7 Reasons Why Listening To Business Partners’ Needs Is Key To Long-Term Success

Clear communication matters, especially during the COVID-19 era. Here’s what we’ve learned at Qwick over the past year.

Jamie Baxter, Co-Founder and CEO of Qwick, sits down for a conversation

1. Big problems usually start out small. By paying attention, you can catch issues early.
   Hospitality businesses face big challenges right now, and most of those challenges didn’t start out as “small.” Still, recognizing your partners’ needs early on helps you respond quickly and pivot smartly.
   In the early days of COVID-19, for example, Qwick expanded services to grocery stores and hospitals. We also discounted Qwick services by 50%. That six-month Business Recovery Rate helped our hospitality business partners when they needed it most.
2. Partners respond better when you show a sincere interest in their needs.
   We all want to feel heard and understood. By demonstrating that you care, you’ll build stronger, long-lasting relationships.
   We recognize that COVID-19 has generated real obstacles for Qwick business partners. By responding early with our discounted Business Recovery Rate, we confirmed that we’re here to help — even during difficult times.
3. Communication is as critical to business connections as it is to personal relationships.
   Work isn’t so different than daily life. Whether you’re sharing positive feedback or constructive criticism, listening closely and communicating clearly about needs helps you avoid confusion, clarify expectations and prevent mistakes.
4. Listening builds trust and loyalty.
   Understanding your business partners’ concerns positions you to solve problems more efficiently and effectively. That kind of collaboration builds trust.
   Qwick makes partner feedback a priority. We stay in regular contact with our businesses, and we make it easy for them to text, meet with or talk to our team. Whenever there are questions or concerns, we’re here to listen.
5. Listening opens you to new ideas.
   When partners discuss their needs, it can spark new ideas for bigger, bolder solutions. Close listening and creative thinking also pave the way for healthier partnerships over time.
6. Open conversations drive business forward.
   Strategic conversations can keep us focused on the outcomes that move us forward, while also clarifying what doesn’t work.
7. True partnerships are mutually beneficial. Listening helps you clearly understand the value that each party brings.
   In successful collaborations, each party clearly understands what they stand to gain — and together, partners move beyond their individual short-term goals.
   Qwick takes pride in building long-term, mutually beneficial partnerships. By listening closely, communicating clearly, and building trust, we create value every step of the way.