If you haven’t yet built powerful relationships at work — the type that can be trusted both to endure and to deliver results when needed — it’s time to start. Research shows that your ability to empathize with, connect with, and influence others is a pivotal skill for success. But time and again in my work with leaders across industries and geographies, I’ve seen people struggle with how to build those relationships.
3 Traits of a Strong Professional Relationship
A guide for assessing your work relationships.
August 08, 2019
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Summary.
Positive work relationships have three traits in common: Colleagues understand what the relevance of their relationship is; they understand whether, and why, they are transactional or transformative; and they are committed to maintaining the relationship even when they are in conflict. Thinking about these three traits can help you assess your key relationships and identify opportunities to engage and connect in ways that deliver results when needed. If you’ve realized that some of your professional relationships need work, identify the five relationships that have the most influence on your success, and conduct a quick audit of each of the three traits.
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New!
HBR Learning
HBR Learning
Leading People Course
Accelerate your career with Harvard ManageMentor®. HBR Learning’s online leadership training helps you hone your skills with courses like Leading People. Earn badges to share on LinkedIn and your resume. Access more than 40 courses trusted by Fortune 500 companies.
What you need to know about being in charge.