What’s the secret to better business relationships? With Dr Linda Papadopoulos and Nina Gopal

A lot has changed about how we work and do business. But one truth has remained the same – the importance of relationships. 

We've all felt the benefits of building good business relationships; successful projects, faster progress, confident decisions, career opportunities and meaningful support. 

We've probably all felt the effects of less-good relationships too; stilted results, miscommunication, lack of trust and a lot of frustration. 

 Whether it's the long-standing client who just introduced a new leader, the potential client who isn't really looking to buy right now, or the unlikely alliance that could change everything; behind every deal, launch, and partnership is people - and the way we relate to each other is at the heart of what really drives success. 

So, what does it take to build successful business relationships in a world of hybrid meetings, endless emails, and fast-moving change? 

That's what we're exploring with Dr Linda Papadopoulos, psychologist, academic and author, and Nina Gopal, a partner in banking and capital markets at Deloitte UK, as we ask: What's the secret to stronger business relationships? 

Tune in to find out:

• What three traits are found in every successful relationship
• How to transform conflict into a catalyst for better business relationships
• Why our reliance on digital communication is preventing us from truly connecting
• Two things we can all do tomorrow to improve our professional interactions

Enjoyed this episode? Check our website for our recommendations to learn more about this topic: Deloitte.co.uk/greenroompodcasts

Find out more about Cook For Good here: cookforgood.uk

Guests: Dr Linda Papadopoulos, psychologist, academic and author, and Nina Gopal, a partner in banking and capital markets at Deloitte UK

Hosts: Lizzie Elston and Oli Carpenter

Original music: Ali Barrett

Recording date and location: London, 03.10.25