What should religious organizations watch out for when partnering or working with other businesses?
This is an interesting one. "Suspicion". From my experience as a Pastor and I am sorry to say this, when business wants to partner with a church, the test is motive. What's in it for them and businesses sees the church as an avenue to generate additional revenue rather working to benefit the congregants. I partnered with a local business sometime ago, had several meetings etc. and started promoting the organization with the church for a 10% discount on shipping, only to be told a few months later that they can no longer offer the discount. When I tried to ship some products overseas for poor children, the time it took to get approval of the 10% was not worth it. I spent $300.00 in wasted time to get $17.00 savings. I was very embarrassed and has since shy away from such ventures because of "suspicion". What's in it for me. If a business is going to partner with the church for the benefit of the church as the primary motive while generating additional revenue, I am for it. But don't throw a curve ball after you start getting the business.
Answers (1-10)
Great answer. My church does not participate with local business. We might receive a gift card to raffle at our fund raiser but that is it.
I agree with Peggy Elliott make sure the business is equally yoked with the ministry. It appears in your message that you were not equally yoked and they were not truly in it for the betterment of the members. If they were going to give a 10% discount to the members and to the ministry but didn't live up to their word be thankful you found out early. If they would have done what they said they were going to do, they would have found out you can't out give God!
I am sorry that happened to you. You already have your answer though. Motive. Check reviews, not only on their work BUT WAY MORE IMPORTANTLY is do they do as much community and non profit work as possible? Are the owners available to help you? Can community members attest to who they really are? I may just be a moving company but i can guarantee that we are helping people daily and making a huge difference in our clients lives, if they know it or not. Our world is currupt and greedy in general as you alreafy know. Look for those like us that are trying with all we have to make the world a better place! My best wishes are sent to you☆
Make sure the organization is in it for the greater good and not just for themselves to profit!
Always begin in prayer and discernment. Christ will lead you in the direction necessary if it is to happen. Some 'sketchy' people from the outside can become amazing folks who partner with the church. I personally love people as Christ sees them so I look to see how the relationship can develop before doing business in any way. Many have said that motive is key - that is correct. However, be sure to know that sometimes it's an opportunity to bring Christ toward those people in an incredible way. Instead of a transaction, it becomes transformation!
As in most endeavors, entering into a business relationship implies trust and agreement on both sides. I don't know that there is anything to "watch out" for, that would be any different that any other entity doing business with another. In most cases, you are looking for the best deal and want to work with people who you feel that values and ideology is aligned. Have conversations up front that relays that message to the company and it's representatives, what your expectations are as a business and make sure that any contract you sign, reflects your conversation. Most people get taken advantage of, because they fail to research, investigate, and have these conversations, to make sure that you are a good fit. Money is not always the driver for your business and discounts are not always what they seem. A good relationship, where both businesses are on the same page, will be a lasting relationship and an opening to share much more than business in the future.
In a religious organization help thy brother is the main objective. In a business organization profit is the main objective. However it is not difficult to merge both if the business understands social responsibility. I have come to many of them and both have made a dent on helping others. Not all businesses are crooked.
I do believe that motivation is a factor, but it is also important to get to know that business and what it stands for. Do the owners or the corporation have integrity that you would want to be associated with? If there are some questionable practices, do you want your organization to be caught up in the conversation?
We have had this experience. Yes, I agree you have to ask specific questions to ensure the integrity of the buisness you are choosing. If they can't give specific answers don't be afraid to walk away and get a second quote. It protects you in many ways. You won't have to get upset, and hopefully you get it done the right way the first time. I will also say prayer should be your first line of defense.
Based on past experience, I strongly suggest that you check to ensure that your values are in alignment with one another. Do this immediately. If your ministry is not in alignment with a business, people, when they hear about the partnership will question your honesty, their willingness to trust or support your ministry projects will significantly decrease or cease altogether.