How to Stay True While Working With Others
Collaboration is powerful, but it can also get messy. In this installment of the Problem & Solution Series, we dive into how entrepreneurs can protect their voice when working with clients, partners, and creative collaborators. From setting boundaries to translating ideas into strategy, you’ll learn how to collaborate without losing your unique perspective.
The Problem: Collaboration ≠ Compromise
Whether it’s working with clients, creative partners, or other entrepreneurs, let’s be real: sometimes “collaboration” turns into compromise… and not the healthy kind.
- Clients want a million things at once, and suddenly the brand identity looks like a cluttered garage sale.
- Business partners may push their vision so strongly that yours fades into the background.
- Or worse, you start doubting your own expertise just to “keep the peace.”
If you’re not careful, you end up with a watered-down version of your work that doesn’t represent anyone clearly, least of all you.
The Solution: Don’t Lose Your Voice
The key is to collaborate without losing your voice. In my own work as a website design and marketing consultant, I’ve found some golden rules:
- Set Clear Boundaries Early.
Before you dive in, outline what’s non-negotiable. For me, that’s functionality and user experience; pretty doesn’t mean anything if a website doesn’t work. For you, it might be values, messaging, or style. State it upfront. - Listen, But Don’t Disappear.
Collaboration doesn’t mean being a doormat. Yes, hear your client or partner’s vision, then filter it through your expertise. Your perspective is the reason they brought you in. - Translate Ideas Into Alignment.
Think of yourself as the interpreter. Clients throw out ideas like “make it pop!” or “I want something different!” — your job is to shape those vague desires into a strategy that still reflects your voice and their goals. - Keep Your Voice at the Core.
Whether it’s your design aesthetic, your marketing tone, or your consulting style, anchor everything back to your brand. That’s what creates consistency and confidence.
When collaboration works right, it’s not about shrinking to fit someone else’s vision — it’s about amplifying everyone’s strengths while staying rooted in your own.
And hey, if you want more real talk on business + growth, subscribe to the Problem & Solution Series blog and catch The Jameela Adams Experience podcast every Friday.
