How do you maintain business relationships?

I've been with lots of great people in my career but I find it hard to maintain a close and long-lasting relationship with them. I hate to make relationships transactional. I don't meet people just to get favours. I genuinely enjoy every chat with new people, especially startup folks, especially the moment we spark inspiration for each other. In the end, we're all just human beings who want to do something for this world and live a happy life in our limited years. I always want to catch up with people but it seems too intentional for a zoom especially when we're not in the same country? or is it not?🤔 Anyone can kindly share with me some advice?

A quick "Hey, how's it going?" email or message at times. Sharing a hilarious meme or a silly joke occasionally. Sending them an article or a podcast episode that could be valuable.

frequently communication, remember special days.

Keeping communication open and regular without overdoing it.

At our marketing company, we give small personalized gifts every 3-6 months. These aren't just a gift card or a generic gift. For example, one of our clients loves The Office. So we gave her a basket of The Office stickers, swag, and Pop Funkos. Do something personal for your clients that shows you care.

A great way to acquire and maintain business contacts is business education. That was one of the reasons why I got an MBA.

communication is the key behind successful business relations.

Keep in touch with your contacts on a regular basis, whether it’s through email, phone calls, or social media.

Deploy empathy to customer needs: Provide something of value to your contacts, such as a referral or an introduction to someone who can help them.