Collaboration - The Best Way to Produce Something Beautiful

My best clients are those who understand the importance of collaboration. Sure I’ve worked with companies over the years who have handed me some copy then said build me a website and call me when it’s done. And for the most part those projects have turned out just fine. But just fine isn’t good enough. Not any more. Not in the age of engagement where company websites and their associated social profiles have become the primary means by which businesses communicate with their customers.

The “Two Ears One Mouth” Model

Metaphorically speaking the fact that we have two ears and one mouth ought to suggest that we listen more than we talk. Metaphors aside, most of us still do it the other way around. But the key to collaboration is active listening. Asking questions and really listening to the answers. This, of course, is essential to any successful relationship, whether it’s personal or business. But many companies, and many clients/customers, still don’t get it. Let me put it this way. I can’t produce a website that properly represents your business if I don’t truly listen to your answers to my questions. You won’t feel confident in my ability if you don’t truly listen to my answers to your questions.

What You Should Expect From Me

You can expect me to:

• be at the top of my game – this means I will always be monitoring latest trends, best practices and new technologies
• be responsive – I will always do my best to respond to your voice or emails within 24 hours
• be proactive – I will always tell you about developments in the industry that I think will benefit your business
• be fun to work with – trust me on this one

What I Expect From You

In a word? Stay engaged. (Okay, that’s two words).

• stick to deadlines – if the project depends on you delivering content, stick to the deadline. It will keep the momentum going and will ensure that we don’t lose our enthusiasm
• keep the communication going – I know you’re busy. But try to answer my voice or emails within 24 hours. (I promise I’ll do the same)
• smile – working together should be fun. I’ll do my part to ensure it is

And Now Back to You

Is collaboration important to you? Would you rather be less involved? If you’ve worked with a company recently, were expectations clearly laid out? Did that make the process easier? Better? As always, thanks for your participation.

Photo credit: Artotem