I’ve been told that one of my best traits is that I always see the good in people. I’m that person who will put a positive spin on your negative self-talk because I can see your potential. However, this trait has also been seen as a liability, which can make me an easy target. This duality is a significant contributor to my feelings of self-doubt and Imposter Syndrome, as it raises the question: How can someone like me lead a team of people?
A recent Strengths Assessment revealed that my biggest domain strength is in Relationship Building. Initially, I was a bit disheartened, as Relationship Building doesn’t sound as exciting as the other domains of Strategic Thinking, Influencing or Executing. However, upon further reflection, I realised that there is ingenuity in connecting people and building strong relationships, so crucial for team cohesion. There’s an even higher level of brilliance in connecting people so that they willingly hold themselves together as a team.
Learning 3: The magic is in nurturing your relationships. Be a magician!
Looking back at my journey, one thing remains clear – I got through it all only because I had the right support. The people who stuck by me, did so because I had invested time into them before I needed them. Because my actions and words conveyed that I wanted more for them, not just from them. So when things went pear-shaped for me, they willingly stepped in to help.
The same philosophy applies to business. Nurturing relationships with your key stakeholders – your team, your clients, your suppliers – pays back tenfold. Your team will work through the tough times because they know you have looked after them. Clients stick by you and refer you to others because they trust you. Suppliers go out of their way to help you meet urgent deadlines because they enjoy working with you.
Investing time in your relationships is an investment in a greater you. Your key stakeholders keep the cogs of your business turning, especially when it matters most.
Don’t get me wrong, you can absolutely get through life or run a business on your own. But it’s so much easier on your mental health and more enjoyable when you bring your people along for the ride. Don’t forget to enjoy the magic along the way!