How to forge true business relationships

As I look back at my career in business and reflect about my life, I have realized a few things I wish I knew when I was 25. But don’t we all? The business world is full of many different types of people. Some actually know what they are doing, some have not a clue in the world, and some have fooled us into thinking they know what is going on.

Either way, things catch up, and the real winners are the hard workers who cultivate relationships and friendships based on true values, sincerity and honesty. Growing up in the business world takes more than just doing your job, regardless of your occupation or what position in society you hold.

So the following are my words of wisdom to anyone who wants to succeed in the game of life. Get on boards: These are not just 2x4s you will stand on, but legitimate boards of directors of companies or nonprofit organizations. Last year alone, I was on six different boards, including my local Chamber of Commerce.

The March of Dimes and the Better Business Bureau.I have been involved in my community since I was in my late 20s. Besides being personally gratifying and a way of giving back, being on boards also provides you with friendships that can last a lifetime.

Of course, then there’s my friend David, whom I have known for over 20 years. When I tell him, “Hey, get on a board or two; it is time for you to give back,” he always responds with, “I have not taken enough yet!” But trust me, the relationships you make are invaluable, and the personal growth you obtain from the people you surround yourself with is immeasurable.

Develop friendships: Surround yourself with the right friends, people whom excite you or stimulate you mentally. As our parents told us when we were kids, the people you associate with are who you become. Nothing changes when it comes to common sense.

Seek great business relationships: Some people call these mentors; I call them people whom we can learn from ... always! If you work in a large corporation or a bureaucratic organization, get to know a real “higher up.” Remember bosses need to surround themselves with good people, or how could they ever get the job done? They want to look good also, and it’s much easier to accomplish a task or a goal with a good team.

Be yourself: If you go through life sincerely, so that people always know where you are coming from, you will have better personal and business relationships. This is not earth-shattering news. Just go through life being real, not some big shot, and most important, have fun. People like to be around sincere, fun people.

Try to be good at only one or two things: In the world of commerce, we all love to be around an expert. So quit trying to be all things to all people. Be good. No let me take that back. Be the best at only one or two things. Remember, my cardiologist is not also a podiatrist!