Keep this relationship based information in a CRM system that will allow you to act on a moments notice.There are many sophisticated systems that are focused on sales statistices and they come with a big price tag. We recommend the one thet comes free wtih an online greeitng card and gift sending system called SendOutCards.  This automated and yet personalized system is a life saver wth its automated fields for keeping information, reminder system and also the greeting card, QR code video greeting card and gift sending features.  It is a perfect solutoin for any size business, because it can be adapted to your need.

Treat your vendors like honorary employees. It's important to initiate, nurture and sustain relationships with those people who aren't necessarily working for you but who service you or your company regularly. This can mean anyone from the package delivery guy who stops by every day to the materials supplier who keeps your warehouse stocked to the designer who keeps your website updated. Their word of mouth referrals for you are priceless. Send them a birthday card.

Know everyone's birthday. You might be thinking, How much of a difference will saying "Happy Birthday" really make? Well, the answer is a big one. People love to be acknowledged no matter the reason. And in a world where everyone is so wrapped up in their own lives, getting a happy birthday wish from the people you regularly come into contact with is becoming a rarity. Honestly...it is true.

Encourage a sense of ownership among your employees. Whether it comes from having a voice in major decisions, being able to work directly with clients, or actually owning stock, a sense of ownership will go a long way toward creating strong ties between your employees and your business. Inspiring your employees to love your business as much as you do will strengthen your company's foundation and your business will be that much more likely to survive setbacks and grow to great heights.

Have one-on-one conversations with your customers to find out what you can do better. Most of the time unsatisfied customers don't approach you with a detailed list of the things they'd like for you to improve on. They just leave you for one of your better-equipped competitors. Therefore, you must set aside some time to ask them what they need from you. This means you need to have automated systems in place that can also collect that information and express appreciation.

Contact your mentors frequently. Think about those people who gave you valuable advice when you were trying to get your business off the ground, or that person you call immediately when you need advice. That person is your mentor, and you want to have a close relationship with them so that they feel valued and are willing to go that extra mile to help you build your business. Give back. You have something to offer too! Be a mentor.

Constantly recognize a job well done. Everyone likes to be told they've done a good job on something, especially your employees. Statistics tell us people are driven more by recognition and voice...or feeling valued by asking for their input, than by dollars. So whether you implement an Employee of the Month plaque or simply say, "Thanks for the great job!", never miss an opportunity to give recognition in a personal, honest and authentic way. And when a client compliments an employee's work, never steal the credit -- indeed, be sure to pass the glowing review along to the rightful owner! And let everyone know. It's good for morale of any team or company to know that recognition might be coming their way some time in the future.

Be flexible with the people you count on. It is so important for you to be flexible when those around you run into problems and need to change their schedules in a way that affects your plans. Keep your priorities and mission in order. Be first to appreciate their value and your team or company will go the extra mile for you.

Make sure everyone has everything they need to do task at hand. If it is lack of education or faulty equipment...that is the responsibility of the person at the helm to provide.

Here's the bottom line: no matter how determined, hardworking, and talented you may be, you simply can't be a successful entrepreneur all by yourself. It takes a team to run a business. Always remembering that fact is critical to your success.

"Always be on the lookout for ways to show your key players appreciation." "Make sure they are getting as much out of the relationship as you are. Show them you care. Creating and nurturing positive business relationships will make being an entrepreneur a hugely rewarding experience. The more people who care about you and your business, the easier it will be for you to grow and sustain success" Joyce White Nelson owner JoyceVentures. www.joyceventures.com  Our team of relationship focused professionals are ready to guide your business to profit through building successful and mutually benefitical relationshiips.