Keeping it Together by Nurturing Relationships
As a business owner and mother of three kids ages five and under (soon to be four this October) it’s sometimes hard to nurture relationships while getting everything else done. It’s easy to get caught behind a computer all day, so here are some tips that speak to the value of nurturing relationships:
Give Kudos
Recognition strengthens relationships. Show your colleagues you appreciate their hard work. Send your clients congratulations notes for awards they’ve won. Tell your kids how nice it is to see them working together. Give one recognition a day to make you and your peeps feel great!
Be Polite
A “thank you” is priceless. When you know someone has worked hard on something, thank them. When you receive a gift, thank the sender with a note, even if you may have said thank you in person. Watch the tone of your voice when asking for favors or help with projects. Be polite but not cheesy. Tone, delivery, and follow-up make all the difference.
Follow Through
Communication nurtures relationships. Whether you gave your client a Friday deadline or told your kids you’d take them to the park, do what you say you’ll do. If you find that people continuously check up on your project statuses, it may be a sign that you could do more to keep them in the loop. If you’re running late, be up front and communicate changes as soon as they happen.
Following through with these tips will strengthen relationships naturally when you’re stretched for time. Friends, family, and colleagues will know you’re there through your courteous actions and responses.
—Melissa Harrison is principal and creative director at Allee, a Twin Cities strategic communications and design firm. Connect with her through email or facebook. You can also follow Allee on Twitter or find them online at www.alleecreative.com.