Building a successful partnership takes skill, time and patience. The following are some specific strategies to help:
KEYS TO SUCCESSFUL PARTNERSHIPS
• Establish a sense of need and direction
All partners need to know they're working toward a worthwhile purpose. They also need to know what is expected of them.
• Be prepared to help
Partnerships will need technical and communications expertise, as well as problem-solving and interpersonal skills.
• Pay particular attention to the early meetings and activities
First impressions mean a lot. People are often skeptical at the first meeting and may be suspicious of other partners.
• Set some ground rules
Law enforcement will need to set some specific ground rules related to meeting participation, discussion, confidentiality, constructive feedback and expected contributions.
• Start with a few short-term tasks that have a good chance for success
Be sure that early projects are realistic and will be seen as "winners" in the eyes of the partners.
• Challenge the group regularly with fresh facts and information
New information (that you will be gathering as a partnership) will help to better understand your situation and improve your effectiveness.
• Use the power of positive feedback, recognition, and reward
People respond to positive incentives in the partnership setting just as they do as individuals.
WHY PARTNERSHIPS FAIL
• Past failures
If past efforts have failed, partners may fear similar results with a new initiative.
• Lack of commitment
Partners who feel they are already stretched too thin with existing responsibilities and resources may be hesitant to fully engage.
• Worry about lost independence
No one wants to be pressured into commitments they aren’t able to live up to.
• Lack of credit for contributions
People respond to positive incentives in the partnership setting just as they do as individuals.
