The Partner Channel Magazine Fall 2016

LEADERSHIP
365 DEGREE
Relationships
story by LINDA YATES
illustration by MATT MASTRUD
Why is it that there are some individuals that you connect with and others who take a
little bit of time? This question fascinates me. Those individuals whom I connect with
and enjoy spending time with contain the same energy. In fact, as we connect, there is
an “energy transference” that occurs. What is “energy transference?” Energy transference
is when you feel positive, synergistic communication occurring between you and another.
In contrast, have you ever met those folks that suck the life right out of you? What do you do to change your
perception of the relationship?
Some of our deepest relationships sometimes start off rocky, or we misjudge the individual. One of my dear friends
growing up had the personality of someone who was aloof and unapproachable. As time went on and we had reason
to interact, I realized what an amazing woman she was and currently is. The lesson to each of us is to be careful not
to judge. If you become a perceiver instead of a judger, you will experience more happiness.
Deep relationships, like a flower, need nurturing. When tension occurs with my spouse or children, it is due to a
lack of quality time or connection.
In business relationships there is another dynamic. If you are approachable in business, the quality of your relationship
will increase. You get to perceive what your different business relationships bring to your life. You may have guarded
relationships with your employees or your boss. Or the opposite: You may have a warm and open relationship. The
beauty with life is the power within each of us to define exactly what it is we want. You will receive what you focus on.
A personal experience comes to mind as it relates to business. Early in my career, I worked with a gentleman who
was the president and owner of a small business. He was outgoing and funny. I tended to be a little bit shy, but as time
went on, my personality opened up. I was new to the workforce, and several of the things I was doing for this owner
were new territory for me. He saw in me the ability to perform tasks I was uncertain about. He trusted me to learn
and grow and do the best I could. About a year or so into the position, he had to undergo emergency back surgery. I
assisted him in running the business from his bedside. This experience brought our families close. To this day when I
see him and we meet someone he knows, he introduces me as the person he credits with saving his business. To me he
is a great example of nurturing those who report to you and showing appreciation for a job well done.
One of my personal goals is to connect with as many individuals on Mother Earth as possible. I love people! I
love the diversity that makes up each of us. It is so fulfilling for me to see others realize their potential and for them
to experience success.
Here are three tips to strengthen your customer relationships:
» Focus on the positive traits of the individual.
» Keep your purpose in mind.
» Call them by name.
When you have great relationships in your business, life flows better. When communication gets off track,
pause. Step back, develop your plan, and then address what is wrong and brainstorm together how to fix it. Do
what Stephen Covey suggests: “Seek first to understand, then to be understood.” As you do so, all your relationships
will deepen and bring prosperity to your life and business.
Linda Yates, “The Image Energizer”, is a highly sought international keynote speaker, executive coach, corporate trainer,
and author. Linda has produced more than 250 educational seminars on helping individuals and businesses uncover,
realize, and accomplish their goals. She can be reached at Linda@lhyatesconsulting.com.
34 FALL 2016 | THEPARTNERCHANNEL.COM