Alliances

Sandra J. Paluzzi
The Bead Peddler®

We have all heard  that  no man is an island.  That statement definitely holds true in business.  The more alliances we form with others, the more successful we can be.  To me, an alliance is an informal limited partnership - two companies agree to do one thing together.  Details are worked out and everyone feels they will be rewarded for their efforts.  Alliances can be formed for a number of purposes:  motivation, problem solving, cheaper sources of supplies and more sales.

It can be difficult for someone to stay motivated when they work alone at home.  Families tend not to be a big help here.  An accountability buddy can solve the problem nicely.  The buddy is someone else who works home alone.  The two of you talk at least once a week either on the phone or in person.  You set goals and hold each other accountable for reaching the goals. 

Just as it is good to have someone help you stay motivated, it is also good to have others help you solve problems. As we all know, life is full of little challenges.   It can really help a lot to have others lend a helping hand.  Moms of toddlers may have a hard time getting a block of time to work.  If they exchange baby  sitting days with a friend who also has a small child,  they can  each get one free day to work non-stop.  On a more technical level, another beader may be able to help you get that toggle to lay flat.  Get together with other craftspeople  regularly and you'll find your designs will take on a new life.  No one available locally to help you with your technical/artistic problems?  That's why there are online  bulletin boards and forums.

Of course, business involves buying and selling.  Again, alliances can come in handy.  It is much more fun to drive to a bead show/store with friends than alone.  Some companies offer volume discounts so it makes sense to  pool your buy with your friends.

Alliances really come to the fore in marketing and selling.  You can cross advertise with people who hit the same target market.  Don't forget to run joint flyers or newspaper ads with people who sell flowers for bridal parties.  You may also want to contact resources like bridal consultants to see what it would take for them to use you.  Another alternative is to have home parties with people who sell purses or clothing.  Of course, you can display your goods at a local artisan's show or have a beading demo for a special promotion at a local clothing boutique.  The list of people who sell related, but not competitive, goods seems endless.  But don't forget to form alliances with your direct competitors also.  A local boutique here in Maryland has annual jewelry shows which feature tables full of jewelers, some of which are beaders.  I never fail to buy something .

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