The Power of Relationships

Tis the time of year in the college football world where coaches with a string of less than stellar seasons start receiving pink slips in their stockings. While my Sooners haven't had the year we all had hoped for, I take solace in the fact that we have a great coach who has not only a proven track record, but also a fantastic relationship with his Athletic Director, President, players and fans.

Before I write on, let me state that (as of this moment) Stoops has resisted temptation to take the Notre Dame job. If he changes his mind, I'll be crushed, but the lessons here still apply.

I'd like to focus on relationships. At the end of the day, it's relationships that get teams and partnerships through challenges. Eventually a bad string of results will rightfully result in necessary change, but there is something to be said for those that don't overreact, make minor adjustments and stay the course with their team.

I'm lucky enough to work with two account managers who have done a phenomenal job with establishing a great relationship with one of our new clients. Fortunately, everything has gone exceedingly well in terms of planning, execution and results. But nobody (and no relationship) is perfect, and there will be times where we have to lean on the power of our relationships and the trust we've banked to help get us through a challenge.

Great relationships aren't just about your clients. Creative, media, digital...every separated discipline has it's own unique relationship needs. Good account people understand the nuances of building relationships with each group and give them focus.

I would also reiterate that "good relationship" isn't about being buddy-buddy with someone. A good relationship is based on personal trust, proven performance and the freedom to be honest.

If you are part of an account team, remember to assess the strength of your relationships with each key constituent group. Focus on repairing any cracks and it never hurts to reinforce areas that are already strong.

Most of all, don't take them for granted (like a few too many of my fellow Sooner fans do these days).