Why not take advantage of our experience of working in partnerships? Below are some of our top tips which you may find useful.
At the start of a partnership:
- Be clear why you are in the partnership
- Make sure everyone is there that needs to be
- Listen to others and take time to understand and respect their agenda
- Recognise the skills and abilities of other people
- Realise that people have preconceived ideas about certain things
- Ensure everyone is there as an equal player
- Focus on points of agreement and reach a shared vision
- Have absolute clarity about the partnership’s aims and objectives
- Be detailed about the specific roles and responsibilities and be clear on accountability
- Take the time to plan thoroughly including how you will tackle potential difficulties.
Working in the partnership:
- Realise that working in partnership takes a long time
- Be action focused and deliver real change on the ground
- Minimise bureaucracy and avoid paperwork
- Make informed, democratic decisions
- Have an independent chair so that no one dominates
- Use good venues with good hospitality to make meetings enjoyable
- Have clear and transparent methods of communication and create effective links
- Don’t start with a blank sheet, instead take some ideas to start discussions
- Work with openness, trust and honesty
- Be responsive and show you are flexible
- Be patient and don’t push other partners to work at an unrealistic pace
- Have a champion to maintain momentum
- Celebrate and publicise your successes.
When there are problems:
- Take action immediately to find a solution
- Don’t be afraid to bring in external, impartial help.
