Leadership Networking: Relate, Collaborate, and Get Things Done

Effective relationships allow leaders to accomplish more than they can alone. So what can you do to build and improve relationships at work? Here are ten behaviors that will make a difference.

1. Choose the positive. Good relationships are based on handling problems in a positive way. Avoid creating adversarial relationships or alienating others.
   
   
2. Be a diplomat. Negotiating, giving feedback, sharing news and making decisions all require good timing and common sense. Be mindful of the whole picture and make your points at the most appropriate time.
   
   
3. Find common ground. Shared goals, similar challenges or areas of agreement are great starting points for accomplishing work and building relationships. Work to find common ground when dealing with conflict or complexity.
   
   
4. Keep cool. Can you handle an unfair attack from peers with poise? Are you steady when tensions are high? Keep your cool and avoid being defensive or counter-attacking.
   
   
5. Avoid isolation. Don't limit your associations and relationships. Learn to relate to all kinds of individuals tactfully, from shop floor to top executives. Find ways to talk with staff members who are older or more experienced than you, as well as those who are younger.
   
   
6. Expand your view. Strive to understand others' perspectives and needs.
   
   
7. Listen. Active listening is essential. Listen carefully to different peoples' needs at all levels in the organization - both when things are going well and when they are not.
   
   
8. Share information. Communicate well and communicate often. Keep people informed of future changes that may impact them.
   
   
9. Involve others. Encourage direct reports to share ideas and information. Involve others in the beginning stages of an initiative or decision. Work to gain commitment of others before implementing changes. Your relationships will improve when people are motivated to work together.
   
   
10. Be realistic. Recognize that every decision has conflicting interests and constituencies. Good relationships won't prevent conflict or disagreement. However, with strong relationships, you can work through challenges from a platform of cooperation, trust and respect.