4 Tips to Nurture Your Relationships 🚀

Great questions to ask a mentor, how to engage successful entrepreneurs, strategies for keeping in touch, roles at Activision Blizzard, Wonder, NFX, and more!

What's up, Next Gen Fam!

In 1938, Harvard ran a study with hundreds of college students. The research became one of the longest running studies on adult life. What were the results?

The #1 indicator of someone’s happiness throughout life was the quality of their relationships. Not wealth or career success. Relationships.

This week, we're covering strategies to build and nurture your relationships at work and in life. Let's dive in!

TIPS

Show appreciation.

People love to feel appreciated and recognized. Let's say your friend is working tirelessly on a grad school application. It's clear that he really cares about getting in. You can show appreciation by saying: "With your focus, those schools will be lucky to have you. I mean that." When you know what someone truly cares about (such as grad school), you can appreciate them for it!

Be specific.

If you're asking for a favor, don't be vague. Imagine you're emailing with a mentor. The question — Can I get some career guidance? — is not easy for someone to answer. Instead, ask a specific question, like: What is one book you’d recommend for a senior interested in startups? If you want someone's help, make it easy for them to help you.

Start by adding value.

Let’s say there’s an entrepreneur you want to learn from. Don’t reach out with an ask, such as: Can you mentor me for 20 minutes? Instead, reach out with value. For example: If her business just launched a consumer product, sample the product and send her your honest feedback. When you start with unrequested value, you increase your odds of forming a relationship.

Keep in touch.

We sometimes come across social posts, articles, or headlines that make us think of an old friend. Pro-tip: Whenever an online piece reminds you of someone, send it their way. Think about it: Would it be nice if a friend you haven't from in years sent something to you? Probably — and vice versa. Take advantage of how easy technology makes it to keep in touch.

QUESTION FOR YOU

Think of a great relationship you have with someone. Why has it gone so well?

OPPORTUNITIES

  • 💰 NFX, the prestigious VC firm, is hiring for a Venture Analyst.

  • 🎮 Activision Blizzard, the legendary video-game company, is seeking Game Design Interns.

  • 🍲 Wonder, the popular restaurant-delivery business, is looking for an Entry-Level Restaurant Analyst.

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