WIIFM–What’s In It For Me? It’s not that most people are selfish. It’s simply that personal context is usually the first filter we use to evaluate our environment. It’s especially true when we’re asked to participate in some sort of change.

What am I losing? Where are we headed? What will the new place look like? How will it be different from what I have now? What about the work flow? Who will be my teammates? What will be expected of me? What performance metrics will be used?

In other words, what’s in it for me?”

Connection Is Looking After the Interest of Others

When we recognize what’s in it for the other person, we can take a proactive step. We can serve and take a sincere interest in them. From here, we can discover that what’s in it for them isalso what’s in it for us.

To fully engage in this process, we need proactive communication. If we master this skill, imagine how much more effectively we can deepen our relationships with others.

ACTION:  One way you can grow in proactive communication is to join a like-minded group of people on journey together.

In steps White Collar Therapy.

White Collar Therapy is a growing network of Career-Minded Professionals, Business Leaders, Owners, and Aspiring Entrepreneurs committed to personal and professional growth – from the inside out. It consists of a bi-weekly show, a monthly group coaching webinar, a podcast, and a member group for networking and collaboration, along with other valuable resources.

To sign up as a FREE MEMBER click here.