Invitations are powerful. All of us want to feel like our company is wanted and appreciated, that someone else enjoys spending time with us and wants us around. And all of us benefit from positive, meaningful connections!
Invitations work best when we're specific. "Would you like to go thrift-store shopping with me on Friday afternoon?" is much clearer than, "Want to hang out this weekend?"
Invitations work best when we're clear about our hopes or expectations, "Would you like to go for walk around Westwood tomorrow? I'd like to get to know you better."
And invitations work best when we can let go of the outcome. Trust that the people who are a good fit for you will make the effort to connect with you, even if they don't have time on that particular Friday or would prefer to sit and get coffee rather walk. Trust that the people that don't respond or always say no, maybe aren't the best fit for this season of your life. Either way, making the invitation gives you the best chance of a good connection or at least helpful information for next time.
Don't second-guess making the invite. Better to try and not have it pan out, than not try at all!
Don't assume people will be busy or don't want to. Remember, all of us appreciate being invited, even if we can't make it this time.
Don't take a "no, thanks" personally! Reach out again another time, or reach out to someone else.
So, who would you like to invite and what would you like to invite them to?
Happy connecting!
