Competence issues relate to actual work. It's useful to make explicit similar and different skill sets that people bring to partnership, and where problems might emerge as a function of that. A successful partnership is based on belief and experience that we can work together in a positive interdependence.

Motive issues relate to whether I experience “other” as trustworthy, and whether I trust their underlying motives for entering partnership. Here, ability of transparency comes into play for there must be a certain degree of self-disclosure to engage in mutual exploration built on integrity and authenticity.

Each person must answer question “Will I be able to trust this person as we work together?” Other useful questions at beginning of exploration are “What is my/your biggest fear about this new venture? What is worst thing that could happen? What compromises are you willing to make to ensure that it does not occur?”

The third concern that potential partners hold is that of status, which reflects balance of power and control that each person experiences in relation to other. The core ability of influence is pivotal here, for each partner must feel that they have ability to influence other, and at same time, be willing to be influenced.

Without self-awareness, ability to consciously develop relationship is limited. Similarly, self-disclosure on such deeply held inner experiences as status, motive and competence becomes easier and richer to degree that one is able look at oneself objectively.

If you're entering, or considering a new partnership, spend some time thinking about these issues. While you don't need to put “motive, status, and competence” on your agenda, find a structure for conversation that allows you both to explore these issues. Your partnership will only be richer and more likely to succeed for intention you put into it.

*********************************************** ACTION STEPS YOU CAN TAKE!

1. For a free list of questions that potential partners can ponder, send an email to manya@arond-thomas.com with “Partner Questions” in subject line.

2. Assessments are a great way to get data and insight into strengths you have that you can maximize and at same time, learn how to manage your weaknesses so they don't get in your way. To learn about how our assessments can help you, click here http://www.arond-thomas.com/assessments.

3. To learn more about executive leadership coaching and how it can help you get even better results, visit http://www.arond-thomas.com/services.

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(c) Copyright 2003. Manya Arond-Thomas, all rights reserved.

Quotation of WeekAll that is necessary to break spell of inertia and frustration is this: Act as if it were impossible to fail. That is talisman, formula, command of right-about-face which turns us from failure towards success.- Dorothea Brande -