The Power of Human Connection: Making Every Meeting Count

Who are you having coffee with this week?

It’s a simple question—but one I’ve asked myself every week since 2010. I posed the same question recently to a group of Oxford University undergraduates during a LinkedIn lecture in London. In a world increasingly ruled by digital interactions and algorithm-driven engagement, it's easy to forget just how powerful face-to-face (or even Zoom-to-Zoom) conversations can be.

Over the past 13 years, I’ve made it a non-negotiable to meet one new person every single week. That’s at least 52 new conversations a year, multiplied over a decade—and the results have been nothing short of transformative.

The Unexpected Benefits of New Connections

The surface-level benefit of meeting someone new is obvious: you grow your network. But the deeper benefits are where the magic really happens.

Learning from Others

Every person carries a lifetime of experience. In just one hour, you could learn a new strategy, gain insight into an unfamiliar industry, or be introduced to a book or concept that changes your thinking.

New people challenge your assumptions. They force you to explain what you do in simple terms. They show you how others view your space, your brand, and your value. These reflections are priceless.

Uncovering Opportunities

That spontaneous lunch might turn into a client project. A coffee meeting could lead to a strategic partnership or a speaking opportunity. But you won’t know unless you show up.

The key is not to approach these meetings with an agenda. Instead, show up curious, present, and open. The opportunity often reveals itself during genuine conversation—not during a pitch.

My Recent Experience

This week I had the pleasure of having lunch with my LinkedIn pal, Lara Acosta. It was a classic example of how these weekly meetings bring both personal joy and professional value.

Checking In and Comparing Notes

We spent part of the lunch catching up on our respective workloads and challenges with creating content on LinkedIn. There was no agenda—just two peers sharing real-life lessons and trading notes. These kinds of conversations are often more valuable than any webinar or course.

Creating Memorable Moments

Of course, the meeting wasn’t all business. We laughed, celebrated Pride Month with glitter chocolate truffles, and, true to form, I accidentally knocked over her hot chocolate (fortunately no damage done).

These are the moments that build lasting relationships. Not just connections. Not just follows or likes. Real, memorable moments between real people.

Making Every Meeting Count

So—who are you meeting this week?

Don’t just fill your calendar. Fill it with intention. Every conversation could be the most valuable one you have this year. Whether it’s a Zoom coffee, an in-person lunch, or even a voice note exchange, treat each one as a door to something meaningful.

A Challenge for You

Start small. Commit to one new meeting a week. Reach out to someone you admire. Reconnect with someone you've lost touch with. Accept that invitation. Say yes.

Make every meeting count. Approach it with curiosity. Follow up with gratitude. You never know where it will lead.

Join My Newsletter

If this resonated with you, I’d love to invite you to join my newsletter. When you do, you’ll get access to my free micro course, From Connection to Call. It’s designed to help you deepen digital relationships and move them into meaningful conversations—the kind that can change your business.

So, are you ready to turn coffee into connection and conversation into opportunity?

Let’s make every meeting count.

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