7 Ways to Foster a Working Relationship

Tuesday, October 18, 2016 Personal Development Leadership, relationships, Stakeholders Permalink

Fostering a working relationship is critical for your and your organization’s success. Don’t tell me you don’t have time to diddle-daddle and that you have more important things to do.

Successful leaders understand that they need to connect with the people who contribute to their deadlines and help get things done on their projects. Why should a stakeholder care about you or your business initiatives if you don’t show that you appreciate and value their contributions? They’ll care to go the extra mile when you invest time to connect with them as colleagues and people.

How can you develop a working relationship?

Yes, we are all very busy and have multiple projects and compelling priorities. But, here are seven things that you can do in ten minutes or less:

Tell them what they’re doing well. Everyone grows weary of critical feedback. Be on the lookout for what others are doing well and tell them that you notice their actions. Getting told what you’re doing right, goes a long way.
Write a thank you note. Handwritten is preferable, but even an email thanking someone for their support, an act of kindness, or an extra effort will go a long way to build a relationship.
Encourage them when they’re down. Everyone needs a little extra “I know you can do it!” from time to time. Watch for your opportunity to encourage others.
Let them know you’re thinking of them. Has someone been absent from work/your life for a while? When they return, let them know you’ve thought of them and missed them. We all like to know that we’re recognized
Let them talk. Ten minutes of listening to someone goes a long way in creating a relationship. Stop talking and just listen to them, even if you disagree.
Ask them about their family, their history, or their hobbies. When you learn a little more about their life outside of work, you have something to start the next conversation and this will continue to foster your relationship.
See them in person or pick up the phone. We rely too much on email. Walk to their office or go to their place of business. If they’re too far away, pick up the phone for a conversation. Face-to-face communication is the best way to handle sticky subjects or smooth over misunderstandings.

These are examples of things you can do that take a little time out of your busy day. These little snippets of time will go a long way to foster good, strong relationships that will help you get those important things done.

[social_quote duplicate=”no” align=”default”]The most important single ingredient in the formula of success is knowing how to get along with people. — Theodore Roosevelt[/social_quote]