Looking for a partner in crime to get your business off the ground? Finding a potential business partner can be a daunting task, but ultimately you want to recruit a financially stable entrepreneur with a great work ethic and a passion for your product. According to business coach and best-selling author Kare Anderson, your partner should be willing and able to invest time (and potentially money) into your venture, and –– most importantly –– should bring a unique skill set to the table.
There’s no point in finding a partner whose talents mimic your own –– instead, you want someone who complements your skill sets and brings something specific to the table. If you’re great with budgeting and financing, seek out someone whose talent is more on the creative side. If you have connections up the wazoo but lack key funding, find a partner with deep pockets who’s just as pumped up about the business as you are.
Just remember, passion isn’t everything. Sure, you want your partner to be enthusiastic and engaged, but they should also have an acute knowledge of the industry. The majority of startups fail, so finding someone who knows as much, or more, than you do about the nuances of your industry is key.
It goes without saying that you should have mutual respect for you partner, but being friends with them before going into business (or developing a friendship with them during the process) is always a boon. A congenial relationship will make you more excited about the work ahead of you, make communication that much simpler, and at the end of the day make your life easier. Plus, who doesn’t want to scheme over a few drinks?
For more tips on finding a suitable partner to promote your business, check out Kare Anderson’s upcoming CreativeLIVE course, Monday, December 9!
Source: Entrepreneur / PBS
