Let’s cut to the chase!
If you want to grow your business in a way that actually feels good (and lasts), you need to get serious about one thing – building relationships.
I’m talking about the whole spectrum here. Your family, your partner, your mates, your clients, your suppliers, your prospects, your postie, even your dog walker.
Every connection matters.
And before you roll your eyes thinking “Yeah yeah, networking, got it” – this isn’t about handing out business cards at awkward events. This is about genuinely showing up for the people in your life and business.
Why? Because business growth isn’t just about strategy. It’s about people. And people do business with people they know, like and trust. It’s cliché because it’s true.
So let’s break it down.
Think about the last time someone referred a client to you.
It wasn’t because of your fancy logo. It was probably because they trusted you. They liked you. You’d helped them, or made an impression. That’s the power of relationships.
Now multiply that.
Imagine if you were top of mind for 20 people. Or 50. Not just because of what you do, but because of how you made them feel.
Relationships are also what help keep you sane.
Business can be lonely – especially if you’re building something on your own. Having people around you who get it makes all the difference.
And let’s not forget – when your personal relationships are strong, you’re more grounded. You make better decisions. You’re less likely to spiral into burnout mode. Win-win.
The best part? Building relationships isn’t complicated. In fact, it’s the most natural thing in the world.
Here’s how to start:
I know, revolutionary. But really – be kind, follow up, say thank you, show up when you say you will. Don’t ghost people. Respond to messages. Be supportive, even if there’s nothing in it for you right now.
People remember how you made them feel, not how slick your pitch was.
You don’t have to send long essays. A quick check-in message, a voice note, tagging someone in a post you thought they’d love – that’s it. Little touches go a long way.
You’ll be surprised how often that “just checking in” leads to an opportunity.
Before you ask for the sale, the testimonial, the referral – ask what they need. Offer something useful. Make an introduction. Share something relevant. Be the person who adds value without keeping score.
People are way more inclined to help you when you’ve already helped them.
Some of the strongest business relationships start from talking about dogs, holidays or the horror of the school run. Be yourself. Let people see the human behind the brand. It builds trust, and it makes life a lot more enjoyable.
This one’s huge. If you’re meeting a client, a supplier, or even a mate for coffee, show up prepared and on time. No faffing, no last-minute cancellations. Being respectful builds credibility – and makes people want to work with you again.
Let’s flip the script here.
Building relationships isn’t some fluffy, feel-good side quest. It’s a full-on growth strategy.
A strong network can open doors, shorten your sales cycle, give you real-time advice, save you money, and most importantly – keep your business feeling aligned and balanced.
You don’t need to chase every marketing hack. If you focus on nurturing the people already around you, and consistently expanding your circle in an intentional, honest way, your business will grow. And you’ll feel better doing it.
So here’s your nudge.
Make the call. Send the message. Book the catch-up. Reach out to the old contact. Say thank you to the customer. Hug your partner. Chat to the barista. Smile at the person behind the till.
Every small connection adds up.
And if you’re ever feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure where to go next in business – don’t go it alone. Come chat with someone. Chances are, the next big shift you need will come from a conversation, not a spreadsheet.
Here’s to building businesses that feel good, grow strong, and are rooted in real connection. You in?
Want to be part of a community that values people over profit (without losing sight of growth)?
That’s exactly what we do at The Business Wellbeing Club.
