Partnering
Partnering relationships require an emphasis on working WITH rather than simply FOR. Do you agree?
This principle is woven throughout the Acclivus curriculum. The definition of a partnering relationship refers to two people or organizations working together toward a common goal. The strength of the partnership depends on the extent to which each partner is working WITH the other to create value. To take it further, a strong partnership is a collaboration to achieve a mutually valuable outcome.
In our negotiations program, we teach that collaborative partnerships are those where needs are seen as being aligned to the point of interdependence and therefore complete trust is implicit. This could never be achieved if one “partner” is perceived as working for the other. We also teach our participants strategies to elevate relationships by consistently aligning needs.
What strategies to you employ to ensure you are working WITH your clients and not FOR them? How do you set those expectations and align needs?