Business Relationships: the Do's and Don'ts

Business Relationships: Do’s & Don’ts?

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Happy Monday?Business Gators!

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We are hopping into our first series of the spring semester, and it is all about business relationships!?From how to build your network, connect with alumni, form mentors in the workplace,?we will be covering why?business relationships are important to your career. Even so?while you’re in school!?

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For this week,?we will?take a deep dive into the Do’s and Don’ts of building and maintaining your business relationships.?Whether you’re getting to know a recruiter, networking with your peers, or new on the job, these are all important tips to establishing a new business relationship:

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Do…

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…Be Yourself!?

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In the business world, and across all aspects of life, it is best to just be yourself. Many people pretend to be something they aren’t or know something they don’t. Most often, people can see through these acts, and it can be detrimental to your development.Therefore, it is best to be you and show your true personality, talents,?and?skills.?Be sure to not only be professional, but personable and conversational, and build your confidence!?

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…Be Honest

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In addition to being honest about yourself, it’s important to be honest about your work, questions, or issues you may come across. While building business relationships, be transparent with how you’re feeling, especially if you’re new to the job. Are you overwhelmed, do you?feel?you can take on more responsibility, or just struggling to adjust to the company’s culture? Being open and honest about these things will build trust and deeper connections professionally!

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…Make Time

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Life can get hectic, especially while you are young in your career, but always make time to chat and check-in. A core part of building business relationships is making a personal connection. This can be done by following up on conversations, learning about this person’s hobbies, or even grabbing a coffee on your break. Especially in the beginning of a relationship, making time for others without ulterior motives shows you care and are eager to make a connection.

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Don’t…

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…Let Fears Get in the Way

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Networking and forming new relationships can be scary. It is often easier to talk and connect with people you already know?than to expand your network. Exploring new boundaries and stepping outside of your comfort zone allows you to form new?relationships and may lead to new opportunities. Shyness and personal fears are inevitable, but proactively expanding your network will help your professional and person development, both now and with time!?

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…Only Seek Help When You Need It

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While business relationships are?based on a professional connection, they can have a transactional aspect too. Meaning, reciprocity is provided, and needs are fulfilled within the relationship. With this, it is important to avoid seeking the relationship only when you need help. If your connection needs help, offer your support. Or, if you haven’t caught up in a few weeks, make the time to do so.?

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…Create Unrealistic Expectations

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Relationships are not always smooth sailing. It is unrealistic to expect your connection to be knowledgeable on everything you are curious about, or?to always be able to help when you need it.?Additionally, be open to what they bring to the table?and offer your skills too. Lastly, accept the fact that you may have disagreements! Thoroughly discuss what the conflict is, as that is all part of building a relationship, and how to avoid it going forward.?

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Overall, building strong and successful business relationships are impactful and advantageous for your career development.?However, they can’t be built over night and need a lot of work and consistency. Investing in these relationships will not only help your professional development and adjustment to new companies but also provide you a supportive network and system of mentors. And the best part is, you can start building these relationships now!?

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For more information and tips on how to build professional relationships, make an appointment with a CAP or BCS Coach! All appointments and availabilities are available on Hire Warrington, using this link:?https://warrington-ufl.12twenty.com/Login. We look forward to seeing you!

Upcoming Event:

Mastering LinkedIn, February 9th at 5pm in Heavener 260!

Register on Hire Warrington: ?https://warrington-ufl.12twenty.com/Login