If you want to do well in this world, you must learn to build relationships. Strengthening the relationships you have with your customers, colleagues, and so-called competition can allow you to reap benefits beyond measure.
Competition? What Competition?
Two businesses in the same line of work could be said to be in competition with one another. Indeed, there are some businesses that advertise fiercely against those in the same field. I question the notion, however, that those who make their money as we do are ALWAYS competition.
Allow me to give you an example. In the blogging world, I know several writers that might be said to be in direct competition with The Christian Dollar. But is this really the case? Not at all! Truly, I’ve found the “competition” to be friends and brothers in Christ. They have welcomed The Christian Dollar with open arms, and have encouraged my progress every step of the way (you know who you are). Linking to each other is mutually beneficial. Writing on each other’s blogs is mutually beneficial. If they do better, I do better. If I do better, they do better. This mutually beneficial relationship is only built through how we’ve intertwined our concepts, writings, and websites.
Can this work in the real world? Would the corporate giants benefit from the relationships they build? I’m no economic expert, but it would sure be an interesting study.
Your Small Business Experiment
So here’s the challenge: If you own a small business, rethink the relationships you have with similar companies and attempt to work with them! Create a “network” of businesses in your field. The referrals you’ll receive and give will prove beneficial with time. Who knows? The relationships you build just might launch your business where it needs to be.
Spend Time with Everyone
If you’re having trouble getting started, spend more time talking with people. You never know what connections you’ll make! A simple conversation can change the direction of your life forever. Find out what your “competition” is doing right, and converse with them about what works for you! Sure, it’s a radical idea, but if your business is stagnant, can it hurt to give it a shot?
Every business is a “people” business. You’re not in the business to sell or make trinkets. You’re not in the business to provide a service to people. Those things ONLY happen as a RESULT of the relationships you build. Spread your wings and build more relationships, won’t you?
! John wrote two articles for the book: "Budgeting for Groceries" and "How Grocery Stores Work."
