Over the years, I've noticed that successful business people can be magnets for people who aren't doing as well. The people with less to offer approach the thriving ones with offers that sound like:

Although it may be flattering to have someone approach you in this manner, these overtures are often code for "I'm struggling"/"I don't want to do the work"/"I don't know what I'm doing."

 

Beware and be careful.

 

If you consider establishing an alliance, it's essential that the arrangement is mutually beneficial. If one party benefits more than the other, the imbalance of power will create problems. It needs to be a "win-win" for both parties, in effect, an alliance of peers.

 

Entering into an alliance needs to benefit you and your business in a way that you gain more by being in the alliance, than if you chose not to pursue it. Here are some key questions to consider:

If you have a genuine opportunity to create an alliance of peers, do your due diligence, make sure you consult your advisors, and be very specific about the results you want to attain.

 

Have a great week!

 

 

Copyright 2009 Lisa M. Aldisert

 

 

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Our goal is to provide you with timely tips so that you can more effectively run your business. We know you have a ton of mail in your inbox, so we're committed to brevity and practicality.

 

 

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Although celebrities need to pay attention to stealth photo snapping and web posting, we "regular people" need to be alert as well. One "relaxed moment" may compromise you when you least expect it.

 

 

 

 

Julia E. Rosenbaum