It may seem a like a minor detail when you’re facing pressing client deadlines and mounting workloads, but taking the time to get to know your client can help cultivate a stronger relationship.  It can be as simple as remembering your client’s birthday, recognizing a significant milestone in their life or an accomplishment by one of their children, or helping a client’s spouse network for a new job.  These types of gestures will go a long way in building a strong personal relationship with your client.

Remember that clients are people too and getting to know them on a personal level helps to build trust.  Take the time to get to know your client by going out for lunch or a quick cup of coffee.  Clients tend to be more relaxed under these circumstances and may talk about business in a way you wouldn’t hear in a formal meeting which will benefit your business relationship as well.