What Kind of Partner Are You?

By: Terry Wisner
Submitted: 2007-01-17 16:25:30
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There are three kinds of partnerships in nature that I discuss in my Partnering talks and retreats. The first is called Mutualism. Mutualism is a relationship where both Partners benefit. While there are many examples of this, one is that of the fig wasp which helps the fig tree by providing fertilizer. The tree in turn, makes available a food supply for the wasp larvae. Albeit a somewhat distasteful example, that type of mutually beneficial relationship is what Partners should make every effort to develop.

Another example of a type of partnering from nature is that of the Clownfish, aka Nemo, and the sea anemone. The fish is able to swim among the poisonous tentacles of the anemone and remain immune to the poison. Therefore, it is safe from its predators. This is known as Commensalism– where one Partner benefits from the relationship and the other is not helped or harmed in any way. The third and final natural occurrence of partnering is referred to as Parasitism. This is where one organism or Partner gains (known as a parasite) and the other Partner (known as the host) suffers. A good illustration of this would be the Cimex Lectularius, or Bed Bug. They penetrate the skin and siphon out the hosts blood, leaving behind an itchy welt.

Anyone that has a bed bug bite knows they didn’t benefit from that relationship. Most of us know someone that could be a “Parasitic Partner,” be very careful not to be one. Partnering will not work if the relationship is harmful or causes harm to one of the Partners. In this case Partnering can be bad for the “host.”

Partnering can be successful where only one Partner succeeds. This is more commonly referred to as coaching or mentoring.

Partnering To Success is most advantageous when both Partners stand to gain, or benefit, from their Partnering relationship.

So, if the “Partnering To Success” process is followed, it is very unlikely that any harm will come to either Partner. In fact, greater success should be the only outcome.

Terry Wisner will help you and your sales team improve your numbers by helping build a high impact team of sales professionals. He delivers energetic and engaging seminars and keynote speeches that inspire and motivate. If your organization needs a performance improvement tune-up, contact Terry Wisner, the founder of Partnering To Success and discuss the possibilities. Email him at terry@p2s.us or visit http://www.partneringtosuccess.com and subscribe to our free, no hassle, no sales pitch (no kidding), eNewsletter "Partnering Perspectives."

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