How do you know if you're good at building relationships?

1 Why relationship building matters

Relationship building is the process of creating and maintaining positive connections with others based on mutual respect, understanding, and value. It can help you achieve your goals, expand your network, enhance your reputation, and increase your happiness and well-being. Relationship building is not only important for your career, but also for your personal life, as it can strengthen your bonds with your family, friends, and community.

2 How to evaluate your relationship building skills

One way to evaluate your relationship building skills is to use a self-assessment tool, such as a questionnaire, a checklist, or a rating scale, that covers different aspects of relationship building, such as listening, feedback, conflict resolution, and cooperation. You can find many online resources that offer such tools, or you can create your own based on your specific needs and objectives. The key is to be honest and realistic with yourself, and to seek feedback from others who know you well.

3 How to improve your relationship building skills

Another way to evaluate your relationship building skills is to look for opportunities to practice and improve them in your daily interactions. You can start by setting small and specific goals, such as initiating a conversation with a new colleague, expressing appreciation to a team member, or asking for advice from a mentor. You can also seek feedback from others on how you can improve your relationship building skills, and be open to learning from their perspectives and experiences. Finally, you can reflect on your progress and celebrate your achievements.

4 How to measure your relationship building impact

A third way to evaluate your relationship building skills is to measure the impact of your relationships on your personal and professional outcomes. You can do this by tracking and analyzing indicators, such as the number and quality of your contacts, the frequency and depth of your interactions, the level of trust and satisfaction you have with your relationships, and the results and benefits you gain from your relationships. You can also ask others to share their feedback and testimonials on how your relationships have helped them.

5 How to maintain your relationship building skills

The last way to evaluate your relationship building skills is to maintain them over time. Relationship building is not a one-time event, but a continuous and dynamic process that requires constant attention and effort. You can maintain your relationship building skills by staying in touch with your contacts, following up on your commitments, showing interest and support, acknowledging and resolving issues, and adapting to changing needs and situations. You can also seek new and diverse relationships that can challenge and enrich you.

6 How to learn more about relationship building

If you want to learn more about relationship building, you can explore various sources of information and inspiration, such as books, podcasts, blogs, courses, webinars, and events, that cover different topics and strategies related to relationship building. You can also join and participate in communities and groups that share your interests and values, and that can offer you guidance and support. You can also find and connect with mentors and role models who can inspire and advise you on how to build better relationships.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?