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  Donald Trump has been sworn in for the second term as President of the United States of America. You know that already, so that’s not what I want to share with you in this post. What I want to share is something important which I have noticed in Trump’s life. If you have listened to him long enough then you’ll probably have heard him mention some names and add, “I know him, he’s a great guy. He’s my friend.”
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I first noticed that in 2016 when he ran for office against Hillary Clinton and it struck me then. And in the build-up to the 2024 elections when he ran against Kamla Harris, it struck me again as I saw Elon Musk working with him to get him elected. I daresay that his successes in the 2016 and 2024 elections were in addition to all other factors due to his friends. The fact is this, in today’s world, who you know can be just as important as what you know. Whether it’s getting ahead in your career, starting a business, or even maintaining healthy friendships, strong relationships open doors to opportunities. But the challenge always is that building genuine relationships would take a lot from you. If you are one who struggles with networking, maintaining friendships, or even dealing with family relationships, you can make up your mind to be intentional about building better relationships that will enrich your life this year. In this post, I will share practical ways to improve your relationship-building skills and foster stronger connections in both professional and personal relationships.

1. Be Intentional About Building Relationships

One mistake many people make is thinking relationships just happen. They don’t. You have to be intentional about building and maintaining relationships. Ask yourself the following questions:
  • Who do I need in my life for growth?
  • What kind of friendships or business relationships do I want?
Once you get the answers to these questions, start reaching out to them, checking in, and being present.
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2. Give Value First

Nobody likes a one-sided relationship. If you want to build strong connections, be seen as a person of value. Focus on giving value before expecting anything in return. You do this in so many ways including offering help, sharing useful information with others, or simply being a supportive friend. The more you give, the more valuable people perceive you to be and the stronger your relationships become.

3. Use Social Media for Networking

In the digital world we live in today, social media is one of the most powerful tools for relationship-building. Platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter (X), and even Instagram can help you connect with professionals, mentors, and like-minded individuals. Being active on these platforms can help you attract valuable connections. So, use these platforms.

4. Show Genuine Interest in People

There’s a saying that people don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care. People can tell when you’re only around them for personal gain. To build lasting professional and personal relationships, show real interest in others. Something as simple as remembering someone’s birthday or sending a congratulatory message when they achieve something can strengthen your bond.

5. Be Reliable and Trustworthy

Trust is one of the biggest factors in building strong relationships. If people can’t count on you, they won’t keep you in their circle. When you make a promise, follow through on them and be someone people can rely on. In business and career circles, when people know they can rely on you, it can lead to promotions, partnerships, and new opportunities.

6. Balance Your Relationships

Sometimes, we focus so much on professional relationships that we neglect personal ones, or vice versa. This year, strive for balance. Make time for family and friends while also building professional relationships. Don’t let any suffer. Yes, I know life is busy but having a support system in different areas of your life ensures you don’t feel lonely or overwhelmed.
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Concluding Thoughts

Building stronger relationships in 2025 is not about having many contacts but about having the right ones. So, be intentional and invest in people the way you want them to invest in you.
Did you find this article useful? Contact us: editor@connectnigeria.com
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This article was first published on 15th March 2025
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victor-ifegwu-mbonu

Ifegwu-Mbonu Victor is a Personal Growth and Leadership Trainer who provides training and coaching to individuals and organizations.

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