Partnerships: Being part of a larger whole for business success
For those of us who are making plans and decisions for 2015, it is necessary to get back to basics in understanding the value of collaborative relationships in all aspects of our life, particularly our business partnerships. Webster defines Partnerships as: (noun) “the state of being partners; and … a relationship between partners.” Further research into the definition best sums it up as “the state of being related to a larger whole.” The concept of being part of a larger whole resonates with me and guides my involvement in community collaborations and business partnerships.
Cider Enterprises’ motto of “harnessing the energy of your ideas to help you reach your desired goals” is lived in real time commitment. The fulfillment of our claim “to help” is based upon the strength of our relationship with partners that are needed to coach and consult business owners. Partnerships are extremely important in helping organizations keep abreast of the latest practices and processes that entrepreneurs need to succeed.
One of the first things I do is get to know potential business partners on a personal level. I am definitely more interested in getting to know “Who” they are, and “What” and “Why” they do, at the outset. “How” they do it is generally secondary. During the get acquainted stage is where you can learn important determinant factors, such as demeanor and punctuality tendencies. I consider the following in my decision process for partnerships:
- Are they friendly or approachable?
- Is their disposition enthusiastic or energetic?
- Are they time conscious?
- Does their opening conversation “Speak Life” or “Death”?
I strive to keep an open mind, and remain non-judgmental, during these observations because it takes time and interaction to really know the overall quality of people. I suggest short casual time commitments to start, perhaps in a mutually agreed upon place. Allow for the opportunity to get better acquainted in one-on-one interactions before evolving into longer experiences, such as sharing a meeting, seminar, workshop or workout.
In business partnership choices, participants primarily weigh in heavily on the basis of complementary services or supplies they bring to the ‘larger whole’ of the partnership. The weight or leverage each partner brings to the business is also reflective in the compensation received from the partnership. Partnerships, at its most basic, are contracted commitments of integrity, loyalty, and success intentions between designated individuals in the business. Each partners’ role and contribution is spelled out at the start and changed according to the by-laws, which are also set up at the inception and amended as needed and agreed upon.
Cider Enterprises is a genuine resource for Entrepreneurs, who are considering the Opportunity of Partnerships. We declare that we get personal with and for our clients, and commit to assist business owners in making ‘right’ partnerships that grow their business. If you own a business and are open and adaptive to change in order to receive opportunities that add value, contact us to set up your “Protocol for Partnerships” and make them a standard for your business success.
Take a look at Cider Enterprises’ front line of Partnership support- the people that keep the Mother-Ship soaring:
Figure 1. Top left to right: Jo Anne Meekins, Editor & Web Presence; Joy Sigur-Ramza, Newsletter Publicist
Bottom left to right: Rhea Steele and Brian Powers, Corporate; John Porter, Branding
Figure 2. Top left to right: Claudette Redic, Core Partner;
(Jo Anne Meekins)
Bottom left to right: (Joy Sigur-Ramza); Janine Ingram, Spiritual Life Coach
Peace and Partnership in Business,
Claudette Redic
Cider Enterprises,
CEO/Owner
Cider Enterprises Book Club 