Part 1: From Solo Work to Team Collaboration
“The more helpers, the better the work” — this is my recent realization. As my customer base grows, managing the online store alone has become overwhelming. Now I need reliable partners, especially those who can assist with online sales. Two key candidates are in my plan.
Both have provided crucial support during my entrepreneurial journey, and their current situations make them ideal collaborators. Below are their stories.
Part 2: First Partner — Moxibustion Expert Xuanxuan
Our story began last winter when I first launched my Alibaba store. Back then, my product range was limited, and most clients were offline. Xuanxuan was organizing a WeChat group purchase for moxibustion sticks from a factory in Nanyang, Henan.
• Building Trust
Though the factory offered competitive wholesale prices, Xuanxuan hesitated. During her online research, she stumbled upon my store. Despite my higher pricing, she contacted me via Alibaba’s messaging tool. Later, she sent a group member living near my workshop for an onsite inspection. Based on the authenticity report, Xuanxuan decided to place a trial order.
• From Client to Partner
After initial transactions, Xuanxuan not only gave product feedback but also advised me to enable online payments to build credibility. As users experienced positive results, she began recommending my products to friends, who trusted her judgment implicitly. This revealed Xuanxuan’s unique strengths — her responsibility, expertise, and sincerity earned widespread trust.
• Shared Vision Drives Partnership
Due to health issues, Xuanxuan studied Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and moxibustion while recovering at home. Our similar journeys (both improving health through self-care) created common ground. Now a moxibustion specialist, she can accurately assess product quality. Unlike profit-driven agents, Xuanxuan truly understands my mission to promote TCM wellness, making her the perfect partner.
Collaboration Model:
Xuanxuan handles sales within her social circle
Earns commissions based on sales volume
Shares customer service responsibilities
Jointly builds brand influence
Part 3: Second Partner — Logistics Specialist Shanren
This partner is my elementary school classmate who now runs “Shanren Specialties,” a Taobao store selling Suizhou local products and herbs. Though less knowledgeable about moxibustion, he offers three key advantages:
Geographic Advantage: His store is closer to my factory for efficient restocking
Logistics Network: As a Zhongtong Express agent, he ensures cost-effective and timely deliveries
Operational Expertise: Built a reputable store through honest business practices
Collaboration Basis:
• Already sells my moxibustion products with my support
• Excels at order fulfillment and practical tasks
• Maintains service continuity when I’m unavailable
• Complementary roles: I focus on R&D, he handles logistics
Part 4: Partnership Plan & Brand Development
I’ll finalize collaboration details with both partners and display their contact info on my store homepage. This division of labor allows:
• Efficient order distribution
• Uninterrupted customer service
• More time for product innovation
• Focused quality improvement
Moving forward, I’ll continue sharing moxibustion wellness knowledge while expanding access to premium TCM products through this innovative partnership model. Team collaboration not only scales operations but also spreads traditional healing wisdom to those in need.