Final answer:
The first step in building strategic alliances is 'dating,' which involves exploring potential collaboration with partners who align with one's goals and values, and is primarily about trust-building and relationship development.
Step-by-step explanation:
The first step in building strategic alliances is often referred to as dating. This phase involves identifying potential partners who share similar goals and values, and it is marked by informal meetings and discussions to explore the possibility of collaboration.
In this context, 'dating' does not involve negotiating terms or signing contracts; it is about building relationships, trust, and understanding each other's strengths and contributions to a potential alliance.
Effective communication and interpersonal skills are crucial in the dating phase of building an alliance, as they help establish a strong foundation of trust. This trust is necessary for partners to move forward with negotiations, which eventually could lead to the signing of a formal agreement and implementing the partnership.