Building strong relationships is one of the most critical yet overlooked steps when starting a business. While many entrepreneurs focus on creating products, securing funding, or crafting business plans, relationships often determine the success or failure of a new venture. By establishing trust, credibility, and support networks before you launch, you set a solid foundation for your business to thrive.
Here are the top six strategies for building relationships before starting your own business.
Networking events and industry conferences provide excellent opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals, potential partners, and mentors. Even before launching your business, showing up in the right places allows you to learn from industry experts, build trust, and identify key contacts. Harvard Business Review highlights that entrepreneurs with strong professional networks are more likely to succeed (*HBR, 2019*).
Building relationships with future collaborators—such as vendors, suppliers, or complementary businesses—before starting your business can save time and resources. Reach out to key players in your industry and explore mutually beneficial opportunities. For example, co-hosting a webinar or guest posting on each other’s platforms can create exposure while solidifying partnerships that will be valuable once your business is live.
By prioritizing relationship-building before launching your business, you create a foundation of trust, support, and credibility that will serve you well throughout your entrepreneurial journey. Whether it’s through networking events, online engagement, or customer connections, strong relationships are the cornerstone of a successful and sustainable business.
