Principle #5: Discernment is a powerful tool.

As I continuously wade through countless urls, phone calls, emails, introductions, etc., I realize how useful the principle and skill of discernment is to the process of facilitating an effective alliance and designing a coherent and powerful program. The point is, while there are many great prospective program elements and partners for any program - if you focus on your authentic intentions and objectives, on the needs of the program, and the needs and capabilities of core partners, the right elements and partners will reveal themselves clearly.

Principle #6: Patience is an indispensable virtue.

Patience is clearly a key ingredient to building relationships, and reflects a sensitivity to and respect for the process of others. On the other hand, identifying real time constraints and honestly communicating them to others (reflecting real urgency) can help to overcome inertia and create a more energized process. Finding the balance between the two is a fine art!

Principle #7: Persistence wins the race, especially the long ones.

Let’s face it. Accomplishing anything worthwhile requires persistence. Persistence, balanced with patience, is paramount to developing an optimally effective program, forging meaningful relationships, and establishing formal alliances.

Principle #8: Commitment to service is essential.

The service you deliver, to all prospective and actual partners, helps to build their confidence in the Program and to engage them with the Program and other Partners. It also helps to reinforce the service nature of the program and imbue the process with this spirit of service.

Principle #9: Mutual benefit is paramount for a successful alliance.

While shared vision, commitment, and intention are key to a successful alliance, the clincher is genuine mutual benefit. Since multiple parties are involved, and each must benefit, all must benefit for the whole to hold together. Understanding this, we are each encouraged to consider the benefit of each other, since the whole is greater than the sum of the parts.

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