“A relationship’s importance is measured [by] how it contributes to your objectives in life,” writes former Nigerian corporate banker and now global consultant Sam Egube. To help readers analyze the value of relationships and their usefulness in achieving personal, professional and financial goals, the author developed The Samuel Egube Relationship Management Model. Using sales and marketing terminology, he describes a process to achieve relationships that benefit an individual’s goals.
A relationship—whether it is romantic, professional, or financial—should begin with an objective and strategic analysis of possible benefit. Using examples from his life in Lagos, Nigeria, the author says it’s necessary to identify the “market” (i.e., the relationship) and analyze the market’s value, competition and needs. Then the individual seeking the relationship identifies a “product or service” to offer, and targets and engages the relationship. Egube points out that the relationship also must be monitored for ongoing value, since relationships without current or future value need to be terminated.
At first glance, this philosophy appears to develop an unfair—even unpleasant—use of personal interactions between individuals, in which one person takes advantage of another. But the author’s use of personal anecdotes to illustrate his relationship methodology can be compelling. For example, he points out that when someone complains they have been “used,” he asks them what they gained during the relationship. If the answer is “nothing,” the individual has
Potential readers may disagree that the value inherent in most relationships is solely its worth to the individual developing the relationship. And the Relationship Management Model’s use of sales terminology is confusing at times. But readers looking to sharpen their interpersonal skills may find interesting points that can help them benefit from what the author views as “the realities of life.”
Also available in hardcover and ebook.
