Reputation + Network = Relationship Capital

Relationship Capital represents the quality of your behaviors, traits and interactions over a period of time. It is a direct reflection of your character as experienced by those who know you and can testify to your qualities. Relationship Capital is to be merited as that which is portable and defining, transmitting the value of your worth in the marketplace.

Relationship Capital is measured by the people you are connected to (your network) and your reputation. So Your Network + Your Reputation = Your Relationship Capital. How you manage the variables within this equation will determine the value of the relationships.

I am sharing this information as an introduction to this term. It is a new term to me, but the words are powerful. Here are a few things to keep in mind when developing Relationship Capital in the midst of employment:

1. Foster Trust and Integrity

2. Treat People with Respect

3. Keep Your Word

4. Be Present – Live in the Moment

5. Have an Attitude of Gratitude

6. Nurture Your Relationships

Relationships can be your greatest strength or your greatest weakness. It all depends on how much you invest in your relationships. The more value you place on relationships, the higher the capital. In the world we live in today, who you know, who you are connected to matters. How you handle those relationships matter too. Take time to nurture your relationships, it will increase your reputation. Relationship Capital will open doors or it will close doors. Either way, you need to have a strong reputation and a strong network to maintain the Relationship Capital you will need.

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