9/26/2008
What's in a business relationship?
 If you receive the Get It In Writing newsletter, you likely have noticed that each issue ends with what I think is a particularly inspirational quote. In fact, many times I first find the quote and then build my topic of the week around that quote. In a recent issue, the quote, by John D. Rockefeller read like this: “A friendship founded on business is better than a business founded on friendship.” I think you would agree that Mr. Rockefeller was right on the mark with this one. And if you don’t immediately agree, I would urge you to take a few moments and give your past and present business relationships some honest thought. What you may find is a series of business opportunities or projects that could have gone a whole lot better. What do I mean exactly? Most times, our friendships are formed because of shared qualities, experiences likes and/or dislikes. Often we see things from the same perspective and point of view. And although it is great to have this type of shared camaraderie and comfort with another person, it is not always the most effective platform for a business relationship. In business, on the other hand, relationships are often formed on the basis of a need or desire to make something more efficient, more profitable. These relationships sometimes require us to go outside of our comfort zone and look at things differently. They require us to get involved with an individual because of business demands, not because we both love watching football on Sunday afternoons or because our kids go to school together. The best business relationships tend to be more productive since the goals and expectations of the relationships are (in the good cases) clear from the beginning. The emotion involved is based on business aims more than anything else. And the real beauty in these relationships is that in the end, what you may find is a very effective working relationship and a great friend to tailgate with on those Sunday afternoons. Technorati Tags - relationship building,productivity in business, business building, relationships Labels: business building, business relationships, productivity in business, relaltionships |
2/24/2008
The Art of the Relationship
| I had a few interesting "situations" this week. All were slightly uncomfortable, all tested me, all made me angry (at least for a fleeting moment) but all, at the end of the day, were great learning experiences. What I have learned is that it is precisely in that incredibly frustrating, perhaps fed-up or awkward moment that we (or at least I) have to step outside of ourselves and see things for what they are rather than blow this up into the biggest deal ever. More than that, we need to remember that this instant, while not so much fun, is a lesson, sometimes a very valuable one. For me, another reminder I constantly need to give myself is that no matter what, it's not personal. Instead of letting my emotions get out of control, I try to tell myself that this is about business, and about the other person, and their needs, frustrations and issues. Instead of taking it to heart, I try to learn from it and, at least emotionally, walk away. This all got me thinking about when business is personal and when it is totally on the other end of the spectrum and completely not personal. Read my "Art of the Relationship" tips in earlier Blog postings and let me know what you think. Labels: business relationships, relaltionships |
2/20/2008
The Art of the Relationship (Part 2 of 2)
| In my last post, I gave you the first three of my "art of the relationship" tips. Here are the next three: Remember their human needs. No, I don't mean anything that personal. We are all emotional beings who want to feel appreciated and loved (bring out the violins). Your clients are no different. Thank them when necessary, tell them how much you enjoy your relationship with them or how much you respect them in their business. A little goes a long way! Listen. You know the saying about having two ears and one mouth and using them accordingly? This could not be more relevant than with your clients. Listen to them. Really listen to them. Don’t assume you know their expectations and needs -- ask (and then listen to the answer). Picture-perfect. Lastly, share your picture with your customers. In today's world we work with so many different people, some daily, and we never even see them face-to-face. It may be an old adage, but a picture is still worth a thousand words. Labels: business advice, business relationships, relaltionships |
The Art of the Relationship (Part 1 of 2)
| True or false: Your clients and the relationships you foster with them are the most important aspect of your business. (Obviously true.) Through good working relations, you not only can generate more business, but credibility and visibility (and ultimately profitability) that money really can' buy. By extending them the courtesy of open communication and meaningful attention, you ultimately develop a strong relationship. There are a few "musts" that I live by with all clients no matter how "big" or "small" they are. What really blows my mind is that not all businesses abide by these basic tenets. Here are my Top Six "art of the relationship" tips for entrepreneurs, small business owners and all of the rest of you no matter where you fall in the business spectrum: Be on time, every time. If you promise to deliver a project at a certain time, deliver it accordingly. If you must break or miss a deadline, contact your customer immediately and be prepare to provide them a good reason for missing it. Same goes for a meeting – if you're late, just call someone and let them know. Connect in different ways. Try to connect on a personal level by inviting your clients to joining a social network, such as Linkedin or Ning. When you send e-mail, inquire about their day or ask about something mentioned in a previous e-mail (such as a wedding or a child's illness). Be on the lookout…and take action. Something I have always naturally done is send articles, either by snail mail or by e-mail, to clients and even people I met way back at an event or through a client or colleague. I am big on sharing information and it is amazing how significant and potentially valuable such a small gesture may be to the recipient. See my next post for the next three "art of the relationship" tips. Labels: business advice, business relationships, relaltionships |