Tips to Improve Your Business Relationships
Author: Liz Bywater, PhD
Date: March 04, 2008
Liz Bywater, a business coach and consultant, recounted a recent unexpected encounter that turned a negative situation into a positive one.
Hi, I'm Claire. (Big warm smile.) If you have any questions or if I can help you with anything at all, please let me know. My job is family.
These were the first words I heard upon entering the waiting area of the Intensive Care Unit earlier this month. I had gone there to visit a family member. As I arrived at the front desk, I was greeted by Claire, the ICU concierge. Claire's job was to welcome visitors to the ICU, answer their (non-medical) questions and help them feel more comfortable. By all appearances, she didn't actually do all that much. No matter. Her presence and her genuine desire to help made an otherwise overwhelming experience just a little bit easier to handle.
Small gestures, like sending hand written thank you notes or taking client calls after hours on occasion can have a profound impact on relationships with friends and family, coworkers and clients.
"It's not mere cliche to say that business is all about relationships. It's a fact. Successful business is built on strong connections between individuals, teams and organizations. Establishing a foundation of mutual respect, trust and generosity is essential if we are to truly add value in our business relationships," Dr. Bywater said.
Developing and maintaining strong business relationships takes planning, reflection and practice. Dr. Bywater has a few guidelines to help you stay on track:
Be honest. Be truthful and straightforward at every turn. Of course, this means you will sometimes have to offer negative feedback. It won't always be easy. Nevertheless, candor in your business dealings is simply non-negotiable.
Be flexible. Whether you're dealing with a direct report, a colleague or a client, find ways to honor reasonable requests for latitude and accommodation.
Be gracious. Use kindness and compassion in your business dealings even when the stakes are high. It's not only the right thing to do, it's also smart business.
Be interested. Ask your business associates how things are going. Without prying, convey your interest in their lives. Your genuine interest in others will help promote trust, communication and collaboration - all of which are vital for effective working relationships.
Be generous. Freely offer your time, attention and expertise. Don't worry that others will take advantage of your munificence. More often than not, you will reap great rewards for your unbegrudging generosity.
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