"Success in business is all about people, people, people. Whatever industry a company is in, its employees are its biggest competitive advantage." - Richard Branson

Building Authentic Business Relationships in the Age of AI

I’ve spent the last 6 years building relationships online - connecting with incredible people through screens, chats, group coaching programs and virtual meetings. But nothing beats the feeling of meeting those same people in real life.

Last October, at the GoHighLevel Summit, I experienced this firsthand. All those Zoom calls and LinkedIn and Facebook messages turned into real smiles, conversations, and connections. It’s a reminder that while AI and tech keep us connected, there’s something irreplaceable about shaking hands and sharing a laugh in person. Here’s to blending the best of both worlds: tech efficiency and real, human connections!

In this picture I am meeting Alex Charfen - I have learned so much from him. This was incredible to meet him and his beautiful wife Cadey in person.

In a world where everything moves at the speed of light, building real, human connections is more important than ever. With AI transforming the way we communicate and operate, finding the balance between tech-savvy tools and genuine, human touch points is the secret sauce to success.

Let’s dive into why strong business relationships matter and how you can keep them authentic in the digital age.

Why Business Relationships Matter

Strong relationships are the backbone of every successful business. They build trust, loyalty, and a sense of shared purpose that sets your brand apart in a crowded marketplace. In an era where everything feels automated, those real connections are what keep people coming back.

The Upsides of Solid Business Bonds

• Better Collaboration: Great relationships lead to smooth teamwork. When you know and trust your colleagues, peers and partners, ideas flow, and solutions come naturally. Over the years I have had more brainstorming sessions with online business friends than I can count. And it went both ways.

• More Opportunities: Networking isn’t just about who you know - it’s about who knows you. Strong connections can open doors to partnerships, new clients, and growth opportunities. It is true what 'they' say. Your network is your net worth.

• Loyal Customers: When you build genuine relationships with your clients, they’re not just customers - they’re fans who will rave about you to others. In other words you will have super fans, like Pat Flynn will describe it.

• Personal Development: Engaging with a diverse network helps you grow, learn, and gain fresh perspectives, making you sharper in business and beyond. I have several accountability buddies, it is important to share your goals, dreams and aspirations with friends and peers that you can trust.

How to Build Business Relationships That Last

• Get Local: Join local business groups or chambers of commerce to meet like-minded professionals in your community. These spaces are perfect for swapping ideas and building those crucial face-to-face connections.

  As an introvert, I find this hard to do. But I also know first hand how these connections help to grow your business. It is a long term strategy.

• Leverage Social Media: LinkedIn, X, and even Facebook are not just about posting updates - they’re about engaging. Share insights, join conversations, and connect meaningfully with others in your industry.

• Attend Industry Events: Conferences, trade shows, and seminars aren’t just about learning—they’re networking goldmines. Use these opportunities to showcase your expertise and make new connections. I have met amazing people at industry events, as I mentioned the GHL Summit in the beginning of this article. I have also been to many other events over the years that have made a great contribution to my rolodex of business relationships.

AI’s Role in Modern Business Relationships

AI is shaking things up in the business world, no doubt about it. From chatbots that answer questions at any hour to automated marketing that feels personal, AI is a game-changer. But the key is to use these tools without losing the human touch.

AI’s Advantages in Business

• Always On: AI-powered tools like chatbots can keep your business running around the clock, offering quick responses that keep customers happy.

• Personalized at Scale: AI can dig through data faster than any human, helping you deliver hyper-personalized experiences that feel tailor-made.

• Efficiency Boost: Automate the repetitive stuff, and free up your team to focus on what really matters - building those authentic relationships.

A few years ago, I interviewed an amazing lady with the name of Miriam Steketee. In our podcast interview she talked about how she build a multimillion dollar business by building relationships.

You can watch the interview here:

Balancing AI with Genuine Human Interaction

While AI can handle the heavy lifting, it’s the human connections that leave a lasting impression. Here’s how to keep it real:

• Be Transparent: Let people know when they’re talking to AI versus a real person. Clarity builds trust.

• Know When to Hand Over: Complex issues? Sensitive topics? That’s when a human touch is needed. Don’t let AI replace empathy. As amazing AI is, it is still just a robot and robots have no soul or feelings.

• Human Follow-ups: Use AI insights to make your follow-ups more personal and impactful. A little thoughtfulness goes a long way. Pro Tip - a short 10-2- second video or voice note follow up is even more personal and powerful.

The Real Power of Authentic Connections

As AI continues to advance, the need for real, human relationships becomes even more valuable. AI can make things faster and easier, but it’s those moments of real connection that truly drive business forward. Embrace the tech, but never forget the magic of a handshake, a thoughtful conversation, or a personal touch that AI can’t replicate.

By blending AI with authentic interactions, you’re not just keeping up - you’re setting yourself apart. After all, at the heart of every successful business are the relationships built on trust, understanding, and a little bit of that human touch that no algorithm can replace.

The Real Power of Authentic Connections

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