Partnerships have been around for hundreds of years... Known by some as a country alliance, or a way of developing power within kingdoms. For some, it’s the way of co-habiting and for others its simply part of a business transaction process, without actually knowing a partnership exists. Either way, they are here to stay and how you recognise, acknowledge, and treat your partnerships is empowered by you!
This blog is not to set your measurements or even change your realistic expectations, however it does make for a little light reading, whilst enjoying a KitKat, a cup of tea and some useful reflection…
The first common myth is that partnerships should support each other, whilst in fact, maximal growth happens at the edge between support and challenge... Mother Nature demonstrates this beautifully during the changing of seasons and in predator and prey dynamics. Both creation and destruction are necessary for evolution and maximizing potential.
Secondly, communication will work better with formal agreements and ensure this. Nope! Do you think that even the most articulate marriage contract would guarantee harmonious relationships, where partners communicate clearly and perform better as spouses? Not likely! Written agreements are tools to aid the partnership process, designed to clarify roles and expectations, to facilitate communication and performance. But they for sure, do not guarantee it.
I have worked with many people over the years, who say they want an easier life, no conflict and any confrontation should be avoided. Do you see this as a way of "keeping somebody or something sweet", is this healthy for long term relationships? If done in the right context, conflicts and confrontations can provide you with essential GEMS for growing your partnership and solving problems.
Trust plays a huge part in relationships, it does need to be developed and surprising to some, it does not happen by accident, regardless if you believe if it is ‘given or earned’. Trust is built more effectively when you have a specific and purposeful trust building strategy. People have their own rules and beliefs about trust. People have their unique definition of trust. People experience feelings of trust differently. Allowing partners to be individuals and warm to you is easier than demanding it!
So, do we need to spend time developing? Tactical or strategically, one of the most important investments leaders make to ensure the success of their partnership is to develop strong relationships among their partners. Ask yourself, do you do business with people you do not respect? Personally, do you refer friends and colleagues to service providers you do not like? Are you transparent with leaders you do not trust?
Finally, and this one is a tip, to avoid competitors and know that they will not be your partners! I mean seriously if you do not have employees, clients, and bills to pay, then of course! But realistically, who made you the only important person in the room and that has all the answers? Not only do you need your competitors, but you will also benefit from working with them as partners. A definition of a competitor is an individual or organization who you perceive to be in the way of you achieving your objective... Do you avoid your competitors like the plague? Or do you refer to them?
Partnerships are visible within our everyday life; some may know them as a business partnership and other as a support bubble...
If you want to discuss partnerships in more details feel free to send me an email info@abl-business.co.uk we are always happy to talk about partnerships.