If anyone were to ask me what one of the top three most important aspects are in business and especially the commercial side of sports I would have to say building and maintaining positive relationships is absolutely up there! I'm in a people business and not a day goes by, truly, without me having to rely on a relationship I built. A funny story recently found me at a grand prix and my car had been towed. I told a colleague of mine and within 60 seconds he was on the phone to a friend he has who worked at the track. We located my car and we're off to retrieve it at no cost. All of this was possible because he had a positive relationship with someone he worked with in the past. It was also made possible because I didn't park properly, but I digress.
So, I encourage you to check your ego, take a beat and think about who and why you're meeting with people to see how you can build positive relationships.
I've listed out ten of the best ways to do this:
Communication: Regular and clear communication is essential. Be proactive in sharing information and listening to others.
Trust: Establish trust through honesty, reliability, and consistency in your actions and words. Oh god, this one is so vital!!!
Networking: Expand your network by attending industry events, joining professional groups, and connecting on social platforms like LinkedIn, my choice for business for sure.
Offer Value: Provide value to others before expecting something in return. This could be through knowledge sharing, introductions, or assistance.
Respect: Show respect for others’ opinions, time, and expertise. Respectful interactions build rapport and trust.
Be Genuine: Authenticity fosters genuine connections. Show your true self and be sincere in your interactions.
Follow Up: After meetings or interactions, follow up promptly and meaningfully. This shows you value the relationship.
Collaboration: Seek opportunities to collaborate on projects or initiatives. Working together builds mutual understanding and strengthens bonds.
Recognition: Acknowledge and appreciate others’ contributions. Recognition fosters goodwill and encourages continued positive interactions. PLEASE DO THIS!
Long-term Focus: Build relationships with a long-term perspective. Invest time in maintaining and nurturing connections beyond immediate needs.
By focusing on these strategies consistently, you can build strong, mutually beneficial relationships that contribute to your success in business. And don't park where you're not supposed to! See you at the races!
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