ConnectionsGood morning! Today’s President’s Day here in the U.S. Anyone lucky enough to have a day off from work?

Connections are an essential part of the human condition. Making the right connections can lead to big things….perhaps even the presidency! So this week’s roundup features seven posts from around the web that focus on just that: making connections.

1. Your Blog Needs Passion and Props like a Great Professor

Why:  Mike Allton remembers his college daze [sic] and discusses some ways that passion, excitement, and props can breathe new life into old topics… and help you form a connection with your blog audience.

2. Three Essential Truths About Entrepreneurial Success

Why: Being an entrepreneur can be exciting, but also daunting. Denise Wakeman shares her tips for a successful entrepreneurial adventure.

3. The Importance of Personal Context and Connection

Why: Are you creating content that helps people form a connection? Ken Mueller explores the link between personal context and connection.

4. An Unkindness of Ravens: Thoughts on Twitter Communication 

Why: In this goodie from the WUL vault, Holly Dawson shares her plan to strengthen her Twitter connections via a monthly audit. (We’ll have to see how she’s doing!)

5. Supermarkets Warm Up to Mobile Commerce. Finally.

Why: Does your local grocery store offer online shopping yet? Shelley Kramer reviews how some stores are making personal connections with their consumers via mobile devices and more!

6. Getting started with partner collaborations

Why: When making business connections and possible collaborations, compatibility is key. Adi Gaskell explores the ways in which collaboration can lead to a competitive advantage for all involved.

7. IBM CEO points to social strategy with a twist

Why: Mark Schaefer reviews IBM’s new strategy that includes a shift toward making meaningful connections with consumers via social media.

How do you make meaningful connections and stand out from the crowd? Have you made a connection that had a great influence on your career? Please let us know in the comments below.