Relationship or Task?

Let's put a question to ourselves. And by the way, we are looking not just from the angle of what is good, but first and foremost for what is best! Now when it comes to doing business, which of the two would you put first: relationship or task?

Ugly Duckling says:

Starting from task makes your relationships harder,
starting from relationship makes your tasks easier.

So unless you are an army sergeant brain washing new recruits, make your job about relationships first! In the marketplace, people are under no obligation to do as you wish. So don't expect them to, without a good enough reason.

But wait. When it comes to those in charge, it gets even worse. Anyone that commands respect as a decision maker will - without a doubt - resist pressure. Some even move into the exact opposite direction of any external force applied. This effect is known as the Law of the Opposing Repellants (see also Ugly Duckling and the Law of the Opposing Repellants). Does this sound in any way like a reaction you would have? If not, we can agree on one thing: so far your career isn't going anywhere.

So whatever your task, if it involves the cooperation of others, you better start working on relationships. If you are serious about business and committed to doing what it takes - i.e. all things considered - that is.