I genuinely believe that showing up, starting early, collaborating often and continually seeking knowledge are essential foundations for career success. Once you’ve integrated these four basic habits into your work, then you can begin to build on them with what I call FOUR INTERMEDIATE RULES. Rule 5: BUILD RELATIONSHIPS, NOT TRANSACTIONS. Ask any senior leader today about a quality that defines success, and they'll likely highlight emotional intelligence or emotional quotient (EQ). If you're keen on exploring this topic further, consider reading the foundational book by Daniel Goleman titled "Emotional Intelligence: Why It Can Matter More Than IQ," or for a more recent perspective, "Emotional Intelligence 2.0" by Dr. Travis Bradberry and Dr. Jean Greaves. Both are excellent resources on understanding and harnessing EQ. In the business world, you can operate in one of two ways: either you execute individual transactions on a case-by-case basis, or you focus on building long-term relationships. I assure you the latter approach, prioritizing relationships, will invariably prove more successful in the long run. Even if a singular transaction appears more lucrative, think of the bigger picture. This might even involve stepping back and allowing others to take credit, not in a way that lets them overshadow you, but in a way that builds trust and establishes you as a reliable ally…because that’s where you’ll find success. This approach also forces you to be sincere and genuine with other people, which is not only important in business, it’s key to living a truly rewarding life. No one in their final moments on earth cherishes the deals they sealed or projects they completed. Relationships can last longer than any job, so I recommend always approaching tasks with the mindset of fostering strong, long-term personal connections.
Spot on Shadman! I've long since retired from Verizon as you know but I can speak first hand that the relationships I was blessed to acquire there far outlasted any transaction or project. Years later I am still able to connect with my VZ network on a daily basis. This journey of rules is fascinating. Thank you for sharing.
I’m going to keep my streak going of commenting on all of Shadman Zafar ‘s rules. Completely agree that focusing on IQ only can lead to failure. EQ is just as important and diverse teams even more important. Cue shameless link to my own post: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/brian-c-dolan_we-only-hire-the-smartest-people-that-may-activity-7186780276440604672-Ht_J?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_ios
Shadman. Each of these are bril. You keep us hanging for the next. Thank you my friend. As we say in Norwegian. ekte. This is real true ekte shadman.
Shadman Zafar I love these Rules and I look forward to your postings! In addition to IQ and EQ per your note above, one needs XQ for Execution Excellence (or results orientation) to be an effective Leader. What are your thoughts?
Shadman, you have always been a relationship-builder, engaging in conversations with the people working with you. It is one of the main reasons I enjoy working with you!
Nicely articulated and so very true!
Well said Shadman Zafar - I absolutely agree!
“Rule 5: BUILD RELATIONSHIPS, NOT TRANSACTIONS….” I spent most of my career in the “…Transactions…” space moving from launching/planning/executing/implementing one successful project to another with little to no investments in “…Build Relationships…” Learned that lesson the hard way during the latter part of my career…with said issue findings reinforced afterwards when I read “Immotional Intelligence 2.0…” a recommendation from a well-read, well-respected colleague, trusted-advisor and friend (Kumar Kummamuru ) currently at Citi… Thank you for your post!
Shadman Zafar's onto something here. Building relationships is key, no doubt. But let's not forget—leadership is a balancing act. We need to nurture connections, sure, but also drive results and make those tough calls when needed. It's about using our EQ smartly to spark innovation, teamwork, and big goals. That's where the real magic happens.