Connect by asking follow-up questions to thus show an interest & learn, more deeply, what matters to the other person. Seek a sweet spot of mutual interest to strengthen the relationship. It also enables you to attract diverse allies so that, collectively, you can see more sides of a situation and make smarter decisions faster. Hint: adopt a mutuality mindset. Know that healthy relationships are based, not on a quid pro quo, yet an ebb and flow of mutual support over time