When I started TAC(t), I wanted to create something primed for collaboration. I am a Jane-of-All-Trades and I wanted to work with those who are similar. I created a collective model agency, which means I do not have any employees on payroll. Rather, I have a network of well-vetted creative business owners I work with when a client’s needs require it. These individuals own businesses complimentary to TAC(t), making the relationship mutually beneficial. They get the work, I get the talent, and the client gets a high quality service and/or product.

Working with these creative partners, I’ve learned a thing or two about collaboration. Here are some common etiquette checkpoints:

When choosing to collaborate with another business owner, always make sure your brands share the same values.

It’s not a ‘fun’ conversation to have, but it can save a lot of time and headache down the road. When interviewing a potential creative partner, ask them about their business values, their mission, and their big ‘why.’ Then, take some time to digest the conversation. Depending on the size of the project and the involvement of the collaborator, it may take a few days to think it over. If it’s the right fit, this collaborator will respect your questions and the time to make the right decision.

In the same vein, I highly recommend both parties sign a memorandum of understanding (MOU). This is a formal agreement between the parties involved in the scope of work. I created one for my clients and have it attached to every one of my proposals. This ensures both parties are in agreement of the expectations before getting started.

Note: MOU are not legally binding, but they do carry a degree of seriousness and mutual respect.

Make sure to communicate: set deadlines & expectations

Sometimes one party is more diligent than the other to hold up their end of the deal, while the other just goes with the flow. There is nothing wrong with either workflow, but setting up timelines and expectations upfront will help the collaboration to succeed for everyone involved.

Be loyal to your collaboration partner.

At all costs, do NOT attempt the same partnership with another similar collaborator while in the middle of an agreement with a different collaborator. This is disrespectful to everyone, including yourself. It makes for a poor reputation and creates a likelihood other collaborators will not want to work with you in the future. It can also create confusion for your customers/followers and can even discredit you, not the collaborator.

Do your part.

Make sure to take the collaboration to heart and hold up your end of the bargain. If during the collaboration things start to go awry, finish your end of the deal and then move on politely once it has ended.

do not set your expectations too high.

Take baby steps and celebrate small wins! Magic doesn’t always happen right away and may take some time. Be hopeful and give things a fair chance to succeed.

Remember: You and your collaborator are working toward a common goal.

Get excited, have a giving attitude, manage the expectations and celebrate wins together! Some of the best moments can arrive through collaboration. Remember that working toward a common goal brings out purpose, passion, and drive between you both!