Tips for Building Supportive Professional Relationships

🌟 Leading with Empathy: Supporting Your Team Through Life's Challenges 🌟 I had some amazing conversations this past week and wanted to share my thoughts. As managers, we're not just responsible for driving business results; we're also entrusted with the well-being of our team members (contractors and employees). Life's challenges, whether it be divorce, loss, or personal struggles, can deeply impact an individual's professional life. Here are four ways we can foster a supportive environment for our team during difficult times: 1️⃣ Create a Culture of Compassion: Lead by example by demonstrating empathy and understanding. Encourage open communication and assure your team that it's okay to discuss personal struggles without fear of judgment. By fostering a culture of compassion, you cultivate a supportive work environment where individuals feel valued and understood. 2️⃣ Clarify Roles and Responsibilities: Provide clarity on job expectations and responsibilities, ensuring that your team members understand what is expected of them. By making their roles crystal clear, you alleviate unnecessary stress and uncertainty, allowing them to focus on navigating through life's challenges without added work-related worries. 3️⃣ Flexible Work Arrangements: Recognize that employees may need flexibility to attend to personal matters during challenging times. Offer flexible work arrangements such as remote work options, flexible hours, or additional time off to accommodate their needs. By prioritizing work-life balance, you demonstrate that you value your team's well-being beyond their contributions to the business. 4️⃣ Provide Resources and Support: Ensure that your team members are aware of the resources available to them, both within the company and externally. This may include Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), counseling services, or support groups. Encourage individuals to seek the help they need and reassure them that it's a sign of strength, not weakness, to ask for support. By proactively supporting your team through life's challenges, you not only foster loyalty and trust but also enhance overall morale and productivity. Let's lead with empathy and compassion, creating a workplace where every team member feels supported and valued. Tag a fellow manager who prioritizes employee well-being, and let's inspire others to lead with empathy! 🌟 #LeadingWithEmpathy #SupportiveWorkplace #TeamWellBeing Personal Reflection: I was homeless for a month when I was starting Syssero® and while I didn't have a manager, I had friends (Ryan Massie, Cassandra (Cazzi) Coleman, Julie Christenson and many more) and family who supported me along the way. You never know what others are going through, they don't have to tell you, but you can be the empathic leader that gives them clarity through the chaos.

Starting a new job is a mix of excitement and nerves. We all know the importance of making a solid first impression, but there's another thing I put high on the priority list when joining a new company... networking. Now, I'm not talking about just shaking hands and remembering names. What I mean is genuinely connecting with people in a way that's going to make my job more enjoyable and effective. 1. Be Approachable and Open: Smile, make eye contact, and be accessible. People are more likely to approach you if you seem friendly.    2. Utilize Onboarding Events: These are great opportunities to meet people. Don’t just stick to your department... branch out to understand the broader business.    3. Schedule Introductory Meetings: Don’t wait for others. Take the initiative to schedule short introductory meetings with teammates and stakeholders. 4. Active Listening: When talking to someone, listen more than you speak. This not only makes a good impression but also helps you gather valuable insights about the team and company culture. 5. Offer Value: Whether it's sharing an article or volunteering for a project, offering something of value creates a two-way street in your professional relationships. 6. Seek Mentorship: Having a mentor in the first month can really accelerate your understanding of the company’s internal landscape. 7. Follow-Up: Always send a quick thank-you note or a message to acknowledge others time and insights. It not only shows your appreciation but also opens the door for future interactions. 8. Use Internal Communication Tools: Platforms like Microsoft Teams have various channels. Participate in conversations and showcase your expertise without overpowering others. 9. Be Consistent: Networking isn’t a one-off activity... it’s about being consistently present and engaged. Don't vanish after the first meeting or interaction. Keep the conversation going. Networking isn't just about what you can gain... it's a mutual relationship. Offer help where you can and don't be afraid to ask for advice... It's a two-way street. After all, as the saying goes, "Your network is your net worth." #Networking #Careers #Jobs

Let us pause for a moment to reflect on the timeless principle that transcends generations: "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you." In a world driven by ambition and competition, it's easy to overlook the importance of #empathy and #kindness. However, I firmly believe that fostering a culture of #respect and #understanding is the key to building meaningful and lasting professional relationships. At Dunlap Law PLC our collective vision is a workplace where every colleague genuinely cares about each other's well-being, where collaboration is based on trust, and #highperformance is celebrated as a collective achievement. This vision becomes reality by embracing the Golden Rule in our daily interactions. Here are a few ways we can apply the Golden Rule in our professional lives: 1️⃣ Active Listening: Truly listen to your colleagues and clients without judgment. Show them the same attention and respect you would expect in return. 2️⃣ Empathy: Put yourself in others' shoes and understand their challenges and aspirations. Offer support and assistance as you would hope to receive in similar circumstances. 3️⃣ Recognition and Appreciation: Acknowledge the efforts and accomplishments of your team members and peers. A simple "thank you" can go a long way. 4️⃣ Constructive Feedback: Provide feedback with compassion and a growth mindset. Remember how you'd like to be approached if you were in their position. 5️⃣ Mentorship: Be open to guiding and uplifting others. Pay forward the guidance you received and help someone else reach their full potential. 6️⃣ Fairness: Treat everyone equitably and inclusively. Respect diversity and create an environment where everyone feels valued. 7️⃣ Integrity: Act ethically and with honesty in all your endeavors. Trust is the foundation of strong relationships. Let's challenge ourselves to be the change we wish to see in the professional world. By living the #goldenrule, we can create an atmosphere of positivity, collaboration, and mutual growth. Together, we can build bridges and create opportunities that benefit not just ourselves but the entire community around us. I'd love to hear your thoughts on this timeless principle and how you integrate it into your professional life. Together, let's make our workplaces more compassionate and successful, one kind gesture at a time. #GoldenRule #ProfessionalEthics #CompassionateLeadership #KindnessAtWork #LinkedinCommunity

Build relationships and not a network. "Networking" is cringeworthy for many, especially those who feel it is selfish, wrong, or uncomfortable. The good news is that nobody wants to be at the receiving end of your networking efforts too. If you are trying the same old networking tips that promise to boost your connections but leave you feeling more disconnected than ever, that is because networking is killing relationship building. Stop networking and build genuine relationships. You can do that by thinking about a few things. ➡️ Be genuinely curious - Be interested in learning more about the other person in the conversation. ➡️ Find commonalities - Find common topics like books, kids, dogs, and food but remember that while discussing such common topics can be a good icebreaker, relying solely on these surface-level interests can hinder deeper connections. Dig a little deeper into shared passions or experiences to foster a more meaningful bond. ➡️ Relationships over transactions - Don't treat networking as a transaction. Look for ways to help others genuinely without expecting an immediate return or any return. Building a network based on mutual support and generosity fosters authentic connections that go beyond mere self-interest. ➡️ Notes of gratitude vs. genuine appreciation - Sending notes of gratitude can be powerful, but they lose their impact if they become a routine gesture. Instead, express genuine appreciation when someone has truly made a difference. Personalized and heartfelt acknowledgments go a long way in building lasting connections. ➡️ Public networks vs. personal connections - Investing in public networks can widen your reach, but don't neglect the importance of personal connections. Balancing both public and private networks ensures a well-rounded and authentic approach to relationship building. Remember fostering genuine relationships is important. By avoiding the common pitfalls of networking and focusing on authentic connections, you will be building a network that truly matters.

Are you looking to grow professionally through networking? Here are some expert tips to help guide your efforts: 1. Start by defining your objectives. Determine your goals before expanding your network. Having clear objectives will guide your networking efforts. 2. Focus on clarity when communicating with others. Avoid trying to impress with jargon or titles. Instead, focus on being understood quickly and easily. 3. Prioritize building relationships over collecting business cards. Add value to your network by asking how you can support others. This fosters trust and mutual support. 4. Help your network connect with each other. Introduce contacts who can benefit from each other's services or expertise. This adds value to your network and strengthens relationships. 5. Attend events that genuinely interest you, rather than just following the crowd. This allows you to be yourself and engage more authentically. Especially if you have a limited budget. 6. Networking is not just an event; it's a mindset. Be interested in others, ask powerful questions, and listen deeply. This approach helps build trust and lasting connections. 7. Schedule regular touch-base calls or meetings with contacts. This keeps relationships fresh and helps you support each other's work and career development. 8. Instead of focusing on what people do, get to know their motivations and passions. This deeper understanding can lead to more meaningful connections and longer lasting relationships. 9. Have a plan when attending networking events. Know who you want to meet and what you hope to gain from the event. This preparation can increase your chances of success. Pre-event planning. 10. Be attuned to the body language and vocal delivery of others. This awareness can help you interpret their intent and respond appropriately. 11. After networking, follow up with new contacts. Keep your promises and maintain the momentum of your relationships. Deliver some complimentary tips, ideas or recommendations. Remember, networking is a skill that requires time, effort, and patience. Building a strong professional network is an ongoing process that can open doors to new opportunities and enrich your professional and personal life.

Ever wondered how to forge connections that aren't just meaningful, but also mutually beneficial? The key lies in one simple principle: Focus on adding value to others. In today's fast-paced professional world, it's easy to get caught up in what we need and want. But the most enduring and impactful relationships are built when we shift our mindset from 'What can I get?' to 'What can I give?' Here are a few strategies to make that shift: Share Your Expertise: Offer insights or advice in your area of expertise. It's not just about answering questions, but also about providing thoughtful content that can help others grow. Listen Actively: Sometimes, the best way to add value is simply by being a great listener. Understanding someone's challenges or goals can open doors to how you might be able to help. Connect People: If you know two contacts who could benefit from knowing each other, make the introduction. Facilitating valuable connections is a powerful way to add value. Celebrate Others: Acknowledge and celebrate the achievements of your connections. A simple congratulatory message can go a long way in strengthening a relationship. Stay Authentic: In all interactions, authenticity is key. Genuine interest and care can't be faked and are the foundation of any lasting relationship. By consistently adding value, you not only enrich your network but also pave the way for a professional journey filled with meaningful connections. What strategies do you use to build impactful relationships? Let's share and learn from each other in the comments below! 👇 #Networking #RelationshipBuilding #ProfessionalGrowth #GiversGain #Leadership

As a recruiter, I am a firm believer in the extraordinary power of listening, considering it one of our most crucial abilities. In the rush of our busy lives, it's easy to underestimate the impact of truly hearing someone. But make no mistake, it can be a game-changer - both professionally and personally. » Listening Builds Trust: When we actively listen to our candidates and clients, we're not just hearing words; we're absorbing their stories, aspirations, and concerns. This builds a foundation of trust that is vital in our line of work. Trust opens doors, fosters collaboration, and paves the way for genuine relationships. » Meeting Needs: Every candidate and client has unique needs. By listening attentively, we gain the insight needed to tailor our services to precisely those needs. It's like having a map to navigate the often complex terrain of recruitment. » Valuing Perspectives: Listening also allows us to appreciate different perspectives. It reminds us that diversity isn't just about backgrounds and experiences; it's about the richness of ideas that emerge when we truly engage with others. » Resolving Issues: In the face of challenges or conflicts, listening can be the first step to resolution. It shows empathy and a willingness to understand, which can be the turning point in solving even the most intricate problems. So, how can we cultivate this superpower? ☆ Be Present: Put away distractions and give your full attention. Show that you value what the other person is saying. ☆ Empathize: Try to understand not just the words but the emotions behind them. This empathy is the bedrock of trust. ☆ Ask Questions: Encourage open dialogue. Sometimes, the most profound insights emerge from the questions we ask. ☆ Practice Patience: Listening takes time, but it's an investment that pays dividends in the form of strong, lasting relationships. ☆ Feedback Loop: Remember, listening isn't just about hearing; it's about responding. Show that you've listened by taking actions that reflect what you've heard. In the realm of recruitment, much like in life itself, I believe the art of listening serves as our covert advantage. It enables us to forge profound connections, deliver authentic value, and, ultimately, leave a positive imprint. #BuildingTrust #LoveWhatYouDo #YouMatter #EffectiveCommunication Next Level Career Partners, LLC

The power of relationships can be a multiplier in life... and your career is no exception. Who you know often trumps what you know... and at the executive level, fit-and-finish (as it's referred to amongst headhunters) quite often tips the scale over an above pedigree. So, how do you become better at building relationships? Not just transactionally connecting and networking, but truly building the bonds of trust and going an "inch wide, mile deep" with another human. Curiosity is the true superpower here. While I believe it's more innate from some than others... I also believe we ALL have the ability to build the muscle. One simple shift to start is the move from agreement to insight. Try this in your next few conversations... when you find yourself responding to what someone else says with "I agree," "I disagree," or the equivalent... Slow down and get curious. Instead, maybe ask... "That's an interesting take. I'm curious, have you always looked at things that way?" "That's a powerful perspective. Do you ever find you get friction when you..." Get creative here. Have fun! This is less about having a canned response than it is to slow down in the moment and ask a deeper question. You'll not only be amazed by what you learn but how it sets the conditions for a deeper with another human being. #relationshipbuilding #executivecoaching #insights

I was a marriage counselor before transitioning into executive coaching. And one thing is very clear to me… Relationship skills are at the core of both. Over the years, I've sat across from countless couples as well as business leaders, And when it comes to relationships, There are basic interpersonal skills that are essential for success (both personally and professionally). So, here is a list of some of those traits that you NEED to master: 📌𝐄𝐟𝐟𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧. Transparent, open, and honest communication, along with clear expression of thoughts and feelings, promotes healthier relationships. 📌𝐀𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐋𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠. Being fully present and genuinely paying attention enables understanding and empathy, leading to stronger bonds and more effective problem-solving. 📌𝐄𝐦𝐩𝐚𝐭𝐡𝐲. The ability to understand and share the feelings of others allows for better emotional support and more compassionate decision-making. 📌𝐓𝐫𝐮𝐬𝐭. Building and maintaining trust promotes open communication, loyalty, and accountability, which are all important aspects of thriving relationships. 📌𝐀𝐝𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐚𝐛𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲. Being able to adjust and respond to changing situations or challenges effectively allows for better problem-solving and support in moving circumstances. 📌𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐭. Respect establishes a strong foundation for cooperation, collaboration, and mutual understanding. 📌𝐓𝐞𝐚𝐦𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐤. Working as a team fosters unity, shared responsibility, and a sense of partnership to solve problems and accomplish shared goals. 📌𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐟𝐥𝐢𝐜𝐭 𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐨𝐥𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧. Disagreements are inevitable. Healthy conflict resolution techniques, such as compromise and negotiation, can lead to improved relationships and better outcomes. 📌𝐌𝐮𝐭𝐮𝐚𝐥 𝐒𝐮𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐄𝐧𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐚𝐠𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭. Providing support and encouragement creates positive environments for growth and success. 📌𝐏𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐔𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠. These play vital roles in navigating through challenges, setbacks, and differences in opinions or perspectives, fostering a more harmonious environment. 𝘕𝘦𝘦𝘥 𝘐 𝘴𝘢𝘺 𝘮𝘰𝘳𝘦? By improving upon these vital relationship skills, an individual can contribute to the overall success of their relationships—whether at work or at home. #executivecoach #leadershipcoach #leadershipdevelopment #leadership #executivecoaching

Think growing a business or in social media is tough? Think again. Try growing relationships! Growing a business is no easy task. It takes sweat, perseverance, and a relentless drive. Same goes for making a name on social media. Mastering ever-changing algorithms, staying relevant, and creating engaging content – it's a battle. But as a banker, I can tell you that building relationships is the Ultimate challenge. Here are the 5 skills that I use to develop better relationships with my clients and prospects! 1. Listen: This should be your number one priority. Give others the opportunity to express themselves fully. You'll be surprised how much you learn and the rapport you build by simply listening. 2. Empathy: You're dealing with humans, not robots. We all have good days and bad days. Show understanding and empathy. It builds trust and strengthens the bond. 3. Consistency: Consistency is key. Regular check-ins, updates, or just a quick hello can really help in maintaining and building relationships. Stay consistent in your interactions. 4. Real Value: Try to add value to every interaction. Whether it is professional advice, a resource, or just your time - make sure others feel their interaction with you was valuable. 5. Authenticity: Be yourself! People can sense when you're not being genuine. Authenticity leads to trust and stronger relationships. Remember, relationship building isn't a one-time event. It’s a continuous process. And trust me, the benefits are worth the effort! How are you improving your relationship building skills? #neverbackdown #keeppushing #quarterend #relationships #motivation #choosehard #clients