“This time, it’s personal.”
“Once you enter the office, leave your personal issues at the door.”
“It’s just business.”
Business is business. Keep your personal life at home.
Isn’t this the common sense we’ve grown up learning?
Well, guess what? In today’s constantly evolving world, everything you’ve learned shifts and adapts to the pace of technological developments. Common sense isn’t so common anymore. Yesterday’s cutting edge is tomorrow’s outdated ways.
The way things, people, and systems relate and function together change. One area this can be seen is between business and dating. Before, they were seen as two realms on opposite ends of the spectrum.
These days, we understand business and dating build upon the same foundation – relationships.
The connection between relationships and dating is straightforward. You date someone you admire that you want to get to know better. Eventually you build trust between each other and build a life together.
Business follows a similar pattern with both customers and business partners. Contrary to popular belief, business is not just about money. Business in today’s age focuses on adding and providing value to the customer. Brands build relationships with customers through their online content and with the customer’s experience with the brand.
When working with business partners, collaborators, and influencers the same relationship rules apply. If you want to work with someone, you can’t just cold call them and say, “Hi, I like you. Let’s collaborate on a project that will benefit us both.”
In the dating world, that’s the equivalent of going up to someone you’re attracted to and saying, “Hello, nice to meet you. Please drop your pants.”
Not very appealing, is it?
