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Connected Relationships

"Enduring relationships are built on connectedness and a shared purpose of working together toward a common goal.  Every person has a life story they want to share with you, if you are open to hearing their story and sharing with them.  It is in sharing our life stories that we develop trust and intimacy with our colleagues.

Leaders who are open with people, even when sharing bad news or offering critical feedback, establish that sense of connection that builds commitment.  Trust is built and sustained in the depths of these relationships, and commitment is strengthened so that any obstacle can be overcome.  When pressures mount, relationships built on connectedness actually grow (George, 2003, p. 40-41)."

Are you building connected relationships?

Reference:  George, W. (2003).  Authentic leadership: rediscovering the secrets to creating lasting value.  San Francisco:  Jossey-Bass.

Authentic Leadership is available on loan from the Ohio State University Leadership Center.  To borrow this resource or any other resource please go to the resource search page http://164.107.48.88/winnebago/index.asp?lib=???

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Created: 2008-04-03, Updated: 2009-01-09