What is a power relationship? So many people think it has to do with money, prestige, job title and so much more when it’s really very simple. It consists of many people like friends, contacts, people who have a meaningful message and even great teachers.
Power relationships can be long or short-term, and can be local or long distance.
Tips for developing power relationships
The best power relationships are reciprocal. The most important thing is not to create a power relationship for only your benefit. No one likes to be part of a one-sided partnering or feeling taken advantage of but there are times when you have a mentor or guide who is in a position to only help you while you may not have gotten to the point where you can contribute to him or her.
Some of your clients will be in a position to assist you with new cases. They may take you along through referrals and contacts. Hopefully you are keeping in touch with everyone you meet on some kind of basis so you don’t fall between the cracks and they forget about you. In today’s social media and electronic world, it’s easier than ever.
A question you should always be asking yourself about your clients is, “How can I make their lives better?” or “How can I serve them?”
Hopefully they are asking themselves the same thing for you. Just remember, you don’t go into a relationship just for the contact. Yes, you may only be directed to a person because of a relationship you want, but by deepening that you are creating a friend for life and there is no substitute for that. No ulterior motives are endorsed and once you get the hang of this, you’ll find it quite easy.
Gayle Carson has a Doctorate in Education and is a CSP (Certified Speaking Professional) and a CMC (Certified Management Consultant). She has been a business owner for over 5 decades and has used these methodologies to build them. She built her first business from 1 location to 7 with 350 people. She built her second business to over 1000 clients in 50 industries in 50 countries and 49 states. She continues to use these skills. Learn how to develop power relationships here.