Managing relationships
The term 'Relationship Management' usually refers to external customers and suppliers, but managing relationships internally is a different thing all together. How we regard and behave towards each other on a day to day basis paints a very real picture indeed.
It's where influence and inspiration co-exist. It's where we develop others, recognise needs and identify barriers. It's where conflict appears, because like it or not, that's how us humans are wired. Finally, there is the team and how we build team spirit and encourage collaboration.
Managing relationships is an essential part of day-to-day business.
Daniel Goleman once said, 'The fundamental task of leaders is to prime good feeling in those they lead.'
When managing relationships (internally) it's always useful to ask ourselves two simple questions:
- How am I doing?
- What do I need to change?