If the world is governed by rules and standards that guide how we protect the values of human dignity, equality, and freedom, I wondered if that could be applied in a professional and commercial context. Given that establishing and maintaining healthy and mutually beneficial business relationships and partnerships are essential to survival in the modern complex business environment. Emphasizing the nature of the relationship being healthy to make it sustainable and mutually beneficial.
Here is a list of 10 basic rights of business relationships and partnerships to consider when starting and sustaining a long-term partnership.
1. The right to healthy communication
Effective communication is the foundation of any successful partnership. It facilitates understanding and the alignment of shared goals and expectations. Every party involved has the right to transparent and timely communication.
2. The right to be respected.
Respect is non-negotiable in professional interaction. Everyone deserves to be treated with dignity, consideration, and professionalism – irrespective of differences in opinion, perspective, or background.
3. The right to transparency
Being open, honest, and direct may be difficult or uncomfortable for some but it is the secret of building trust with another, especially in business partnerships. Transparency creates accountability and minimizes the risk of misunderstandings or misinterpretations. Parties have the right to access accurate and relevant information that is necessary for informed decision-making.
4. The right to fairness and equality
Fairness and equality ensure impartiality and stability in business dealings. All parties should be allowed fair and equal treatment that is appropriate to their contributions and commitments.
5. The right to collaboration
Partnerships thrive when stakeholders actively engage in collaborative efforts, leveraging collective expertise and resources to achieve common objectives. Collaboration enriches relationships, interaction, and creativity. Everyone has the right to collaborate within and without the business partnership.
6. The right to privacy
Privacy is sacrosanct in business relationships. Confidential information shared within the confines of the partnership must be safeguarded and respected, reinforcing a culture of trust and confidentiality.
7. The right to accountability
Accountability instills a sense of responsibility and ownership. Each party should uphold their commitments and obligations, demonstrating integrity and reliability in their actions and decisions. Laying the foundation for progress.
8. The right to flexibility
Flexibility allows for adaptability and resilience in the face of change. Business relationships should be characterised by a willingness to accommodate evolving needs, challenges, and opportunities.
9. The right to constructive feedback
Constructive feedback is indispensable for growth and improvement. Parties have the right to receive feedback in a constructive and respectful manner. This increases continuous improvement and progress.
10. The right to dissolve the business relationship.
While dissolution may be regrettable, it should be approached with professionalism and mutual respect. Parties reserve the right to terminate or dissolve a business relationship or partnership if it no longer serves their best interest or it does not align with their strategic objectives.
This list of 10 basic rights of business partnership and relationships is merely the beginning of a longer strategy to begin and sustain a healthy business relationship. It requires time, effort, and careful consideration about how we engage each other on a professional level. Generally, to manage effective communication and engagement, we must first take responsibility for our own role in interactions and manage our own boundaries and values. This is an indispensable factor of healthy relationships irrespective of the context. It then it makes it easier to embody the rights I have presented in this article.
Feel free to share any comments or opinions about this topic in the comment section or directly.
