How to Build Sustainable Relationships in Business

While the world of business continues to change and evolve, one thing remains the same. Success depends greatly on relationships. No matter your industry or role, you can’t achieve your goals without building relationships. Cathy Feil O’Donnell, a long-time media sales account executive, offered her perspective on how people are doing business today.

O’Donnell is a long-time colleague and friend of co-host Crumpton. She met him years ago while in radio sales, and they had an immediate connection. It started with a cold call. “When I started in radio sales, I was given a phone book and told to go at it. I just didn’t have any fear. I love meeting people and have always been passionate about wanting to help someone,” she recalled.

The sentiment that sales and business, in general, is about wanting to help others succeed is shared by the hosts as well. Empowering others and making customers the hero is the hallmark of any great sales leader. O’Donnell said, “It’s important to support and listen to customers, be humble, and help them brand their business, so they get the ROI they deserve.”

O’Donnell believes in being kind and caring, no matter if she’s talking to a prospective customer or her friends at the grocery store. “Connecting is what it’s all about,” she commented.

In these times, where a pandemic is impacting business health as well as the physical and emotional well-being of so many, O’Donnell is sensitive to the fact that many can’t afford to advertise right now. That doesn’t stop her from building the relationship and wanting to be a “light” for all those she encounters. This demeanor serves her well as a person and a successful businesswoman.

Make sure to follow along for more episodes of Straight Outta Crumpton!