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Simples Things Can Build Business Relationships

Robert Service. "Be master of your petty annoyances and conserve your energies for the big, worthwhile things. It isn't the mountain ahead that wears you out - it's the grain of sand in your shoe." [Motivational Quotes of the Day]

Before you grab up the latest customer relationship software, or employee resource planning system; start with the small things today. Relationship building starts with a simple smile and handshake or even a small note saying thank you. Complex strategies and hours of consulting won't bring you any results if you don't have these things.

Too often we are bogged down with hype used to sell us these methods, when you already have the tools you need to improve the business relationships around you. Go over each of the "8 relationship realms" identifying one thing you can do to improve each. Slowly remove those things blocking the results you desire, and you will build the energy you need to tackle the bigger relationship challenges in your business.

Other simple things that can build business relationships:

1. Appropriate thank you gifts for people who advance your business objectives.
2. Show up 10-minutes early to meetings to touch base and prepare for your contribution.
3. Acknowledgment of a job well done by employees for strategic partners promptly after the event.
4. Invite your team's feedback and suggestions before your start new projects that involves them.
5. Ask questions of people close to the customer, listen and take notes on how you can reduce costs while improving quality.
6. Give thank you gifts with recurring value, something people will use frequently and be reminded of their good work.
7. Introduce yourself to an employee you've never met, just to learn more about their objectives.

/ employee-relations | relationship-realms /

By Justin Hitt at July 13, 2003 3:33 AM  Subscribe in a reader