How to build business relationships? Give these 3 secrets a try, and you may just find yourself with some superhero comrades at your side.
We’ve all heard that business is about relationships, but have you ever thought about why?
Superman can move mountains. Batman’s intellect allows him to invent top-notch gadgets. And Wonder Woman can of course glide on currents of wind and lasso like nobody’s business.
Individually, any one of them is awesome.
But together? Unbeatable.
If you own your own business, you most likely have an idea of what you want it to be someday. Call it a goal, call it a dream, call it a vision – call it anything you like. Whatever your image of success, chances are that you’re not going to be able to achieve it without some help.
All of us need relationships. But how to build them? Once you get past the “hi, how are you?” and the business card swap, how do you create more? Give these three relationship-building secrets a try and see where it gets you. You may just find yourself with some superhero comrades at your side.
What do you want to get? Give it.
The best way to start any relationship is to give something. Make a gesture. Send someone a book you think they’d enjoy. Invite them to an event. Email them an article relevant to their industry or interests. Introduce them to someone who can help them. Best of all, if you feel it’s appropriate to do so, pass them a referral. While all of us want to form relationships to build our businesses, we often forget that we need to give before we can receive.
Remember to ask.
Last month a website client of mine mentioned that she told an organization about me and they loved my work. This was very exciting to me as this organization had the potential to make a lot of powerful introductions for me. But what did I do? I waited, and I waited, and I waited – just hoping that they’d reach out to me. Eventually, I realized what I should have known all along. I was going to need to ask for that formal introduction if I wanted it. So I did, and now I have a meeting with them in the coming months.
Figuring out the next thing you need to propel your business forward is only half the solution. The more important part is getting the courage to ask for that thing, from whom can give it to you. Make it known when you make your ask that you would love to return the favor, and now you’re building a relationship.
Get out of the office!
Ever thought you were already good friends with someone, but then went camping or road-tripping with them, and it took your bond to another level? Relationships often strengthen when two people get out of their everyday ho-hum atmospheres, and try something new together. Whether it’s drinks at a new place in town, putt-putting on the weekend, or anything else – making that invitation will take your business relationship to the next level.
