Sustainable relationships will see South African firms through the current stormy business climate. That’s the message from leading independent Tier 1 telco, ICTGlobe.com, as the country experienced a GDP contraction in the first quarter.

“All things considered, however, I’m upbeat. We’ve seen the Rand pull off some tremendous gains this month, inflation remains unexpectedly low at around 4% and there’s talk of a modest rate cut,” says ICTGlobe.com General Manager, Riaan Van Stryp.

He adds that the independent telco and ICT services provider continues to advise its resellers, clients and others to be hopeful while keeping preparedness top of mind.

“C-level executives should have been scanning the horizon and anticipated much of what has lately materialised. Aside from putting in place contingency plans to deal with such tangibles as the reliable supply of basic utilities, SA business should have spent the past several years building sustainable business relationships,” Mr Van Stryp says.

Rock-solid business relationships that span the full supplier and customer continuum are the only way small businesses and enterprise-class corporations alike can weather severe economic storms. “When the chips are down, sustainable relationships built on fairness and a mutual win-win philosophy will see organisations survive together,” he adds.

Mr Van Stryp says its never too late to start building sustainable business relationships and provides this advice to local business:

Don’t box long-term customers by simply viewing them as repeat purchasers. Engage them in more meaningful, deeper ways like explaining your brand values and strategic direction to them.

Look for ways to provide reliable clients with additional value that doesn’t cost them more. Up-selling is great but everyone appreciates a freebie! Providing expertise at no cost also counts.

You don’t have to limit your interaction with valued customers to the up close and personal kind - find your best clients on social media and add them, Like them, Follow them and more.

When it’s time for new product launches or a new creative direction, you could consider inviting valued clients to focus groups and business getaways to solicit their valued input. Everyone feels special when asked for their opinion on important business matters.

As a Tier 1 operator, ICTGlobe.com owns its telecoms network meaning it has full control over roll-out and maintenance of this core asset. Operating its own interconnect and networking facilities means the firm can reliably offer voice calls at the country's most affordable rates.