Very true, Mary. The really crazy thing, which I wish I’d worked into the post, is that genuine connection with others is a fundamental human need. *And* it supports innovation, productivity, communication and a whole lot of other great things that mean a healthier bottom line for businesses and nonprofits alike.

I don’t object to commercial or financial relationships at all, as long as both parties are very clear that’s what they are. But metrics tell us it’s more fruitful to become the lead’s or donor’s pal, so…