Each individual requires constant connection and interaction with other people in various aspects, and from all walks of life. There are those we meet who just pass us by; there are also those who choose to stay and create a bond that does not leave us behind. On a personal aspect, we maintain a special relationship with our family members and friends. We engage in romantic relationships with those who offer us a special kind of love.

On the professional side, we also create relationships with people at work. For a career to blossom, a good affiliation with those we work with must be maintained. No feeling of discomfort or hatred builds up while working because we know that we are in amicable relationships with our associates.

Relationship-building requires understanding how to establish it and how to keep it healthy. Understanding the characteristics of a relationship gives us an idea of how to maintain a healthy connection with others. The focus of this article is on the aspects of building relationships in business or in the professional aspect of our lives.

What Characterizes a Business Relationship?

What are the features of a relationship in business? Empathy is an important rule in relationship building. It is the ability to put oneself in the shoes or position of others and understand their feeling from their point of view. Some people possess the skill of empathy without the need to acquire it. But for others, it may be learned, practiced, and acquired. The manifestation of empathy has to be both verbal and visible. For example, when a colleague is recognized for a job well done, show empathy by giving a complimentary message accompanied with a pat on the back.

Courtesy is essential in a business relationship. This value can be manifested in many forms. Use courtesy in communicating by sounding pleasant and nice with your voice when talking to someone and use positive body language.

Another feature in relationship-building in business is inquiry or asking questions. Especially in a conversation, asking open-ended questions will keep the interaction flowing. Knowing how to initiate a conversation and keep it flowing is a good start to establishing new relationships.

Interest makes another person feel appreciated in a relationship. For relationships to grow, similarities between the individuals have to be drawn and used as a tool for doing things together which, in turn, strengthens the bond.

Also, when communicating with work colleagues, show signs of interest in your words and do not forget to make the other person feel important and listened to. Lastly, respect is a fundamental aspect of relationships. Respect means understanding the other person’s attitudes, values, views, and beliefs. Respect each other’s individuality and differences.

Communication Makes Business Relationships Thrive

Here is another very important aspect in a relationship, whether personal or professional. How can you form a relationship without communicating at all? This is close to impossible especially in a work setting. No result is generated if colleagues work individually when the project needs collaboration of ideas and talents. Always bear in mind though, that communication is not all words.

Actions communicate more than the words we say. So, enhance both your verbal and nonverbal communication skills to be a better communicator. Being able to readily express yourself makes its easy for you to connect with the people you work with.

Sharing Builds Strong Relationships

The value of sharing strengthens relationships with business associates. Do not be too selfish of your ideas and abilities. If you belong to a team or a department, your talents will contribute and will be of great help for the success of project plans and programs. Sharing what you can share will create admiration from your colleagues. This will make them trust and respect you even more. And since relationships are give-and-take, whatever you shared will be paid back through good relationships.

In business, producing and keeping good relationships with your associates is just like earning great profit. The workplace must be an ideal place for building professional relationships that can help you grow and mature in the long run. These aspects of relationship-building must be understood and applied with a goal of keeping well-built and healthy connections.