How to salvage partnerships, Apples unlikely ally and creating emotional connections with new partners
IN PARTNERSHIP WITH BE IN MOTION - THE EVERYDAY PROGRESS COMPANY
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 1997, Apple and Microsoft hit reset on their rivalry with a surprising partnership. Microsoft invested 150M USD in Apple and committed to supporting Office for Mac. In return, Apple made Internet Explorer its default browser. The move stabilised Apple’s finances and set the stage for its iconic turnaround.
Even strained partnerships can be salvaged when both sides focus on shared ambition and long-term value.
II.
Warren Buffett calls partnership an emotional alliance between two parties committed to each other’s success. To build this, help your partner envision a better future with your product or service. Don’t just offer access, create a memorable experience that transforms them from stranger to partner to ally and raging advocate.
III.
You've missed a deadline in a partnership. How can you salvage the relationship? I was asked this question from the crowd this week. Here’s my answer:
How you respond matters more than the mistake itself. Here are 4 steps to recover the situation:
Acknowledge the mistake immediately. Own it—no excuses, no finger-pointing. A simple, “I missed this, and I’m sorry,” goes a long way.
Explain what happened, but keep it brief. Transparency builds trust, avoid over-explaining or deflecting responsibility.
Present a recovery plan. Share exactly how you’ll fix the issue, prevent a recurrence, and ensure their needs are still prioritised.
Reaffirm the partnership. Let them know you value the relationship and are committed to delivering.
A thoughtful response transforms a slip-up into an opportunity to show accountability and professionalism, building trust instead of eroding it.
1 QUESTION FOR YOU
What small gesture can you make to thank a partner for their contribution in 2024?
PARTNERSHIP+ MOMENT
You can listen or watch full episodes of Partnership+ on your next commute or workout. Here’s a short moment that will give you a shot of partnership goodness. Subscribe to Partnership+ on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and Youtube!
Tap the tile to watch!
KNOW PEOPLE WHO NEED THIS?
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https://philhsc.com/partnership/4-december-2024
Until next Wednesday,
Phil Hayes-St Clair - Partnership Expert & Coach, Host of Partnership+
IN PARTNERSHIP WITH BE IN MOTION - THE EVERYDAY PROGRESS COMPANY
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The Wednesday Partnership Newsletter includes 3 ideas and 1 question for you to create business partnerships that you never thought possible.
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