“Connection before content.” It’s one of those phrases that sounds simple, but carries a surprising amount of weight. I’ve found that living by it — not just agreeing with it — can change the entire dynamic of a team, a meeting, even an organization.
Recently, we welcomed a new team member at Funds For Learning. Normally, I’d begin with a conversation about the history of our company, our culture, her new role, and what to expect in the coming months. But this time, we did something different.
I pulled out one of my favorite tools: a book filled with 3,000 questions. (link)
We spent the first 30 minutes of our meeting just answering random questions from the book. Nothing work-related. Just human questions, followed by honest answers. What do you wish you were better at? What song always lifts your mood? What’s something you’ve changed your mind about?
And in that short time, we probably learned more about each other than we would have in six months of just working side by side.
It felt more human. And, frankly, more rewarding.
Why connection comes first
At Funds For Learning, we talk a lot about being intentional with our time and relationships. At its core, connection before content is about just that. It’s about making space for trust before strategy. People before process.
Because content without connection tends to fall flat. But when people feel seen and understood, they engage more deeply, listen more openly, and contribute more fully.
Why it matters in EdTech and entrepreneurship
In the EdTech world, we’re often tempted to lead conversations with data, deadlines, or decisions. But the educators we serve are people first. They’re carrying immense responsibility, juggling constant change, and doing their best to serve students every day. Before we present a plan, we need to show up as partners. That starts with connection.
The same holds true in entrepreneurship. Founders often move fast. But speed without alignment leads to friction. When we connect with our teams first — when we listen, ask real questions, and create space for authentic dialogue — we don’t just build companies. We build trust.
A better way to begin
I’ve come to believe that the most effective way to start a relationship, whether with a team member, a client, or a community, isn’t with a slideshow. It’s with curiosity.
Asking a few good questions at the beginning can open up years of meaningful collaboration. And it doesn’t take long. Just a few minutes of intentional connection can shape how we work together for months or even years to come.
The challenge
My challenge to fellow leaders, especially in education and entrepreneurship:
- Start your next meeting with a question instead of an agenda
- Use your curiosity as a leadership tool
- Create space for connection before content
Because when we start with connection, everything else — strategy, communication, growth — gets better.
