I like the line in my favorite movie, Sleepless in Seattle, when Meg Ryan tells Tom Hanks, “It may not be personal to you, it was personal to me.” It is tough in today’s work environment to avoid the personal aspect of business.

Business decisions are based on facts, numbers and the bottom line. However, I do believe if you are competitive in all areas, what will always win out is the personal factor.

Do they want to have a cup of coffee with you?
Do you communicate in a manner that they understand?
Do you have the same values, energy and understanding of the bigger picture as they do?

The second page of the business section of the New York Times focuses on leadership and a selected CEO. Most often, people are drawn to the personal qualities of their leaders. Read what Bobbi Brown, founder of Bobbi Brown Cosmetics interview in Sunday’s edition – January 24, 2010.

So, in my experience – all things being the same – whether you get the job, are the person they want on the team or get anointed as the next leader – it’s all personal.