Building Relationship Deposits
4 minute read
In the professional world, relationships are as crucial as skills and experience. One concept that has profoundly influenced my approach to building and maintaining professional relationships is the idea of "relationship deposits." I first encountered this concept early in my career, and it’s a principle I strive to practice daily.
Simply put, relationship deposits involve consistently investing in your relationships so that, when you need to make a withdrawal—whether to give tough feedback or deliver disappointing news—you have built enough trust and goodwill to navigate these situations effectively. Here’s how to make and manage these deposits to ensure your relationships are strong, resilient, and mutually supportive.
How to Make Relationship Deposits
Show Genuine Interest
One of the simplest yet most impactful ways to make deposits is by showing a genuine interest in others. Check in regularly to ask about their weekend, their family or how their vacations went. Remember details or personal milestones that they share with you and ask about them. The more you can demonstrate your interest in the person beyond the professional, the stronger your connection will be.
Actively Listen and Implement Feedback
Listening is a powerful form of deposit. When someone provides feedback, whether it’s about a project or a personal concern, listen actively and show that you value their input. Implement their suggestions when feasible, as this demonstrates respect and a willingness to grow together.
Offer Support
Support can be emotional, practical, or professional. Be there for your colleagues or contacts during challenging times. Offering support, whether it’s assisting with a work-related issue or being understanding during personal hardships, strengthens your relationship and builds goodwill.
Be Consistent and Reliable
Consistency is key in making relationship deposits. Regularly engage with people, follow through on your commitments, and maintain a steady presence. This reliability fosters trust and confidence in your relationships.
The Importance of Relationship Deposits
Enhances Trust and Integrity
When you make consistent deposits into your relationships, you build a foundation of trust and integrity. This trust is crucial when you need to make withdrawals. For example, if you have to deliver constructive feedback or inform someone they won’t receive a desired raise, having a strong relationship bank ensures that these conversations are taken in stride and are perceived as coming from a place of care and concern.
Facilitates Difficult Conversations
A well-funded relationship bank makes difficult conversations easier. When you’ve built enough trust through regular deposits, people are more likely to understand that your feedback or decisions are meant to be constructive and are in their best interest. They’ll be more receptive to working together on solutions, knowing that your intentions are positive.
Strengthens Professional Networks
Strong relationships are the backbone of a robust professional network. By consistently making deposits, you create a network of supportive colleagues, mentors, and contacts who are more likely to assist you when needed. This network can be invaluable for career growth, opportunities, and support.
Building and maintaining a healthy relationship bank through consistent deposits is essential for fostering strong, resilient connections. By showing genuine interest, actively listening, offering support, and being reliable, you create a solid foundation of trust and goodwill.
This investment pays off when you need to make withdrawals, such as delivering tough feedback or communicating difficult news. Relationships built on a robust foundation are not only more likely to endure but also thrive, enabling you to navigate challenges together and work towards solutions collaboratively.
Remember, the key to a successful relationship is not just in making occasional big gestures, but in the small, everyday actions that demonstrate care, respect, and commitment. So start making those deposits today—you’ll be building a reservoir of goodwill that will serve you well in both smooth and challenging times.
