So, you’re on the hunt for new business opportunities. You’ve got plenty of competitors breathing down your neck, and clients searching for someone who does what you do. The big question is, why should they choose you? And, perhaps more importantly, why should you choose to work with them?

In this cutthroat world of commerce, where options abound and choices are aplenty, you might think that skills and services alone are enough to seal the deal. But hang on, because there’s something even more vital at play here: culture fit.

Picture this: you’re on a first date. The chemistry is buzzing, the conversation is flowing, and you’re thinking, “Hey, this could be the one!” But then, disaster strikes! The car breaks down in the middle of nowhere, and you’re both stranded with no one but each other to rely on. Will they roll up their sleeves and get their hands dirty, or will they leave you high and dry?

Business relationships are no different. When the going gets tough and challenges come knocking, it’s culture fit that makes or breaks the relationship. That’s why when you’re scouting for new businesses, there’s one criteria that reigns supreme, culture fit.

Culture fit is all about your story and their story. It’s about understanding why they do what they do, and more importantly, why you do what you do. Think of it as the glue that holds the relationship together, the shared purpose, mission, vision, values, goals and aspirations that make you and your potential business partner click.

Imagine this scenario: you’re a coffee connoisseur, passionately dedicated to delivering the finest brews known to humanity. Now, let’s say you’re approached by a potential client who’s all about quantity over quality, slinging instant coffee with reckless abandon. Do you really think this relationship will last? It’s like trying to mix oil and water, it’s a recipe for disaster.

But when you find that perfect match, it’s like finding a winning lottery ticket in your old jeans pocket. Your cultures align and you become an unstoppable force. That’s why, when exploring new business opportunities, culture fit should be at the forefront of your mind.

How do you assess cultural fit? 

First off, do your homework. Investigate their story and their manifesto. This will give you a glimpse into their soul, a sneak look into what makes them tick.

Next, look inward and examine your own. What drives you? What gets you out of bed in the morning? Understanding your own culture is essential to finding that perfect fit. It’s like putting together a puzzle. You need to know what piece you are before you can find the right one to complete the picture.

Finally, don’t be afraid to ask tough questions during the process. At the end of most pitches, the potential client will often ask “Is there anything else you would like to know?” Dig deep and uncover the nitty-gritty details that truly matter. Ask about their team dynamics, and how they handle challenges. 

And remember, and we know that in the current economic times, it’s very hard to do. Don’t chase the money and look to write the business at any cost. If there are unanswered questions and alarm bells ringing, there is a very, very good chance that if you chase the money, It will end up costing you a lot more money in the long run. 

Co Contributor  – David Eccles
Image – Matt Hudson @Unsplash