What's the best way to build and maintain sustainability partnerships?

1 Identify potential partners

The first step is to identify potential partners that share your vision and mission for sustainability. You can start by researching the sustainability landscape in your industry, region, or sector, and look for organizations that have complementary skills, resources, or networks. You can also reach out to your existing contacts, customers, suppliers, or investors, and ask for referrals or recommendations. Once you have a list of potential partners, you can evaluate them based on their reputation, track record, impact, and compatibility with your objectives and culture.

2 Establish clear expectations

The next step is to establish clear expectations and roles for each partner. You should communicate openly and honestly about your goals, values, strengths, weaknesses, and needs. You should also define the scope, duration, and deliverables of the partnership, and how you will measure and report on the outcomes. You should also agree on the governance structure, decision-making process, and conflict resolution mechanism for the partnership. A written agreement or memorandum of understanding can help you formalize and document these aspects.

3 Build trust and rapport

The third step is to build trust and rapport with your partners. You should treat them as equals and respect their perspectives and contributions. You should also communicate regularly and transparently, and share feedback, challenges, and successes. You should also celebrate milestones and achievements, and acknowledge each other's efforts and impact. You should also seek to learn from your partners, and leverage their expertise, insights, and networks. By building trust and rapport, you can foster a positive and productive relationship that can withstand difficulties and changes.

4 Adapt and innovate

The fourth step is to adapt and innovate with your partners. You should monitor and evaluate the progress and impact of the partnership, and identify areas for improvement or adjustment. You should also be open to new opportunities, challenges, or ideas that may emerge from the partnership, and explore ways to co-create solutions or value. You should also embrace diversity and creativity, and encourage experimentation and learning. By adapting and innovating, you can enhance the relevance and effectiveness of the partnership, and create a competitive edge.

5 Engage stakeholders

The fifth step is to engage stakeholders with your partners. You should communicate and collaborate with the relevant internal and external stakeholders that are affected by or interested in the partnership. You should also seek their input, feedback, and support, and address their concerns or expectations. You should also showcase the results and impact of the partnership, and share the stories and lessons learned. By engaging stakeholders, you can increase the visibility and credibility of the partnership, and create a broader network of allies and advocates.

6 Review and renew

The final step is to review and renew the partnership with your partners. You should reflect on the achievements and challenges of the partnership, and assess its value and sustainability. You should also solicit and provide feedback, and appreciate and recognize each other's contributions and impact. You should also discuss the future of the partnership, and whether you want to continue, expand, or end it. You should also explore new possibilities or opportunities for collaboration or growth. By reviewing and renewing, you can ensure the partnership remains relevant and beneficial for all parties.

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?