Down the ages, it’s been a vital component of commerce to make the best relationships, with the best people, bring together those partnerships where mutual benefit was the goal.
And trust in those relationships is often the acid test of how well progress is made, especially in the early stages.
Although you may be recommended by others, usually a good sign, meeting up with someone for the first time is often the initial opportunity to make a name for yourself, literally.
So, would it be good to know some easy steps to take to make the new relationship go well?
Of course it would. So here are ten tips to help you on your way.
Imagine it’s the first conversation you’re having with someone you would like to have on your side. These small steps in how you talk to, and listen to them will make a huge difference…
1. Listen well and pay full attention.
By paying attention to them they immediately feel valued and important. This is critical in them believing that you are worth the time and effort. It’s also a matter of courtesy. When someone else is speaking it’s the right thing to do to, listen patiently and being interested.
2. You are more interested in other people than yourself.
It’s almost impossible to do completely and if you do it well, showing that it’s how you are, you will make people like you more. And in the big picture, seeing this as a way of looking after your own interests is far wiser than short term actions.
3. You keep promises and do what you say you will.
By always being upfront with what you say you will do – and then delivering, you will be much more attractive to most people. ‘Dependable’, ‘reliable’ and ‘committed’, will be words to describe how others see you and the way you are.
4. You are a great friend when others are in need.
Whilst this needs some care (or you spend you life sorting out everyone else’s problems), being there for others is a great asset to have. Their needs are often to be listened to and therefore they need someone to talk to. If you are good at this, and help them find solutions to their own problems (not you finding solutions for them all the time), they will thank you and value you.
5. You share resources and put the people you know in touch with each other.
Where you can be a resource for each other, then the network builds into a shared support and resource group. I can’t think of the number of times I have been able to help someone with something that I know and can share. And I know I can now call on others to help me too!
