6 ways to build Relationship Capital

Firstly, what is relationship captial anyway? I like to define it as the strength and value placed on your personal and professional network that enables you to navigate strategically to achieve your goals as you support others to achieve theirs.

Relationship Capital is not something that is taught formally at school (although should be). It falls within the realms of emotional intelligence and given no one is an island - it's important we understand the importance of Relationship Capital- not just conceptually but how we can practically build it in a way that will yield substantial returns for not only us but our networks. Relationships are what opens doors and the quality of yours will be inextricably linked to your personal brand and reputation. In an ever connected world, let's be intentional about how we are building our Relationship Capital. 

These 6 steps provide a good starting point for anyone who wants to build deeper relationships on a professional level: 

1. Actively listen to people 

It's always tempting to inform people of your accomplishments or hope that an opportunity conveniently arises where you can boast a little. However, listening more in our interactions with people can equip us to make great impact in the lives of others. When your able to deliver accordingy to your clients' or colleagues' needs, this will be a great reflection on you and the quality of your work.

Be someone who listens (and looks) out for the needs of others and it will serve you well.

2. Always seek to add value

This is my modus operandi. I love being able to go into a situation or place and leave it better off than I found it. When you operate with this mindset, you will be that person who makes their boss look good and who gives credit to their team mates. Value can be added in so many different ways but you do have to adopt a certain mindset (and heart) that chooses to help others without always thinking "What's in it for me?"

This will serve you well in future especially if you ever need to knock on one of these doors in the future for help.

3. Follow Up

If people help you, always go back and say thank-you and keep them updated with your progress. This speaks volumes (and also of your gratitude). It's also just common courtesy. Such an attitude invites people to keep pouring into your life. People who just take, ask and take more can be extremely draining.

4. Be generous with your network 

If there is an introduction that you can make to help someone further along - do it. We all have times in our lives where we will rely on someone being generous enough to open the door or connect us to someone. One rule I live by is "Just do it". If I've promised to make an introduction to someone, I try and do it immediately before "life" gets in the way. If you are in a position of leadership, perhaps leading a society or managing a team in the workplace, seek to be a connector.

5. Build your brand on LinkedIn to create connections based on where you are going

For me personally, LinkedIn has been an amazing way to break down barriers and create bridges and relationships with people who ordinarily would not be in my network. When you share your work and seek to be a thought leader in whatever area you are passionate about, you begin to attract likeminded people and also people that may be operating in the same space as you. It's really easy to be a passive spectator on LinkedIn with just "liking" content you see but become someome who shapes the debate and watch people who should be connected to you become part of your network. We often shy away from such opportunities for fear of what people may think or whether we will get enough "likes" but be true to yourself and consistent in your passion and you will get in front of the audience that will appreciate what you have to offer. 

I've made some great connections on LinkedIn that have led to physical meetings and then working together. Don't be afraid to connect with people on LinkedIn - have a strong profile and have in your mind why a particular person would want to connect with you. If you (1) are an active listener (2) always seek to add value, (3) you follow up and (4) you are generous with your network - you already have 4 good reasons!

6. Know how relationships could help you achieve your goals - it's always refreshing when I work with people who have already done their research and have an idea about how I may be able to support them. It can make our interactions much more fruitful and often leaves me feeling very positive about them as a person, deducing they are driven and self motivated.

Strong relationships both inside and outside your organisation are extremely important and when Relationship Capital is a priority, many of your relationships will be mutually beneficial. Taking time to invest in those relationships around you can help you achieve your professional goals quicker than you could imagine!