Do you remember when you started your business or blog? Or when you first started looking for opportunities to expand your influence by serving on a board or volunteering for an company you really wanted to work for just to get your foot in the door?
For most of us, launching a new venture or goal means as Drake says, "We started from the bottom now we here." Yep. Working your way up and knocking on doors. It means working for next to nothing some time and taking on pro bono projects and clients.
And then {after a few years}...presto. You become an overnight success. After years of classes and honing your craft. After months of speaking for free and and gifting complimentary services to gather your proof of concept - everybody wants you.
When I first started to experience success in my consulting practice, I said yes to almost every opportunity that came my way. But I finally realized that not all opportunities were in line with my brand and I learned say 'no'.
So how do you know when to say yes? Here some tips to making sure that you dance card is full of partnerships align with your brand.
1. Do you have complimentary brands? Recently, I took my nephew to Wynwood. Famous for its arts district, spaces and artists. I was so intrigued that I read about its history and found out the the developers were intentional in marketing Wynwood as a sophisticated space for art and for what's new and now. It is now home to Art Basil - one of the biggest art shows in the world. Stay true to partnerships and events that resonate with your brand.
2. Do you have similar tribes? Make sure you have a clear understanding of who your key audience is. If you are speaking think about whether the members of the audience would be potential clients. Invited as a guests on a tv show? Think about whether their key audience is in need of your products and services. Don't waste your energy on partnerships that are not equitable.
3. Do you speak the same language? If you are high energy does the organization you are partnering with share the same vision or passion for the industry or topic? Do you have the same approach? Choose partners with synergies and partners with like minds.
Use these tips to grow your brand with authenticity with partners that genuinely compliment your brand and message.