How often do you tell your colleagues what they do well? This is probably one of their unique qualities that makes the relationship valuable. When you recognize their unique contributions to your business relationship, you validate, reinforce, and most importantly, value what they bring to the relationship.
I recently had a client thank me for following up – as requested – on our ongoing dialogue to bring a relationship selling program to his organization. It was a simple, even off-hand comment that I appreciated. It made me ask myself how often I recognize the contributions others make to my work. How often do I plant those seeds that grow into sustainable relationships? When we do this it shows the right kind of leadership.
This past weekend I saw the film "Smart People." I’m not sure if I got all of the subtle messages in this ‘think piece,’ but I’m fairly certain one of them was to make a connection with people in a personal way. Get to know the people you are engaged with. In my opinion, this is the Right Way to operate a business. All of our intellectual knowledge is meaningless if there isn’t a personal connection. This is what builds relationships! So, thanks Jason for your kind words about what I do well in our business relationship. I appreciate it, and will carry that with me in my work with other clients.
