Building relationships is often looked at as a proactive activity. There are specific things that need to be in place in order to cultivate good business relationships over the course of time. There are various communicative aspects that need to be considered and acted upon as relationships grow stronger.

For the most part, it all seems like a givers game. You performing acts and watching the response. You offering favors and awaiting cosmic reciprocity. We are also instructed to "go for it" and firm up relations.

All of the above are effective and do their parts in making better relationships. I am not one to argue with what works, however, there is the other side of the equation. It is just as important and contributes to the strengthening of relationships just the same.

It is the art of receiving. Most people, are not aware that making relationships work requires being humble and grateful recipients. We are very quick to say "no thank you" or "really, I'm fine". Doing this, unintentionally disarms the giver from fulfilling their position.

Maybe we somehow feel that if we accept, we will then be in debt. This is an incorrect and potentially destructive perspective to take. It is especially true in business relationships.

Most of the time, if we don't see an immediate benefit with a contact, we will reject and refuse all that is offered. We should know, you never know who a person is connected to that could prove beneficial to you or someone you would like to help down the line. Therefore, all relationships are to be considered worth the time of day.

Furthermore, the above doesn't take much effort but can be powerful. Below, are 3 ways to take the passive stance that build relationships, nevertheless;

1. Accept calls and return e-mails from ensuing colleagues.

The next time you receive a phone call or an e-mail from a new contact you would rather avoid because of their offers, take the call or respond to the e-mail. Put your fear and annoyance aside for a second and politely give an open ear. This show of respect, has reciprocal rewards and you may be positively and directly effected later on.

2. Honor invitations and respond to RSVPs.

You are busy. We all are but you should take time to accept invitations to lunch, events, and otherwise. Also, if you do not intend on attending an event, RSVP that you will not be able to make it. You can also add something personal to this message. This is a relationship builder for sure.

3. Accept gifts and answer politely to sales pitches.

Sales pitches can be an annoyance to our day. I will not condone them here but I will suggest taking the opportunity to give an open ear and politely decline. Take this opportunity to create one more leg in your business network.