Rock Ledge Resources > Marlys Tamte > Representative Project - Resolution of Business Partner Issues

Resolution of Business Partner Issues

Business Challenge

The owners of a successful and fast-growing small business had reached an impasse. They were unable to agree on important decisions, causing them to miss opportunities. Their lack of communication was polarizing employees, who had divided into factions, reducing productivity to the point that clients suspected the company was having serious problems.

Solution

Meeting individually with the partners and employees, a Rock Ledge Resources principal identified why the one-time friends had become distant and uncooperative. Personal styles, cultural norms, difficult situations and differences in values had slowly built barriers, and simple team-building exercises had only exacerbated the animosity. The principal gradually broke down the barriers, compelled partners to see how they were contributing to the problems, helped them to understand other partners' perspectives, and helped them confront secrets that had undermined respect and authority.

Results

With the partners now talking frankly and respectfully with each other, the principal helped the partners work together on goals for the company and their partnership.

Relationships: Marlys Tamte | Employee-Focused | Services