By: Chris Gallagher
Genuine human connection has become a rare and invaluable commodity in a world saturated with digital noise. Today, we delve into the heart of authentic communication with a woman who has dedicated her life to fostering meaningful relationships. Tammy J. Cohen, author, business consultant, and the visionary behind ‘Women Beyond the Table,’ joins us to share her insights on leadership, storytelling, and the power of vulnerability. Her work has touched countless lives, reminding us that actual influence stems from genuine connection.
Liana Zavo: Tammy, having you here is a genuine honor. Your work, notably ‘Women Beyond the Table’ and your book, ‘Text Messages to My Sons,’ speaks volumes about your commitment to authentic connection. In an era where digital interactions often overshadow face-to-face engagements, how do you see the role of genuine connection evolving, especially in leadership?
Tammy Cohen: Liana, thank you. I believe genuine connection is becoming more critical than ever, particularly in leadership. We’ve seen the limitations of purely transactional relationships. Leaders who cultivate empathy, listen actively and share their vulnerability create environments where innovation and collaboration thrive. ‘Women Beyond the Table’ is a testament to this; it’s about creating spaces where women can share their experiences, support each other, and build genuine bonds. That translates to higher trust, loyalty, and overall success in business.
LZ: That’s a vital point. You’ve navigated diverse professional landscapes. What’s the significant misconception regarding effective communication in today’s business world?
TC: The big misconception is that communication is solely about delivering information. It’s about building understanding and trust. Many businesses focus on broadcasting messages rather than engaging in meaningful dialogue. Proper communication involves listening, responding, and adapting to the needs of your audience. Whether through ‘Text Messages to My Sons’ or in business consultations, I emphasize the power of two-way communication. It is a dialogue, not a monologue.
LZ: You’ve highlighted the importance of vulnerability. How do you advise leaders to balance vulnerability with a strong, authoritative presence?
TC: That’s a delicate balance, Liana. Vulnerability isn’t about weakness; it’s about authenticity. It’s about acknowledging that we’re all human, with strengths and weaknesses—leaders who share their struggles and lessons learned to build trust and inspire others to do the same. The strength comes from the honesty and how the leader handles the vulnerability. It is not about oversharing but sharing the correct parts to create a stronger connection. It is about being honest. It is a strategic vulnerability. It is about showing up as a person, not a robot.
LZ: In your book, ‘Text Messages to My Sons,’ you share personal insights and life lessons. How can storytelling be leveraged to build stronger brands and foster deeper connections with audiences?
TC: Storytelling is the heart of connection. It allows us to share our values, our experiences, and our perspectives in a relatable way. Brands that tell authentic stories create emotional connections with their audiences. It’s not about creating fictional narratives; it’s about sharing the real stories behind the brand—the challenges, the triumphs, the values that drive the organization. Stories create a human connection, that data alone can not produce.
LZ: Recently, you were a panelist at the ‘Unleash The Story Within’ summit, a gathering focused on the power of personal narrative. What key takeaways did you gain from that experience, and how do you see those insights applying to the broader business world?
TC: The ‘Unleash The Story Within’ summit was a powerful reminder of the universality of the human experience. The key takeaway was the immense power of owning and sharing your story authentically. This translates to building brands rooted in genuine values and narratives in the business world. Consumers are drawn to stories that resonate with their experiences, and companies embracing vulnerability and transparency create deeper connections. Also, the summit reinforced that everyone has a story, and those stories have value. Businesses encouraging their teams to share their stories create a more inclusive and engaging environment, fostering innovation and collaboration. A personal narrative is not only for the individual but also a powerful tool for businesses.
LZ: Finally, Tammy, what’s one key piece of advice you’d offer to aspiring leaders who want to make a lasting impact?
TC: Invest in genuine relationships. Prioritize people over transactions. Cultivate empathy, listen actively, and communicate with authenticity. And always, always remember that your legacy is built on the connections you forge and the impact you have on the lives of others.
Written in partnership with ZavoMedia PR Group
Published by Joseph T.
