How do you meet partner expectations?

1 Define expectations

The first step is to define the expectations of both parties clearly and explicitly. This means having a written agreement that outlines the scope, goals, roles, responsibilities, timelines, and metrics of the partnership. It also means communicating regularly and openly about any changes, challenges, or feedback that may affect the expectations. By defining expectations, you can avoid misunderstandings, conflicts, and disappointments.

2 Align values

The second step is to align the values of both parties and ensure that they are compatible and complementary. This means understanding the mission, vision, culture, and ethics of your partner and how they align with yours. It also means respecting and supporting the values of your partner and finding ways to create synergy and mutual benefit. By aligning values, you can foster a shared purpose, identity, and commitment.

3 Manage performance

The third step is to manage the performance of both parties and ensure that they are meeting or exceeding the expectations. This means monitoring and measuring the progress, results, and impact of the partnership using the agreed-upon metrics and indicators. It also means providing and receiving constructive feedback, recognition, and support to improve the performance. By managing performance, you can demonstrate accountability, quality, and value.

4 Adapt to changes

The fourth step is to adapt to the changes that may occur in the partnership and the external environment. This means being flexible and responsive to the needs, preferences, and opportunities of your partner and the market. It also means being proactive and innovative in finding solutions, creating new value propositions, and enhancing the partnership. By adapting to changes, you can show agility, resilience, and growth.

5 Nurture relationships

The fifth step is to nurture the relationships that underpin the partnership and make it more than a transaction. This means building rapport, trust, and respect with your partner and their stakeholders. It also means communicating effectively, listening actively, and empathizing genuinely. By nurturing relationships, you can create a positive, collaborative, and lasting partnership.

6 Celebrate successes

The sixth step is to celebrate the successes that you achieve together with your partner and acknowledge the contributions of both parties. This means sharing the stories, outcomes, and impacts of the partnership with your audiences and networks. It also means expressing gratitude, appreciation, and recognition to your partner and their team. By celebrating successes, you can reinforce the value, satisfaction, and loyalty of the partnership.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?