Profiles In Leadership - Taking The Right Steps

Chapter 3: Relationships are Everything – Building Trust and Influence

L eadership is inherently relational. Let me say that again: Leadership is relational. Regardless of how talented or knowledgeable you are, your success in leadership hinges on your ability to connect with others, build trust, and foster influence. Cultivating meaningful relationships within an organization is not merely a “nice-to-have” skill—it’s a cornerstone of sustainable leadership. This chapter will explore why relational leadership matters, how trust and influence are built, and why shortcuts in relational leadership can undermine your ability to lead effectively.

Why Relationships Matter in Leadership

At its core, leadership centers on people. Whether you’re leading a small team or an entire organization, your ability to achieve goals relies on those you lead. Relationships create the bridge that connects your vision and values to the actions and outcomes you desire. I’ve embraced a powerful quote from President Teddy Roosevelt, which states, “People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care.”

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