Avoiding Toxic Professional Partnerships
The other day, I had a small but humbling reminder of how easy it is to think you’ve got things under control, and be wrong.
I had an appointment planned, carefully entered into my calendar 6 months ago. I am the fastidious sort, so I just instantly hit delete with every email and text reminder they sent me - two weeks before, one week before, two days before, one day before…🙅♀️.
Like…enough, OK? I’m on it!
Except I wasn't. I was, in fact, about 5 hours off. Imagine the receptionist’s surprise when I walked in at 2pm for what was supposed to be my 9am. 🤦♀️ A simple mistake, but boy did I feel wretched.
Just like people who have worked in service jobs are the best tippers at a restaurant, I’m really sensitive to the delicate dance of professional relationships because every bit of my work is dependent on others holding up their end of the bargain – clients who I work with and any freelancers I might hire. And I didn’t want this business to think I was sloppy and didn’t care about my relationship with them, because I really did!
Solopreneurs - those of us who work independently and therefore choose to wear all the proverbial business hats - really have to need someone else's skill set before we engage them to work with us. It’s nerve wracking to bring someone else in a project so personal.
That’s why reliability in this professional relationship isn’t just about showing up (like me missing my appointment), when working with another solopreneur it’s about accuracy, communication, and showing up with purpose.
Personal rant – Is there any greater form of sabotage than joining someone else’s project and then not delivering what you promised on time, on budget, and with the agreed upon tone of voice?
We need our professional partners to be people who show up, take ownership, and genuinely care about what the mission is.
And it really feels like we have “missions”, not just jobs, because we're most often working from a place of passion in what we do!
The key is to build relationships you can rely on, because consistency beats flash every single time.
If you need a reliable partner, I swear to check my calendar. Every time.
Meet Parent and Teen Coach Elvira DiBrigit
This series spotlights entrepreneurs who are working hard to stay current and motivated in their business world as they go it alone in their respective fields. Production by: Stefanie Small
3 Hot Tips for Building a Trustworthy Network
Attend niche-specific events and join relevant online communities: By engaging with others who share your interests and industry, you increase the likelihood of meeting like-minded professionals who understand the unique challenges and opportunities you face. Actively participating in events and forums allows you to showcase your expertise, learn from others, and forge connections based on shared experiences and goals.
Seek referrals and recommendations from trusted sources: Reach out to colleagues, mentors, or peers who have established networks, and ask for introductions to reliable professionals who can complement your skill set and contribute to your business's growth. Recommendations from people you trust can help ensure that new connections are likely to be dependable and committed.
Nurture relationships through consistent engagement and mutual support: Building trust takes time and effort. Regularly connect with your contacts, share resources and insights, and celebrate their successes. By demonstrating genuine interest and offering value, you'll cultivate a network of individuals who are invested in your success and eager to collaborate on projects or offer guidance when needed.
Referrals are the lifeblood of every small business, including mine!
Do you have a friend who is looking to go into business for themselves?
Is your mom looking to take her jewelry making side hustle to the next level?
Does your brother need new professional photos or a portfolio website for a job search?
You can:
Give them my website: www.StefanieSmall.com
Introduce us over email: sjsmall560@gmail.com
Reach out through LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/stefanie-small
THANK YOU!
