What are the best practices for approaching a new partner?

1 Research your target

Before you reach out to a potential partner, do your homework. Find out as much as you can about their goals, challenges, needs, and interests. What are they working on, what are they looking for, what are they struggling with? How can you help them achieve their objectives or solve their problems? How do they fit into your own strategy and vision? The more you know about your target, the more you can tailor your pitch and show them that you understand their situation and value proposition.

3 Choose the right channel and timing

The next step is to choose the right channel and timing for your outreach. Depending on your target, you may want to use email, phone, social media, or a referral from a mutual contact. Whatever channel you choose, make sure you follow the etiquette and best practices of that medium. For example, if you use email, use a clear and catchy subject line, keep your message short and polite, and include a clear call to action. If you use phone, be respectful of their time, introduce yourself and your purpose, and ask for permission to continue. If you use social media, be professional and friendly, and avoid being too pushy or intrusive. As for timing, try to find out the best time to reach your target, avoid busy or inconvenient hours, and follow up appropriately if you don't get a response.

4 Build rapport and trust

When you get a response from your potential partner, your goal is to build rapport and trust with them. This means being respectful, attentive, and responsive. Listen to their questions, concerns, or feedback, and address them with honesty and empathy. Show them that you care about their needs and goals, and that you are willing to collaborate and compromise. Don't make unrealistic promises or pressure them to commit. Instead, offer them value, support, and guidance. Be transparent about your expectations, terms, and processes, and ask them about theirs. Establish a clear communication plan and follow up regularly.

5 Demonstrate your value and differentiation

As you progress in your conversation with your potential partner, you need to demonstrate your value and differentiation. This means showing them how your partnership can help them achieve their desired outcomes, and how you stand out from other potential partners. You can do this by providing them with relevant information, evidence, or examples that showcase your expertise, experience, or results. You can also invite them to try your product or service, or to join a webinar, workshop, or demo that illustrates your value proposition. You can also highlight your unique features, benefits, or advantages that make you a better fit for their needs or preferences.

6 Ask for feedback and commitment

The final step is to ask for feedback and commitment from your potential partner. This means asking them if they have any questions, doubts, or objections that you can address, and if they are ready to move forward with the partnership. You can also ask them for their opinion, suggestions, or input on how to improve or customize the partnership. You can also propose a timeline, a budget, or a contract that outlines the details and expectations of the partnership. Be confident and assertive, but not aggressive or pushy. Express your enthusiasm and appreciation, and emphasize the benefits and value of the partnership for both parties.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?