August 31, 2024
Hey there! Matt Levenhagen here. Today, we're diving into something that’s at the heart of successful outsourcing—building strong, strategic relationships. If you've been following along or have downloaded my guide, “Outsourcing Fit“, you know we've covered a lot about outsourcing, but this might just be the glue that holds it all together.
Now, I've been around the block a few times in this business world, and one thing I’ve learned is that relationships matter—a lot. Whether you're outsourcing for the first time or you've been doing it for years, the partnerships you build can make or break your success.
The Foundation of Strategic Partnerships
When it comes to outsourcing, the relationship you have with your partners is the bedrock of your success. It’s not just about finding someone to do the work; it’s about finding someone who understands your business, shares your vision, and is committed to helping you achieve your goals.
You see, I didn’t start my company, Unified Web Design, with just skills and a good idea. I built it with people—people I trust, people who get what I’m about, and people who are as invested in my success as I am in theirs. That’s the kind of partnership you want when you’re outsourcing.
So, how do you build these kinds of relationships? Well, it starts with a simple but crucial concept: alignment.
Alignment of Goals and Values
The first step in any successful outsourcing relationship is ensuring that your goals and values are aligned. Think of it like dating—there’s got to be a connection, a shared understanding of what you both want out of this relationship.
When I’m considering a new partnership, whether it’s with a web developer in another country or a local digital marketing agency, I’m looking for more than just skills. I want to know that they understand my business and that we’re on the same page about what success looks like.
For instance, if my goal is to create a seamless, top-notch user experience, I need a partner who values quality as much as I do. If I’m all about transparency and communication, I need a partner who’s committed to keeping those lines open. It’s about finding someone who shares your vision and is willing to put in the work to make it happen.
Communication: The Lifeline of Collaboration
Speaking of keeping lines open, let’s talk about communication. You’ve probably heard it a million times, but it bears repeating—communication is everything. Without it, even the best-laid plans can fall apart.
When you’re working with external teams, especially those halfway across the world, clear and consistent communication is non-negotiable. I’ve learned this the hard way over the years. Misunderstandings can lead to delays, errors, and sometimes even project failures.
That’s why I make it a point to over-communicate. Whether it’s through Slack, email, or regular video calls, I ensure that everyone involved knows exactly what’s expected, what the deadlines are, and what the next steps will be. This approach has saved me from a lot of headaches and helps keep our projects running smoother.
But communication isn’t just about sharing information; it’s about building trust. When your outsourcing partner knows they can rely on you for clear, honest communication, they’re more likely to reciprocate. And trust me, that’s where the magic happens.
The Power of Trust in Outsourcing
Trust is the cornerstone of any successful relationship, and outsourcing is no exception. Without trust, you’re always going to be second-guessing your partners, micromanaging their work, and stressing over every little detail. That’s no way to run a business.
Building trust takes time, but it’s worth the investment. Start by being reliable—meet your commitments, pay on time, and be transparent about your expectations. When your partners see that you’re dependable, they’ll start to reciprocate, and that’s when you can really start to build something special.
I remember early on in my business when I was still figuring things out, I had a partner who was paying invoices late. That's a problem, but instead of just cutting ties, I took the time to talk with them, figure out what the issue was, and work together to find a solution. That small effort to build trust turned a frustrating situation into a long-term, successful partnership.
And that’s the thing—outsourcing isn’t just about getting work done cheaper or faster. It’s about building relationships that can support your business as it grows and evolves.
Long-Term Success through Strategic Partnerships
Finally, let’s talk about the long game. Outsourcing isn’t a quick fix; it’s a strategic move that can pay off big if you play it right. The key is to think of your outsourcing partners as part of your team, not just hired hands.
When you invest in building strong, strategic relationships, you’re setting yourself up for long-term success. These relationships can help you scale your business, navigate challenges, and even open up new opportunities that you might not have been able to achieve on your own.
I’ve seen it in my own business. The partners I’ve invested in, the ones I’ve taken the time to build real relationships with, are the ones who’ve stuck around for the long haul. They’ve helped me grow Unified Web Design from a small operation into a thriving agency, and I couldn’t have done it without them.
Conclusion
So, if you’re looking to outsource—or even if you’re already doing it—take a step back and think about the relationships you’re building. Are you just looking for a quick fix, are you just ‘taking orders' or are you investing in partnerships that will stand the test of time?
Remember, successful outsourcing isn’t just about getting work done. It’s about building strong, strategic relationships that can help you grow, adapt, and succeed in an ever-changing business landscape. So go out there, find your people, and build something great together.
Until next time, keep dreaming, keep building, and most importantly, keep those relationships strong!
