Executive relationship building
Unlock Executive Power: Master the Art of Relationship Building
executive relationship building, executive team building activities, executive team building retreats, executive team building activities free, c suite executive relationship building, what is the role of relationship executive, what does a relationship executive doHow To Build Relationships With Senior Executives by Ian Brodie - More Clients TV
Title: How To Build Relationships With Senior Executives
Channel: Ian Brodie - More Clients TV
Unlock Executive Power: Master the Art of Relationship Building - The Messy Truth
Okay, let's be real: "Unlock Executive Power: Master the Art of Relationship Building" sounds like some sleek, corporate mantra, yeah? Like, a slick brochure promising instant success. Bleh. But the truth? It's a messy, complicated, often infuriating, but ultimately crucial part of, well, everything in the executive world. And frankly, it's less about "mastering" – honestly, who truly masters anything human? – and more about navigating the sheer chaos of human connection with some degree of… success.
My own journey? It's been like learning to ride a bike… blindfolded… downhill… with a gaggle of chattering squirrels trying to steal your wheels. Let me explain…
The Promised Land: Why Relationships Really Matter
They tell you, and they're right (damn it), that building strong relationships is the key to the kingdom. Unlock Executive Power: you need to know how to schmooze, network, connect, and empathize… and then, you just will unlock the doors to achievement and influence. They say it's about:
Enhanced Influence: Yeah, totally true. People are way more likely to listen to you, support your ideas, and greenlight your crazy schemes (or, you know, more sensible plans) when they like you, or at least, respect you. It's about trust. It's about “I’ve got your back” kind of vibes. My VP, Brenda (we’ll get back to Brenda), she had this uncanny ability, genuinely, to make even the most cynical board members want to help her. Not because she had the perfect pitch – sometimes her ideas were… questionable (eyes roll), but because she had formed a deep rapport with everyone she met and cared.
Increased Collaboration: Silos? Gone! Teams working like a well-oiled (and not-toxic) machine? Check! When you build actual relationships across departments, you're less likely to get stonewalled, ignored, or sabotaged. It's about shared goals, not just a rigid chain of command. This is a no-brainer, yet so damn hard to execute on.
Better Problem Solving: Having a network you can tap into when the you-know-what hits the fan… priceless. Need a quick answer? Need an expert opinion? Need someone to calmly tell you you're not an idiot? They are right there! Seriously, I've seen it save careers.
Career Progression: This is the big one, isn't it? Let's be blunt: the higher you climb, the more important relationships become. It's not just about what you know; it's about who you know. I used to scoff at this… until I saw it in action… everywhere.
Reduced Risk of Burnout: Believe it or not, people often burn out because of isolation, lack of support, or the feeling of being a lone wolf. Strong connections provide a buffer. A support system. Someone to grab a virtual (or real) coffee with when you feel you're about to implode.
See? Sound all sunshine and roses. It's almost true. But the truth? It’s rarely that simple.
The Dark Side of Connection: The Tricky Bits
Now, here’s the real tea. Building relationships is a two-way street paved with landmines. And sometimes, it just blows up in your face. Let's face it, some of the things we need to do to build those relationships are… well… they're not always pretty.
The Time Suck: Let's be honest – it takes time. Meetings, lunches, "networking events" (shudder)… It's a constant drain on your already limited hours. It can feel like you’re perpetually "on," which is exhausting. What about actually, you know, working? If you got a bad time management system, it can turn ugly real quick.
The Authenticity Dilemma: How much of yourself do you really show? Are you being genuine, or are you crafting a carefully curated persona? I've seen people try too hard, become utterly inauthentic… and fail spectacularly. You can smell fake from a mile away. It's a fine line.
The Favor Expectation: Build relationships, and you’re expected to return the favor. Always. Which is fair, right? But what if you're asked to do something that goes against your ethics? What if you're forced to choose between loyalty and your principles? Been there. Done that. It sucks.
The Potential for Manipulation: Sadly, some people use relationships… to use you. To climb their own ladder. To exploit your trust. Ugh. This is the worst. You have to be aware, be self-aware. Be protective of your time, energy, beliefs and values.
The "Clique-y" Problem: Let's face it, some organizations are just… cliquey. If you’re not "in," it can be incredibly difficult to gain access and build meaningful connections. You may have to deal with the cool kids club, the 'insider' jokes, and the feeling of being an outsider - which can be a very lonely and discouraging thing.
The Emotional Toll: Building relationships, especially deep ones, takes emotional energy. You have to be vulnerable, show empathy, deal with conflict… It can be draining, especially if you're already juggling a million things.
Brenda: The Case Study in Messy, Beautiful Connection
Ah, Brenda. I mentioned her earlier. She's the embodiment of relationship-building, flaws and all. Brenda:
Knew Everyone’s Name: Seriously, everyone. From the CEO to the mailroom clerk. She made an effort to remember their kids' names, their hobbies, their pet peeves. It wasn't always perfect - she often mixed them up, but that made her even more endearing.
Was Awkward as Hell: She wore her heart on her sleeve. A little too much information, sometimes at the completely wrong time. She had this… very strong opinions. She wasn’t afraid to tell it like it is.
Was Fiercely Loyal: If you were in Brenda's circle, she would champion and defend you to the very end, even if she disagreed with you.
Was Never Afraid to Have a Good Messy Argument: She wasn’t afraid to stir the pot, to challenge the status quo. Not a passive-aggressive bone in her body. She’d go out on a limb and have a fight—and then, the next day, she’d be having coffee with the person she just spent an hour arguing with, like nothing happened.
Embraced Imperfection: She was human! She made mistakes, she blundered, she sometimes completely misjudged a situation. But she owned it. It’s like she was saying, "Yeah, I'm not perfect. But I'm trying."
The thing about Brenda? People trusted her. Really trusted her. Because they knew she was real, she was consistent, and she genuinely cared.
Tools of the Trade: How to Actually Do It (and Not Want to Vomit)
So, how do you navigate this minefield? How do you Unlock Executive Power: Master the Art of Relationship Building without, you know, losing your damn mind? Here's my somewhat-jaded-but-hopefully-helpful toolkit:
Be Authentic (But Smart About It): The best advice I can give you is be yourself. Your best self, the one that's genuine and approachable. But also, be smart about it. Know your audience. Know the office culture.
Listen More Than You Talk: It’s a cliché, but it’s true. People love to talk about themselves. Truly listen. Ask follow-up questions. Show genuine interest.
Small Gestures, Big Impact: A handwritten thank-you note. Remember a birthday. Ask about their family. These small things build trust and show you care. And… no, don’t get caught up in the, ‘are you being authentic?’ debate. Be genuine.
Find Common Ground: Shared interests? Shared goals? Shared gripes about the printer? Find something to connect on.
Set Boundaries: You don’t have to be friends with everyone. It's okay to decline invitations, to say no to favors, to protect your time and energy.
Embrace the Mess: Relationships are messy. There will be misunderstandings, conflicts, and awkward moments. Don't strive for perfection. Strive for connection. And learn to laugh at the ridiculousness of it all.
Seek Mentors and Allies: Find people who "get it". People who can offer advice, support, and a reality check when you need it.
Be Willing to Be Vulnerable: It's scary, but vulnerability is the glue that binds people together. And it helps if you’re awkward -- it shows you’re human.
Have a Clear Purpose: A lot of this
How To Build Executive Relationships by Ian Brodie - More Clients TV
Title: How To Build Executive Relationships
Channel: Ian Brodie - More Clients TV
Alright, let's talk about something super important, something we don't talk about enough: Executive relationship building. You know, the stuff that actually moves the needle, the kind of relationships that let you get stuff done and enjoy the ride while you're at it. Forget the stiff, corporate jargon – we're going for real connections here. Think of it as building a strong, supportive network, not just a collection of LinkedIn profiles you've vaguely met.
I’ve been around the block a few times, seen the good, the bad, and the downright awkward attempts at building these crucial relationships. So, grab a comfy seat, maybe a coffee (I’ve got mine!), and let’s dive in.
Beyond the Business Card: Why Executive Relationship Building Matters (Like, Really Matters)
Look, in the executive world, you're juggling a million plates. You're making decisions, managing teams, and constantly putting out fires. You need a support system. And that support system isn't just your direct reports. It’s knowing who to call when you're facing a tricky situation. It’s having someone you trust to bounce ideas off of, someone who'll be brutally honest with you even when it hurts. It's the power of influence and collaboration amongst your peers—a crucial element in your own career trajectory. Building strategic professional relationships and cultivating strong executive network is like investing in an insurance policy for your career, a safety net ready for whatever the business world throws your way.
It’s also about your sanity! Seriously. Isolation at the top is a real thing. Having genuine connections, people you can be yourself with, can be the difference between loving what you do and feeling utterly burnt out.
Actionable Advice: Your Executive Relationship Building Toolkit
Alright, so how do we actually do this? Forget the generic advice. Here's the real deal:
1. Forget the Formal Luncheons (Mostly)
Okay, formal lunches are fine, but they're not the magic bullet. They can feel forced and transactional. Instead, think about:
- Informal Coffee Dates: Seriously, a quick 30-minute coffee chat is gold. It’s less intimidating, easier to schedule, and allows for more genuine conversation. This is the perfect setting for discussing executive leadership networking or cultivating mentorship within your professional relationships.
- Shared Experiences: This could be anything – a weekend conference, a volunteer event, even a shared exercise class (if you're both into that). Shared experiences create bonds. They give you something to talk about beyond the usual business talk.
- Follow-Up is Key: Don't just meet and vanish. Send a quick email, share an article that might interest them, or just say, "Hey, it was great connecting at [event]!" This is about investing time in developing impactful professional relationships.
2. Be Genuinely Interested, Not Just Interesting
This is HUGE. People can spot a fake a mile away. Ask questions. Listen actively. Remember details about their families, their hobbies, what they are passionate about. This is especially important in building trust through executive partnerships.
- The "Two Ears, One Mouth" Rule: Seriously, listen more than you talk. And when you do talk, make it count. Share your own experiences, but don't dominate the conversation.
- Memorize Names (and Pronunciations!): It's a small thing, but using someone's name correctly goes a long way. There's a significant difference in the relationship-building process when you can properly address someone.
- Find Common Ground: Don't just focus on business. What are your mutual interests? Do you support the same charities? Do you both love a particular type of music or sport? This creates a foundation beyond the boardroom.
3. The Power of Vulnerability (Yes, Really!)
Look, I know, the corporate world can feel like a minefield. But showing a little vulnerability – admitting you don't have all the answers, sharing a personal challenge – can actually strengthen your relationships. It shows you're human, that you're not perfect.
Now, I'm not saying spill your guts at every meeting. There's a balance, of course. But being willing to be a little real can be incredibly powerful. This can enhance your skills for effective leadership communication and help you develop strategic professional relationships.
4. Give Before You Get (It's Not About Transactional Exchanges!)
I get it. You have a network. You want connections. But if you're only thinking about what you can get from these connections, you're doing it wrong. Offer value first:
- Offer Help: Know someone who is struggling with a particular challenge? Offer your expertise or connections.
- Share Resources: Pass along helpful articles, industry insights, or introductions to people who can benefit them.
- Be a Connector: Introduce people who could benefit from knowing each other. This is one of the best ways to create a professional network and foster collaboration among high-level executives.
5. Take the Initiative (Don't Wait to Be Asked Out)
Guess what? You need to be proactive. You can’t sit around waiting for the perfect networking opportunity to fall into your lap.
- Reach Out Deliberately: Don't be afraid to reach out to people you admire. Send a LinkedIn message, email, or if you have it, make a call. Be specific about why you want to connect. “I was really impressed with your presentation about [topic], and I’d love to pick your brain about [specific area]” is far more effective than a generic message.
- Be Persistent (But Not Annoying): It might take more than one attempt to connect with someone. If they don't respond to your initial message, don't take it personally. Try again in a few weeks. They are incredibly busy and can have full inboxes.
- Make it a Habit: The more you do it, the easier it becomes. Improve your executive communication skills by making relationship building a regular part of your routine.
Anecdote Time (Because We All Love a Good Story)
Okay, so I once worked with this brilliant CEO. He was a superstar, but honestly? He was socially awkward. He'd go to networking events, make small talk about the company, and then vanish before anyone really knew him. I remember trying to convince him to just go to a local bookstore (he loved reading) and just, you know, chat with someone about a book. He was terrified. He couldn't imagine a "business reason" for doing so. The poor guy thought every interaction had to have a specific, measurable ROI.
Here’s the kicker: He was struggling to close a crucial deal. He knew the right people, knew the industry, but he just couldn't get the final agreement. Then, he started volunteering at a local food bank. He got to know a few of the other volunteers, one of whom happened to be the spouse of a key decision-maker in the deal. They talked about their families, their passions, and yes, the deal eventually closed. It was a pivotal moment for him—he truly understood the power of building genuinely human connections. It's proof that developing emotional intelligence in leadership is integral to building successful executive relationships. And, he started going to that bookstore.
The Imperfections of Perfect Executive Relationship Building
Here's the thing: You're not going to be perfect at this. You'll mess up, you'll say the wrong thing, you'll accidentally forget someone's name (ugh!). It’s going to happen. And that’s okay!
Reflect on how to improve your relationship building process and embrace the imperfections. Every interaction is a learning opportunity. The more you practice, the more natural it will feel.
The Long Game: Cultivating Long-Term Executive Relationships
Executive relationship building is a marathon, not a sprint. It's about nurturing relationships over time, staying in touch, and being there for each other.
- Regular Check-Ins: Even a quick email or text message to check in can make a difference.
- Celebrate Successes: Acknowledge their accomplishments, whether it's a promotion, a project win, or a personal milestone. This reinforces the importance of building trust through collaborative efforts and fostering empathy within your professional network.
- Be a Constant Resource: Always look for ways to help, even when you don't need anything yourself. Strengthen your executive network for long-term success by focusing on reciprocity and mutual support.
Conclusion: Your Next Step – Start Now!
Alright, that's the inside scoop. Executive relationship building isn't some mystical art reserved for the naturally charismatic. It's a skill you can learn and develop. It's about being human, being present, and genuinely caring about the people you interact with.
So, stop reading and start doing. Tomorrow, reach out to someone you've been meaning to connect with. Send that email. Make that call. Start building the network you need and deserve.
What's the first step you're going to take? Let me know in the comments below. I'm genuinely interested! And remember, the best time to start building those relationships was yesterday. The second-
Executive Relationships: The Secret Weapon for Long-Term SuccessRelationship Management What Business School can't teach Kristina Spillane TEDxBostonCollege by TEDx Talks
Title: Relationship Management What Business School can't teach Kristina Spillane TEDxBostonCollege
Channel: TEDx Talks
Unlock Executive Power: Master the Art of Relationship Building - You *Actually* Want to Know Stuff
Okay, Seriously, What's This "Relationship Building" Thing Anyway? Sounds... Fluffy.
Fluffy? Dude, I get it. I used to think the whole "relationship building" thing was about pretending to like people until you get what you want. Honestly, my first thought was, "Ugh, more networking events. Nope." But it's SO much more than that.
Think of it this way: imagine you're trying to climb a mountain. You *could* hack your way up solo, slipping on rocks and getting blisters. Or, you could team up with experienced climbers who already know the best paths, have gear, and cheer you on when you're ready to chuck your ice axe into the abyss. Relationship building is finding those climbers. It's about cultivating a network of people who actually enjoy helping you, and vice versa.
And, yeah, sometimes it IS about networking events. I'm still not a fan. I once spent three hours at a conference trying to escape a guy who wouldn't stop talking about crypto. (Shudder.) But it's not just about schmoozing; it's about genuinely connecting with people, finding common ground, and helping each other succeed. It's about building trust, which is the freaking bedrock of EVERYTHING in business. Forget about mastering the art, it's a freaking art!
What's the Biggest Mistake People Make When Trying to Build Relationships?
Ugh, THE biggest mistake? Trying to *fake* it. It's so transparent! Look, people can smell insincerity from a mile away. I remember I once tried to "network" at a tech conference. I'd memorized a bunch of buzzwords and was spewing them like a broken coffee machine. Predictably, I ended up awkwardly alone in a corner, nursing a lukewarm Chardonnay and regretting all my life choices. They saw straight through my BS, and rightly so!
People want authenticity. They want to know you're genuinely interested in *them*, not just what they can do for you. Focus on listening, asking open-ended questions (not just, "So, what do you do?"), and finding genuine points of connection. Did I mention listening? Listen! It's shocking how few people actually do it. And for the love of all that is holy, don't interrupt!
I'm Awkward. Like, REALLY Awkward. Can I *actually* do this?
Oh honey, me too! I used to be convinced I was destined to be a hermit. My attempts at small talk were legendary for their ability to clear a room. Seriously, I once accidentally made someone cry at a company potluck (don't ask).
But here's the secret: It's not about being a natural social butterfly. It's about practice, baby! Start small. Try smiling at the barista, asking your mail carrier how their day is going. The tiny interactions are just as crucial. Don't be afraid of a little awkwardness. Embrace it! It makes you human. Try to practice active listening. Most people are so self-absorbed, you'll be ahead of the game just by paying attention to them, and remembering their children's names.
The more you do it, the easier it gets. Promise. And if you mess up? So what! Learn from it, laugh about it, and move on. It's like riding a bike. You'll crash, you'll scrape your knees, but eventually, you'll be cruising. And hey, a little awkwardness can be endearing. Or so I tell myself.
How do I actually *start* building new relationships? The thought makes me want to hide under a blanket.
Ah, the blanket fort dilemma. Been there. Okay, here's a starting point: start small, start where you are. Don't feel like you need to go out and conquer the world.
- **Reach out!** Seriously, a simple email or LinkedIn message can work wonders. Congratulate someone on a success, share an article you think they'd like, or just say, "Hey, I've been meaning to connect!" Don't ask for something immediately, make a connection.
- **The coffee/tea strategy:** Coffee or tea dates are perfect. Low pressure, you're not committed for hours, and a good place to connect.
- **Identify your interests:** Find events, groups, or online communities that align with your passions. This makes it easier to strike up conversations because you're already starting from a shared interest.
- **Follow up.** Don't just meet someone and disappear! Send a follow up email, connect on LinkedIn, or send a quick "nice to meet you" message.
The key is to be proactive, but don't be pushy. People can feel desperation, and that's a major turnoff. Think about the people you already know, too. People you used to be friends with, people you worked with, people you went to school with. Reconnect!
What if I mess up? What if I offend someone?
Okay, deep breaths. You *will* mess up. It's inevitable. I once accidentally called my boss by his son's name in a meeting. Mortifying! I wanted the ground to swallow me whole. My face burned with shame! It happens.
The important thing is how you handle it. If you realize you've said something insensitive or offensive, apologize genuinely. Own your mistake. Don't make excuses. Then, just move on. Don't dwell on it (too much). Learn from it. Even the most skilled relationship builders stumble! We're human.
And be prepared to be misunderstood. Communication breakdowns happen. It doesn't *always* mean you failed. It might just mean the other person interpreted something differently. Clear communication goes a long way!
It Sounds like A Lot of Work. Is all this *really* worth it?
Honestly? Yes. A thousand times yes. Now, building good relationships, the *right* relationships, takes time, and effort. But it's an investment that pays off exponentially. I used to think I could do everything myself. I was a lone wolf, and I was miserable.
Having a strong network opens doors you never knew existed. It provides support, guidance, and opportunities you'd miss out on otherwise. When I was starting my own business, it was my connections that helped me find investors, find my first clients, and make the right decisions. My support system, it made all the difference in the world. It also helps maintain your mental health! People who have good relationships are, on average, much happier and healthier.
Plus, it's just...better. Life is more enjoyable when you have people in your corner, cheering you on. I also learned a lot about myself and other people. Building relationships has helped me become a better listener, a more empathetic person, and a more effective leader. And sometimes you just need someone to remind you
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