Running a business as a sole proprietor can be challenging in a number of ways. From getting the inventory together to managing employees, filing taxes and marketing, you just cannot be an expert at everything. As such, it makes perfect sense to team up with someone who can complement your capabilities. And this is where business partnership comes in.
With the right business partner, you can pull your resources and capabilities together and take your venture to greater heights. Unfortunately, you cannot get into a business partnership with anyone. Here are two questions that can help you find the right partner for your business.
Can you trust them?
Trust is the cornerstone of any partnership – business or otherwise. You are looking for someone you will be sharing sensitive business information with. Additionally, you will be looking up to them to act in the best interest of the business while upholding their end of the partnership agreement.
For these and other reasons, you want a business partner who is honest and reliable. A potential partner with a history of short-changing previous partners would definitely be a wrong fit for you.
Do you share your vision of the business?
You want to be certain that the individual you are hoping to partner with has the same business philosophy, vision and goals as you.
Without this, you will have a difficult time making joint decisions. Here are some of the questions you might want to ask regarding their vision:
- Are they passionate about the business?
- Do they have the same values and work ethics as you do?
- What is their reputation like?
There is strength in numbers. Find out how you can safeguard your rights and interests while getting into a business partnership.