In today’s world, the strength of your relationships is the biggest predictor of your success. Studies have found that those who have the most robust network of personal and professional connections are not only happier, but more successful in their career, in terms of career advancement and survival. So, what are the key ingredients in creating these connections and, how can you make them stronger to support long-term success?
1. Trust as the Foundation
Research Insight: Trust is the basis of any fruitful bond. According to a study in Harvard Business Review workers who consider their coworkers and superiors trustworthy typically generate 50% more work and are at least 76% more invested in their work.
Professional Tips Establish trust with sincerity in your communication. Be sure to follow up on any commitments you make and always communicate with authenticity.
Key Quote Trust is the glue of life. It’s the most essential ingredient in effective communication. It’s the foundational principle that holds all relationships. “Stephen Covey”
2. Effective Communication:
It has been long known that effective communication adds satisfaction and less conflict between people. Communication leaders at the National Communication Association have written about how clear communication makes for good professional and personal relationships.
Active listening is as important as speaking. Between speaking and responding, give time to understand others; show empathy while communicating.
3. The Power of Empathy and Emotional Intelligence
Emotional intelligence is a close relative to relationship-building. An ongoing Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence grant has pointed out that individuals with higher emotional intelligence are more capable of managing interpersonal dynamics and cultivating collaboration.
Work on empathy put yourself in other people’s places become more self aware, and control your emotional reactions in difficult situations.
4. Mutual Support
The Power of Networking. Networking is not just about getting a more lucrative job or promotions; rather it is about mutual support. According to further understanding in this arena, by the University of Notre Dame’s study, those that actively support their networking members enjoy 30% greater levels of career satisfaction than their counterparts.
Professional Tip. Network with mutual value. Always be ready and willing to help, especially before asking for anything. Establish the relationships of mutual wins in professional life.
5. Consistency and Reliability
Long Term Relations. Consistency and reliability are key when maintaining long-term relationships. Studies in the Journal of Applied Psychology state that consistency leads to a better trust factor among the cohorts and colleagues.
“Be consistent in the way you communicate, your work ethic, and supporting other people. By being reliable, you can create lasting connections and further build long-lasting success.”
Conclusion:
So vital is the ability to build and nurture strong relationships to success that a successful latter part of your life is undergirded by these powerful personal or professional bonds you have made. The research is conclusive—trust, communication, empathy, and consistency would be the abiding characteristics of whatever would be considered an honest bond. Setting aside time and energies for developing such virtues not only facilitates collaboration but is also key to your growth and development.
Do it:
Success you would seek in life and work will begin from the quality of the relationships you build today. Make them solid and meaningful; let them serve as the prism of future success.
