“Meet me at the Space Cow” - What are you willing to do to create a great business relationship?……
I was recently asked to meet at this exact location. It reminded me that in any relationship—personal or professional—finding a great partner is like striking gold…..and doing something out of the ordinary is worth it for a great relationship. Whether it’s a client, consultant, or advisor, when you’ve got someone who understands your goals and works seamlessly with you, it feels like a true partnership. When that connection is there, you naturally want to go the extra mile.
One of the biggest mistakes people make is treating others—especially consultants or service providers—like “vendors,” where the relationship is more about control than collaboration. When you see someone as just a vendor, the mindset shifts to using the stick more than the carrot. Demands, deadlines, and micromanagement take over, leaving little room for trust, flexibility, or innovation. This approach may get short-term results, but it won’t foster the kind of partnership that leads to long-term success.
A good partner, on the other hand, is someone who gets what you’re trying to achieve and consistently delivers. When you find someone like that, it makes sense to treat them with the respect and flexibility they deserve. Maybe that means being more understanding about shifting timelines, offering more than what’s outlined in the contract, or simply being open to feedback and changes. It’s about building a relationship, not just getting a service done.
Simple Actions to Be a Good Partner (“Never quit dating your client” - Lana Hillebrand)
Here are a few small actions to ensure you’re contributing to a strong, positive partnership:
1. Communicate Clearly and Often: Share your expectations upfront, provide regular feedback, and don’t let issues fester. Open communication shows respect and keep everyone aligned.
2. Be Reliable: Stick to deadlines, follow through on promises, and do what you say you will. Being dependable fosters trust, and trust is the key.
3. Show Appreciation: It’s easy to forget, but simple gestures like thanking someone for their work go a long way. Acknowledging their effort boosts morale and strengthens the partnership.
4. Offer Flexibility: Things rarely go exactly as planned, and showing a little flexibility can make all the difference. Work together to adjust when things change. This builds goodwill and often leads to better results.
5. Respect Their Expertise: Remember why you hired this person or company in the first place—they bring skills and knowledge to the table. Trust their judgment, be open to their ideas, and let them do what they do best.
By taking these small steps, you can avoid the "vendor" mentality and build a true partnership. When you invest in your relationship, you create an environment where everyone can thrive, and the results will speak for themselves.
And when asked, be willing to meet at the Space Cow.