I’ve always been outgoing—so much so that my family and friends expect me to strike up conversations with strangers in public. If someone starts chatting, I can’t help but continue it. Over time, I’ve learned to see this not as an odd habit, but as a skill. And honestly, it’s helped me in more ways than I can count—especially in business. Here’s why I believe relationships matter.
- It’s a small world
The number of times I’ve found common ground with someone I just met is surprising—and delightful. Former college volleyball players, fellow Ohioans, people in fascinating industries—the list goes on. Discovering shared connections makes conversations memorable and fun. And when work naturally enters the mix, it feels less like a standard business chat and more like catching up with an old friend.
- You build trust
The more you know about someone, and the more they’re willing to share, the easier it is to communicate with them. Trust accelerates everything. You can skip the unnecessary “fluff” and dive straight into what needs to get done. Of course, I don’t mind small talk, but there’s something powerful about being able to send a quick message and know it’ll be received with understanding and trust.
- Friendships happen
One of the best surprises in my career has been the friendships that grew out of workplace connections. At my first job after college, I was lucky enough to work with peers my age, living nearby in the city. We didn’t just work together at the office—we chose to spend time together outside of it. Many of those colleagues are still some of my closest friends today. Work friendships may not always extend beyond the office, but when they do, they can be deeply rewarding.
So here’s my advice: strike up that conversation. Lean in when someone else does the same. Business isn’t always fun and games, but it becomes a lot more enjoyable—and a lot more meaningful—when relationships are at the center of it.
