Why Strong Business Relationships Matter More Than Ever

Just like your personal relationships, making time to nurture your business relationships is one of the smartest investments you can make. Developing and fostering strong, mutually beneficial business relationships is not just a great way to gain more customers, but it’s a valuable way to learn from others, expand your knowledge and build trust and commitment.

Over the course of my career, I’ve learned a simple, yet powerful lesson: my relationships are absolutely key to my success. Although taking a relationship-centric approach requires time and effort, I assure you that if you put in the work, you will be rewarded many times over. 

Relationships yield loyalty and trust.

When you foster tight connections in business, you build loyalty and trust between one another. By developing these kinds of relationships, your business transforms from being “just another company” into a brand customers and partners know and trust. This is particularly important during more challenging times in your business’ history. The more your relationships trust you and your brand, the more they can rely on the fact that you will continue to make thoughtful and ethical decisions, even when times are tough.

Careers last longer than companies.

As someone who has followed five CEOs throughout my career and have had dozens of people follow me more than once along my journey, I understand that relationships endure well beyond individual jobs. I also understand that relationships are reciprocal, not transactional. My business network consists of a qualified, selective group of people I count on, tap into and rely on for support, direction and insight (and vice versa). Investing heavily and heartily in these relationships have provided a wealth of benefits as I progressed in my career and they’ve progressed in theirs. 

Connectivity breeds personalization.

Whether it’s a relationship with a colleague, partner or customer, so much of business success hinges on creating personalized experiences. The more connected these people feel to us and the organization we represent, the easier it is to create the customized environment they are seeking.

Throughout my career, I’ve worked hard to build relationships that last. To do so, I embrace a leadership style that prioritizes openness, high energy and encouragement. Everyone needs to find their unique approach to relationship building, as it’s not one-size-fits-all. It won’t happen overnight, but surrounding yourself with people you want to support (and want to support you) is a crucial step along the path to business success.