What does Trade Partner even mean?

Did you know that Im a sensitive guy? There are some really little things that get under my skin, one of those things is the term "Trade Partner". Dont tell anyone but whenever I hear people use the term I think "Virtue signaling" and my eyes roll a little.

Not because I dont appreciate the intention behind the term but because the gap between flowery language and the actual relationship dynamics between trade contractors and general contractors is gigantic. Heres a quick quiz: When you think of "Trade Partners" whats the first thing that comes to mind?

• The company name of the trade contractor
• A member of their management team
• A member of the installation crew 

My money says it aint a member of the installation crew. 

Now maybe if the relationship was an actual like for real for real Partnership, this wouldnt be a big deal. And what I mean by "For real For real Partnership" is shared risk and shared reward, as in a shared P&L statement. But we arent in a "for real for real partnership" Most GC / trade relationships revolve around compliance. Meaning if I do what the GC wants, Im a "good trade partner" so good that on the next project we may or may not work together. 

See I told you I was sensitive, but Im not saying the current state of Trade contractor / GC dynamics is doom and gloom. There are some outstanding project teams that run projects in a way that everyone can win and some of those never use the term "trade partner" As a matter of fact when they hear it theyre like "what does that mean"

Which brings me to my point.

It dont matter what you call me, its about how you treat me

Example: My closest friends call me some pretty mean names, and its cool because theyre my friends. Over time the have demonstrated compassion, patience, and care for me. They have contributed to my growth, celebrated my wins, and cautioned me when I was running of course. So what they call me is of little consequence because I know they are invested in me. The way the treat me gives their nick names for me special meaning.

Now imagine a stranger or even an acquaintance calling you "bestie" and running around telling everyone yall go way back, they "knew you when." But this person only hits you up when they want or need something. The dynamics of the relationship make the term of endearment an insult. 

The point is, using flowery language doesnt make the thing better. Calling me a trade partner doesnt mean we have a mutual respect, it doesnt mean collaboration is happening. And calling me a sub doesnt mean you look down on me, or under value me.

So if you are using the term "trade partner" as a flex, get over it we see you.

And if you're wondering what to call me,

just call me sexy😎