The Power of Relationships: Why Hard Work Is Not Enough for Success
This interview clip featuring Vice-Chair and MD at Morgan Stanley, Carla Harris, which highlights the power of relationships is so powerful that I want everyone to watch and share it.
I have reiterated this message during any private consultations or seminar sessions that I facilitate on personal branding and networking. In the PR industry, relationships are key and can make or break a brand or even an individual's career journeys. I encourage clients and contacts to understand that the same principles which apply to business brands can often apply to individual personal brands, not just entrepreneurs but professionals too.
For too long we have worked under the narrative that hard work is enough, particularly as Carla mentions, within Black communities. The idea that hard work will get us to where we want to get to is not entirely true and we can see that when we look at who often holds the keys to power in society and we look at structures like "The Old Boys's Network". It is undeniable that hard work leads us to the the standard doors of opportunity but the rules of the game of life are not simply based on how many qualifications we have or (unfortunately) how hard working we are, the power of relationships reminds of this time and time again. Hard work can get us to the door but it won't always open up the door or even get us through that door. We need to build and maintain the right relationships - recognise who you are, identify what you want and use who you really are to build relationships that will get you to where you want to go in life.
By building the right relationships, for the right reasons and by maintaining authentic, intentional and purposeful communication within those relationships you can go so much further. The energy flow within those relationships should be genuine; give as much as you receive, don't become a taker or user, build trust and a clearly defined reputation. Build relationships that add value to all involved, relationships that enrich spaces not as a means to stroke egos stand the test of time.
By all means continue to work hard but remember that relationships will work just as hard to get you to where you want to get to. Watch Carla Harris' full interview here.
I help clients see the value of building relationships in order to solidify their personal brands. If you want to work with me get in touch and let’s make breakthroughs happen in your business or professional life.
The Personal Brand 5 Week programme is ideal for business owners, entrepreneurs or professionals who are intentional about raising their personal brand visibility and business credibility.
Over the course of 5 dedicated remote sessions we will undertake a deep dive into the practical steps you need to take to improve your personal brand identity and what actions you will need to take in order to achieve them.
This 5 week programme is for you if:
You have been working hard in your sector for many years but do not get the recognition that you feel like you deserve
You are often overlooked for exciting new opportunities in your sector
You are ready for a breakthrough as a leader in your sector
You want to widen your circle of influence beyond the people who currently know you
You are frustrated with the way your online footprint represents you
You do not feel confident that the way you present yourself to the wider community is in alignment with your core goals
You want to play bigger and be more intentional with your visibility.
Clients who have booked this session have left with renewed confidence in their goals and aims; established clarity as it pertains to how they position themselves in their industries and have attracted exciting opportunities which have led to career and business growth. Read what past clients have to say about the personal brand coaching sessions here.
What is included:
Personal branding questionnaire & personal brand mini audit
5 x 60 minute sessions
Working document and strategy framework with an optional 90 day plan sent to client upon request only.
Each week will cover the following:
Week 1: The Power of a Personal brand - how having a strong personal brand can open up new opportunities in your business or career journey.
Identifying your values & Knowing your purpose - Understanding what your brand is and how you can maintain your integrity and authenticity.
Week 2: Using PR to enhance your profile - Using public relations strategies to enhance your public profile.
Week 3: Social Media strategy - How to use social media platforms to raise your visibility. We will undertake a social media audit and unpack which platforms work for you and why.
Week 4: Harnessing your voice - Knowing and understanding what your message is, who your audience is and how to reach them effectively.
Week 5: Measuring Success- Assessing Long term goals and celebrating success.
Due to the holistic nature of our conversations the subjects may change and adapt in the best interests of the client.
Clients who prefer face to face sessions will meet at a location in the Royal Docks/Custom House area of East London.