Straight Talk About Small Business Success

Understanding Goals and Aspirations for Business Success

Episode Summary

This edition of Straight Talk CPAs features Brad Englert, a sage in business relationships. We delve into the mechanisms of maintaining effective internal and external connections and the strategies leaders can use to thrive in the corporate landscape. - Understanding the internal and external influence spheres - Mastering expectation management for stronger bonds - Culture as the cornerstone of prosperous business relations - The dynamic of strategic partnerships under the lens Empower your professional network with Brad's decades of wisdom, distilled into one enlightening conversation.

Episode Notes

**Building Authentic Business Relationships**
- Introduction to Brad Englert, experienced author and advisor
- Brad's background including his time at Accenture and the University of Texas
- Overview of Brad's book, 'Spheres of Influence', which guides leaders on creating lasting business relationships

**Exploring Spheres of Influence**
- Definition of internal and external spheres of influence
- Three principles for authentic relationships: understanding goals/aspirations, setting expectations, and genuinely caring for others' success

**Goal Alignment and Expectation Management**
- Importance of understanding goals and aspirations for clients and employees
- The failure of businesses to ask these critical questions
- Strategies for entrepreneurs to connect more effectively with their clients and team

**Creating a Culture of Engagement and Support**
- Brad's approach to leadership and creating a supportive company culture
- Encouraging proactive work and establishing trust-based relationships

**Strategic Partnerships and Vendor Relationships**
- Building strategic relationships with vendors to achieve long-term success
- Leveraging relationships to navigate business challenges effectively

**Closing Thoughts**
- Brad shares personal anecdotes to illustrate the importance of strong relationships in business
- Encouragement to start with one relationship and build from there

Tweetable Quotes:

"We're all surrounded by relationships, especially in business." - Brad Englert
"Start with one relationship and build from there." - Brad Englert
"You don't have to be born with the ability to build relationships, you can learn it." - Brad Englert