Good business relationships are a key part of a business’s success. Some may take a while to form, but those relationships can offer endless benefits down the road. For example, you might receive helpful advice or a business opportunity that allows you to grow.
Time and effort are required for strong business relationships. You can’t meet someone at a single event and expect them to remember you in a year’s time without following up! If you’re ready to make some new connections (and keep them), read on.
Nail the Introduction
First impressions really do matter, which is why you must concentrate on nailing your introduction. Know how to sell yourself professionally, from your body language to how you tell people what you do. Your goal is to be likable and trustworthy from the first moment. That way, other professionals will be more open to getting to know you and your business.
Understand Each Other’s Values
When forming business relationships, it’s important to both be on the same page when it comes to values. With aligned ideas and goals, each party will be able to help the other better. Some business partners may even turn into ecosystem partners, which in turn would boost profits for each business. If you want to learn more, here is The Ultimate Guide to Drive Co-sell Partnerships.
Attend One-On-One Meetings
In this digital age, many professionals rely too heavily on technology for their business relationships. While tech certainly helps keep up those connections, nothing truly beats a one-on-one meeting with a client or business partner. It establishes a stronger, more meaningful relationship that will stay in the minds of both parties.
Regularly Communicate
Business relationships need to be maintained, and that means keeping up with communications. That might involve a phone conversation, a quick email, or visiting when you are in the area. The next time you have a small favor to ask, don’t hesitate to reach out – this request will work in your favor.
Attend Networking Events
Attending networking events is a must for those wanting to form better business relationships, as that is where many of them start. Plus, you’ll get to strengthen the ones you already have. A good way to do this is by introducing two professionals that you know to one another. It’ll show each person that you value their expertise and knowledge to the point where you happily refer them to others.
Don’t Put All Your Effort into a Dead Business Relationship
If you put all your effort into keeping up a business relationship, then it might simply not be working out. It’s important to know when to cut your losses so that you don’t waste too much time on one relationship when you could be building another. Too many ignored emails and answering machines is a good indication that the business relationship isn’t going anywhere.
The best kind of business relationship benefits both sides. By forming new connections and strengthening the ones you already have, you’ll find more opportunities coming your way.
