Partnerships are something big brands do really well and ultimately benefit well from. For example, look at how Nike and Apple have worked together or how BEATS headphone help Apple boost its user experience with integrated Apple technology.
Also, this goes for small businesses that are ready to grow. Partnering with other local businesses where there can be a mutual benefit for all makes a lot of sense and can certainly help each other's brands grow organically; it makes good business sense.
That's why I've started building business partnerships with local entrepreneurs and SMEs in my local area. And it's proving to be a hit.
I call it my "Showstopper" offer aimed at small companies local to me. The offer allows them to unitised my services once a month, on a six-month rolling contract agreement with a knockdown price to help them promote and market their businesses.
My initial aim was to partner with six companies in my area, and I've nearly reached my manageable quota. Still, I have also now attracted enquiries from outside of my local area, so there's more scope to advance my services elsewhere. This needs a little further consideration, and it's something that I'm currently revising.
One of these local partnerships is with business owner Mandy Errington, who runs a well-established women's fashion boutique @djvboutique https://djvboutique.co.uk.
For me, this is one of the great benefits of working commercially; each commission is entirely different from my last shoot and will be again for my next upcoming shoot.
I've always loved producing editorial fashion shoots, and it was lovely for my assistant David and me to challenge ourselves regarding different photographic scenarios. Thinking about which lights and how many to use in lighting certain parts of the restaurant while focusing on clothes, models, etc.
As a small business owner, it's easy to get caught up in your business, falling into the same routines and having the same 'big-picture' strategy talks over and over. This is especially true if you work with a small team or alone. Partnering with another local business is a great way to get fresh ideas off the ground, along with the courage you need to take a risk that can help both companies reach the next level.
This type of partnership can be both short - or long-term. For example, both businesses can take turns hosting monthly brainstorming sessions. Or better yet, we can set up quarterly meetings where we talk through marketing ideas, give feedback, plan the next stage or put together a marketing plan of action for each of our businesses.
It's all about fostering creativity and innovation and getting more bang for your buck!
Are you ready to partner up with another business, one that can help you grow in the right direction?
I'm still looking for a couple more local businesses in Suffolk to fill my roster, so if you fancy having your own personal, commercial photographer on hand once a month for your business, then get in touch, but be quick!
#marketing #creativity #brandingphotography
