Mindful Networking

Recently I read a book called The Lost Art of Good Conversation: A Mindful Way to Connect with Others and Enrich Everyday Life, by Sakyong Mipham. It seemed to be the missing link in between my leadership coaching practice, networking techniques and the practice of mindfulness.

“From a meditative point of view, the art of conversation is an engagement in mindfulness and, therefore, being present. Mindfulness is the act of noticing. It is not engaging in like or dislike; it is paying attention to being alive. Mindfulness begins with awareness of feeling.”

Mipham sets the tone for mindful conversation, interweaving mindful awareness, empathy and compassion. Some of the principles he mentioned echo Adam Grant's notion of "Giverish-ness" or Keith Ferrazzi's emphasis on generosity in networking. 

What struck me from Mipham's narrative, however, was simply the notion of slowing down and paying attention. It reminded my of my personal trainer, who always tells me to "go slow and savor" instead of rushing through the reps. 

Mindful networking involves returning to the breath, staying in the present, and being aware of the person we're talking to. Slowing down also helps us to come to terms with our own bias, so that we can stay curious and open to others who may be different from us. Being aware can help us to open to natural growth within community.