Culturally, small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) share a natural alignment with one another. Unlike larger organizations that often morph into bureaucracies, drifting away from the original values and intentions of their humble beginnings, SMBs tend to maintain their grounding in shared purpose and a strong sense of community. This unique connection is especially evident in their relationships with their core SMB customers, whom we'll refer to as partners in business. Like the right life partners, the right business partners keep us grounded while fostering healthy growth and upward trajectories.
However, a challenge arises when businesses lose sight of the foundation that propelled their initial success. The disproportionate gap between 'what got us here' and the relentless push for growth at any cost often leaves organizations disconnected from the very partnerships that built their success. This is where SMBs can stand apart by nurturing relationships that emphasize mutual growth, shared values, and aligned goals.
Building the Wheel: Two Philosophies of Growth.
When building a strong foundation, there are generally two approaches, both akin to constructing a wheel:
1. From the Outside In: Starting with the outer circumference, then working inward to connect the pieces (spokes) and finally solidifying the center/pivot point.
2. From the Center Out: Building from the base or center first, then adding the spokes, followed by the inner wheel and outer circumference.
Most SMBs instinctively follow the second approach, focusing on creating a strong, solid core whether it's their values, purpose, or team before expanding outward. This methodology naturally aligns with cultivating partnerships that prioritize shared values, grit, and synchronized work philosophies.
The Question of Partnership
The choice of partners often defines the trajectory of SMBs. Would you prefer to collaborate with partners who share your critical values, work ethic, and approach to timelines and outputs? Or do you see value in working with entities that hold vastly different perspectives on business operations and task progression?
Both approaches can have merit, but for SMBs navigating an unpredictable future, the decision often hinges on the type of journey they want to take. Partnerships with shared philosophies and complementary strengths can lead to sustained growth, while mismatched relationships might derail progress or shift focus away from core priorities.
Let's Collaborate on This Insight
If you're an SMB, I'd love to hear your perspective. What kind of partner would you choose to navigate the uncharted future? Do shared values and philosophies drive your decisions, or are you open to contrasting viewpoints for growth? Share your thoughts at aaron@sonline.us I'm looking forward to co-authoring this conversation with you and learning from your experiences.