Lessons from IBM and Maersk, looking back in time and when to announce partnerships
IN PARTNERSHIP WITH BE IN MOTION
Welcome to Partnership Wednesday! Here are 3 ideas from me and 1 question for you to consider this week to create partnerships you never thought possible.
3 IDEAS FROM ME
I.
In 2016, IBM and Maersk launched a blockchain platform to make global trade more efficient and transparent. In 2023 the venture ended due to low adoption. Competitors resisted, fearing loss of control, stalling the network effects critical to success.
Key Lesson: Ecosystem partnerships need aligned incentives and trust. Innovation alone isn’t enough.
II.
Strong and unexpected partnerships are often started by people who have enjoyed working together in the past.
III.
When is the right time to announce a new partnership? I was asked this question from the crowd this week. Here’s my answer:
There is a right time to announce a new partnership. But most companies get it wrong. They do it early—thinking the announcement will create momentum. The truth is announcing a partnership before hitting your first milestone doesn’t build momentum—it creates a sugar hit.
Here’s the better way:
• Build the first milestone together.
• Show the real results of the partnership.
• Announce when there’s something both sides are proud of.
Because partnerships aren’t about promises—they’re about proof.
When you announce the first milestone with your partner:
• It validates the risk both sides took.
• It sets the tone for future collaboration.
• It shows your audience momentum, not just hype.
Don’t promise momentum. Prove it.
1 QUESTION FOR YOU
Who from your past have you enjoyed working with and could consider partnering with today?
PARTNERSHIP+ MOMENT
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Until next Wednesday,
Phil Hayes-St Clair - Partnership Expert & Coach
When you're ready, there are three ways I can help you:
1. Partnership Essentials: A self-paced, practical online course for entrepreneurs and small business owners. In just 30 days, you'll build a partnership operating system that turns conversations into contracts.
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3. Performance Partnerships: A coaching program designed for organisations aiming for sustainable, meaningful growth. The goal: Achieve double-digit growth through strategic partnerships in 12 months—without overwhelming your team.
Looking for something different? Send me an email.
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