In a recent interview on my radio show, “Why Women,” I had the honor of speaking with Jenn Kennedy, a renowned sex therapist and founder of The Pleasure Project. Amidst our conversation, Jenn and I arrived at some intriguing insights: the skills that make you good at sex and relationships are remarkably similar to those that make you successful in business.

The concepts we developed offer valuable lessons for anyone looking to improve their professional and personal lives. Be sure to listen to the full episode on SoundCloud and Apple Podcasts. And if you’d like to learn how to better connect with your clientele through psychology-based research in marketing and advertising, contact us at Fraser Communications.

Be Curious and Open

One of the foundational skills in both relationships and business is maintaining a sense of curiosity and openness. In relationships, this means being willing to explore new aspects of your partner and the relationship itself. It involves being open to new experiences, ideas, and staying engaged with your partner's thoughts and feelings.

The same principle applies in business. Curiosity drives innovation and growth. Being open to new ideas, willing to explore different perspectives, and staying engaged with colleagues and clients can lead to unexpected opportunities and successful outcomes in advertising. Plus, this openness fosters a dynamic and adaptable business environment, which is essential for long-term success.

Watch Body Language and Respond Appropriately

In relationships, paying close attention to body language is very important. Non-verbal cues such as eye contact, posture, and gestures can reveal much about a person’s feelings and intentions. Being attuned to these signals and responding appropriately is key to building strong, intimate connections.

Similarly, in business, reading body language can provide critical insights into a client’s or colleague’s level of engagement and interest. Noticing if someone is distracted, such as checking their phone or having closed-off body language like crossed arms, can inform how you proceed in a marketing pitch or advertising presentation. Adjusting your approach based on these cues can enhance communication and strengthen professional relationships, making your marketing efforts more effective.

Don't Be Afraid to Innovate

Jenn emphasized the importance of not being afraid to innovate in relationships. Engaging in playful and fun activities, like flirting and cuddling, without the immediate expectation of sex, can reignite passion and intimacy, especially for couples aged 45-70 who might be experiencing a lull in their relationships. Innovation in this context means trying new things and keeping the relationship exciting and fresh.

In the business world, innovation is equally vital. Don’t be afraid to try new strategies or approaches. Whether it’s developing a new product, exploring a different market, or adopting a unique advertising strategy, innovation keeps a business competitive and relevant. Just as in relationships, it’s about staying dynamic and open to new possibilities.

The Foreplay of Business

One of the most compelling parallels Jenn drew was between foreplay in relationships and the initial stages of business interactions. In relationships, foreplay involves building intimacy and connection before progressing to sex. It’s about making your partner feel valued and appreciated.

In business, a similar process occurs. Before closing a sale, it typically takes about seven interactions with a potential client. This “business foreplay” involves investing time in building a connection, listening to their needs, answering questions, and providing valuable information in marketing and advertising contexts. It’s about making the client feel understood and valued before moving to the sale. Networking, much like the early stages of dating, is about establishing trust and rapport.

How Can You Be Better At Sex — And Business?

The skills that foster successful relationships—curiosity, attentiveness to body language, willingness to innovate, and the process of building connections before diving into deeper commitments—are equally valuable in the business world. By applying these principles, you can enhance both your personal and professional life.

Jenn Kennedy’s insights remind us that the fundamentals of human connection are universal, whether in the bedroom or the boardroom. To hear more, tune in to the “Why Women” show on KABC, SoundCloud, or Apple Podcasts.

And if you’d like to work with consultants who understand the importance of these principles and apply them to achieve positive behavior change and business success, contact us at Fraser Communications for a consultation.