Wasp Barcode Technologies: The Barcode Solution People

A Match Made in Heaven: Tips for Partnering with Local Businesses

You’re running a small business, and while keeping all of your business services in-house can be convenient, it may be best to outsource occasionally. For example, you want to create an online video for your YouTube campaign. Sure, Steve may be handy with his new video camera, but he’s better at closing the deal on your sales team. So it doesn’t make much sense to have him as your video developer too. Today, we’d like to give you a few of our tips to help create a partnership between you and another vendor that will last for years to come. Get On the Same Page Before you start work with a vendor or service provider, you’ll want to make sure you both have the same end goal and shared vision. If you are not clear upfront, then things can go awry very fast. Set Up Guidelines This is when you’ll want to lay out any parameters with the project at hand. Such parameters may include financial payment, timing of delivery, or overall budget. Both parties should be in agreement with all of the parameters before any work takes place. Handle Disagreements Effectively You’re likely to come across some disagreements throughout your partnership, but to make your partnership last over time, it’s important to properly handle any disagreements effectively. This also means addressing any issues early on. Don’t let bad feelings compile and simmer over time. Be upfront about disagreements and let each party know that they are welcome to approach the other when an issue needs to be addressed. Understand Their Culture Culture is very important to the survival and success of every small business, but not every business shares the same culture. It’s what makes them unique. When partnering with another business, you’ll want to have a good grasp of their culture. Are they laid back? Do they work from home, during odd hours? Do they email or do they prefer talking on the phone? All of this will help you better communicate during any projects and help make the process easier. Building a solid partnership does not happen over night. It takes time to build and nurture, but if done right, a business partnership with another local business can be very helpful in the success of your business. What experience do you have with partnering with other local businesses? Did it go well, or did it leave a sour taste in your mouth?