When you consider the lifetime value (LTV) of rock-solid relationships, you are ever mindful of why building great business relationships is critical for long-term success in business and, frankly, in life. These tips will help you connect with people so they see you as someone they want to support and get to know better. Enjoy.
- Be the conversation starter. Avoid asking people, “What do you do?” which leads to asking for a job title. Instead, try questions like, “How long have you known the Johnsons?” or “How long have you been a member of this charitable group?” or “What’s been the best part of the conference so far for you?”
- “Reverse the converse” and be curious about their story. It is easy to fall into habit of talking about our experiences rather than asking more probing questions to find out about others’ experiences. When you talk about your experience instead of the experiences of others people see you as all about yourself. So, “reverse the converse” when you engage someone in a conversation, ask them a question that encourages them to tell their story. As an example, What are you most excited about this winter? What are your plans for the weekend? When they tell you their story, they see you as someone interested in them and with whom they can relate. And that is foundational to the word and practice of building relationships.
- Make things happen. How many times have someone said to you “we should have lunch sometime,” or “let’s get together for drinks sometime.” If this is someone you want to connect with, take the lead and schedule it then! Most people who say that in a sincere way are well intentioned. Unfortunately, life gets in the way so be a collaborator and with technology most have their calendar at their fingertips. Why wait when you can book it right then and there!
Want more these and Four More Quick Tips to Build Great Business Relationships?
Click HERE and download them – and, OFC, they are free!