I remember reading about symbiotic relationships in junior high. On the BioTech FYI Center, symbiotic is defined as “the close association of two different kinds of living organisms where there is benefit to both or where both receive an advantage from the association.”
But, I think you can apply the theory to your career in a much better (and less weird) way.
Here’s an example:
I’m in a “symbiotic” relationship with Heather Huhman. After spending a few months working for her company, Come Recommended, I accepted an internship at a marketing communications firm (which is where my passion is).
But, Heather and I have stayed good friends and often chat online. Since I also am a freelance writer, she gives me great ideas to pitch to editors. She has written several great e-books lately, which relate to several of the stories I have pitched to magazines.
Heather is always willing to share knowledge, whether it’s resume advice for myself or comments for a story I am working on. Her great quotes always help make my soon-to-be published stories even better.
In turn, her generosity of ideas and knowledge can result in good publicity for her company.
What about you? What kind of symbiotic relationships do you have? How have you made them work?
February 8, 2010 | 6:57 pm
Insightful post from an insightful symbiotic partner. Rachel donated her time and talents to build a background for Shelter of Flint’s Twitter page. In return (and in part because we recognize her talent in Web design), we recommend Rachel when we can.
Symbiotic relationships, as Rachel touches on in this post, are all about networking. You can bet the next time someone mentions they’re looking for a bright young marketing professional that I will recommend Rachel.
February 8, 2010 | 10:01 pm
Megan,
I was happy to help since I am from the area. Thanks for reading and commenting!
February 10, 2010 | 4:15 am
Rachel,
Thanks for bringing up such great points! Just because you don’t work for someone anymore doesn’t mean you can’t work together professionally in some aspect. Often times when people leave jobs — for whatever reason — they become so consumed by the new job that they lose all contact with their former co-workers and supervisors. This is so unfortunate.
I am certainly glad I’ve been able to help your budding freelance career, while getting word out about Come Recommended along the way. Looking forward to the two articles we’re already working on together — and hopefully many more to come in the future!
February 10, 2010 | 2:32 pm
Thanks Heather!! I’m glad we’ve stayed connected (social media obviously helps!!).