Building Relationships as the Diplomat of your Business

Strong businesses are built on solid business relationships.  Business leaders often need to step into the shoes of a diplomat, developing and managing complex relationships with many diverse groups.  By definition a diplomat is someone who can be sensitive in dealing with others and who can achieve peaceful resolutions or facilitate discussion.  Entrepreneurs can draw from the diplomatic tool box and become more effective by;

1. Honesty -- Truth builds a solid reputation and is the key to establishing long-term  relationships that you can rely on in a crunch
2. Research -- learn as much about a contacts business & customs as possible, before you try to connect with them.  Learn what they value, business behaviors, their long term interests, goals and needs are
3. Listening -- part of the job is saying what you want or need, however the biggest part is listening.  Listening makes the other party feel valued and helps you to identify their needs.
4. Know your values -- choose solutions that fit your values, even if they’re not the easiest or cheapest options.  The more you act on consistent values, the stronger your business will be in the long run and the more your partners, affiliates and customers will trust you