Believe it or not, this life’s lesson is plucked from an article I’m reading on Business Alliances for my classes on how to create excellent alliances…
Worst case scenario – great working relationship
Best case scenario – LOVE!
Individual Excellence – Both should be independently strong and bring something of value to contribute to alliance. Have positive goals, not just looking to escape something.
Importance – The relationship should fit your strategic objectives so both want to make it work
Interdependence – Partners complement each other and neither can accomplish on own what both can together
Investment – Invest in each other to show mutual respect, commitment
Information – Open communication, share goals, trouble spots, changing perspectives
Integration – Link operations to teach and learn from each other, bridge on many levels
Institutionalization – Make relationship formal, not easily broken, set clear responsibilities and decision processes
Integrity – Behave honorably towards each other, no abuse of power, no undermining!
Seems like pretty wise advice for any relationship!
Citations:
Kanter, R. M., (1994). Collaborative Advantage: The Art of Alliances. Harvard Business
Review, 94405, 96-108.
