5 tips for building strategic relationships
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We all know relationships are important. The relationships you build today may get you the next leadership position in a new organization, move you up in your current organization, or help you with a pressing problem you've been dealing with.
I've struggled long and hard over relationships that feel way too transactional. They always seems to turn toward business talk and what we're doing to grow our businesses.
It makes me tired and sad. It feels like it isn't a real relationship. But it is. It's just different. These relationships are strategic.
A strategic relationship is one that:
- Benefits both parties
- Helps you grow your business or yourself
- Encourages you to do better
- Keeps you focused on your goals
They aren't bad, they're just not quite as relational or personal as some people would like. Including myself.
Here are some tips I've found that improve strategic relationships.
1. Know what you have to offer.
Strategic relationships are all about helping each other succeed. To do this, you need to know what youhave to offer.
Can you connect your partner with someone that could help them move their business to the next level? Could you share a valuable article or resource with them? Maybe you have a coaching business or business consulting firm that could help them.
Figure out what they need and what you have to offer.
2. Understand the personality of the person you're building a strategic relationship with.
Different personality types respond differently to different rewards. Some strategic relationships require you to build a more personal side. Others love to see results.
Figure out what motivates the people you're building relationships with. Continue to provide them with the rewards that resonate with them.
Continue to do this and you will build a bond where the other person feels valued.
3. Be ready to ask questions or provide ideas.
Relationships are a two-way street. You both have to benefit.
There are two ways to do this. The first is to ask questions. This can be to dig deeper into an idea or plan the other person provides. It shows that you are listening and aware of what they're sharing. Asking questions can also help them clarify their thoughts and ideas. Dig deep into their thoughts with questions. You will be surprised at how much they will appreciate it.
The second is to provide ideas. You have both talked about your business struggles. Now, you can share your business ideas with the other party. Give them your thoughts and ideas on what they can do to grow personally or professionally.
4. Send a piece of snail mail.
I have to say, snail mail is still cool. People love getting a piece of physical mail over getting an email in their online mailbox.
Why? Because physical is still king.
Receiving a physical letter tells the recipient that someone took the time to handwrite a letter, stick it in an envelope, and place it in a mailbox.
Don't doubt the power of a real, physical letter. They may even be shocked and awed by it.
5. Be willing to end a strategic relationship.
Some relationships are meant to be forever, like a marriage. Other relationships can have an end, like a strategic business relationship.
At some point, it may be time to move on from a partnership you've built with someone. Be ready and willing to end on a positive note.
You may mourn the loss, but it's something that happens in life. Being prepared and willing to end it will show respect for the other person in the relationship.
 | Joseph Lalonde is an award-winning leadership blogger and hosted the Answers From Leadership podcast. He desires to see 20-somethings step into their God-ordained roles as leaders. Previously, on the E3 staff and currently serving in the Catalyst youth ministry of Gateway Church, Joseph has mentored many students and has seen their lives changed through this teaching. His mission is to help equip leaders with the knowledge and information to boost their leadership to the next level. This article was first published on JMLalonde.com. Used with permission Learn More » |
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