There are many things I took away from reading the book The Relationship Economy by John R. DiJulius. This book signified the importance of building relationships in customer service and the professional realm. I gained a lot from this book and agree with a lot of the topics discussed. One concept discussed in this book was how relationships can increase loyalty not only for the customer, but for the employees working for a brand. I have prior experience working on both ends of the spectrum where I had great community and culture within a brand, and then also a brand where there was bad community and culture. The difference in my quality of work and overall morale working for a company with good community is significantly higher than without. Being fulfilled socially in a job has more benefits than people realize. These employees are better able to interact with customers and represent the company well.
One thing that I learned is that in a world where technology is slowly replacing human connection, emotion and relationships are an asset. Companies will start to value a person who can foster community between a customer and the brand over artificial intelligence taking over. In an interview it is important to highlight communication skills and connect with the person rather than just highlighting job skills. Making connections with other people is something that people crave whether they are aware of it or not. Subconsciously we all want human connection and want community with the people around us.
This book emphasizes this and places much importance over relationships. The whole idea behind the relationship economy is that relationships are the network of worth. “In a Relationship Economy the primary currency is the connections and trust among customers, employees, and vendors that create significantly more value in what we sell” (Page 11). Building connections with customers is becoming the selling point for brands, making relationship-building a necessary skill for success. Forming a bond with a customer can bring them back time and time again, and encourage them to tell others about the company. This is the same for employees, who become ambassadors for a brand if the internal culture and communication is good.
Another concept discussed is the idea that those who can not build relationships are the illiterate people of this day. Companies do not want to hire someone who is unable to form connections, do not work well with groups, refuse to interact, etc. These are all skills that are necessary for the success in a company.
Overall this book convicted me to keep pursuing connection. It made me realize the importance of relationships and the ways in which I can put myself out there to keep forming meaningful connections, even in a professional setting. I have always had a passion for relationships and sometimes I forget that amazing connections can come from the work place. It makes me want to seek connections more in a professional setting rather than just recreational settings. In 1 John 4:7 it talks about how love is of God, and we must love one another. I believe striving towards meaningful relationships where we build each other up is the direct result of loving others, and something that the Lord loves to see.
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