Let me explain through five unfiltered truths I learned the hard way — some through exits, some through bankruptcies. Related: How to Build and Sustain Deep, Meaningful Business Relationships (and Why It's the Key to Long-Lasting Success)1. Related: Want Strong Business Relationships? They knew we had strong relationships across departments, high employee retention and a culture of transparency. Strong companies don't just have good leaders — they have good decision-making systems.