Engagement can be best described as being in the flow, connecting, and being present. These were the qualities we noticed in our guest pianist, Leo Genovese. He gave one of the most extraordinary, transcendent concerts we have ever heard; we were left speechless by his excellence. But the qualities that really impressed us were how he engaged with everyone he met.
There is something important to learn here. You can be very competent in what you do, but if you aren’t able to engage with people your work doesn’t often get recognized or appreciated.
Here are some thoughts on the importance of engagement.
BEING IN THE FLOW
Leo gave an extemporaneous concert based on regions of his native country, Argentina. One of his pieces was about water, based on the Falls of Iguaza, one of the country’s impressive waterfalls. He talked about being in the flow. He embodied it himself, being relaxed, responsive and flexible, engaging with his audience, despite travel glitches and little sleep.
CONNECTING
When you are in the flow, connections come easily. Being open to what is happening around you, with interest, curiosity, joy, kindness and no judgement, enables you to easily relate, get along and even bond. We were awed watching Leo do this with us, our friends and the audience. We now feel a special connection to our new friend.
BE PRESENT
Being present is critical to engagement. It tells people you are interested in them and what they are saying, it speaks to your ability to be mindful and involved in the moment rather than in your own thoughts, stresses and worry. This quality makes engagement genuine, rather than forced politeness. It makes connections real. Leo made that happen with everyone he met, and everyone loved him.
If you’d like to improve your quality of engagement, try embracing these skills. They work.
