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The Network Of Relationships In Business

Jay Cross: Another look at learning. Jay Cross: Another look at learning The point of learning is to prosper within our chosen communities. Learning enables us to enjoy relationships and knowledge. [elearningpost]

Jay Cross presents a wonderful look at the world around us in the perspective of learning. The same "networked" or systems view applies in strategic relations. Success in business relationships is directly related to structure and friction of business networks.

In the vein of information exchange, friction is caused by not sharing information necessary to advance the relationship. This includes logistical details that improve shipping, customer communications that facilitate "the right purchase", and many more areas that smooth the transaction. Are there any areas in your business that cause "friction" in your ability to work with others in your business?

When you look at your business, do you see a company in a sea of competition, or do you see your organization as an organ in a viable industry? Your view focuses your company's actions. Gain a larger prospective of your organization, stand back an look at how your company interacts with other companies (i.e. supply chain, distribution channels, community influence, ...)

Relationship type network issues to keep in mind:

• Your company is not separate of your competition. Your organization will never be better than all competitors in all areas, learn to leverage the best of those around you. Actions taken by your competition influence your decisions.
• Your company is not separate of your industry. Changes in your industry influence decisions in your company. Consider your organization a vital part of an industries success.
• Your employee are not independent of your product. Buying decisions are influenced by ever interaction with your company. When employees upset customers it reflects poorly on the product.
• An executives attitude is reflected in their closest staff. As we have seen in business corruption, it is never just one person, it is an attitude of deception based on viewed behaviors of high level leaders. Demonstrate the behaviors you desire in your people.
• Information exchange improves leverage and power. The more you know about the systems around you, and how you interact with them, the more influence you have in your industry. Choose your knowledge investments wisely.

/ applying-strategy | interaction-points /

By Justin Hitt at June 29, 2003 10:20 PM  Subscribe in a reader