No relationship is perfect, and that includes a business partnership. FOX News just asked my business partner, Murray Newlands, as well as six other business leaders what the biggest challenges are when considering this unique relationship.
Murray says that it’s always best to partner up rather than taking on the entire monster of creating a company solo. However, getting along isn’t as easy as you think. Before Murray and I founded Due.com, we dipped our toes in this partnership by working together on numerous smaller projects. We began slow and grew together—just like any successful partnership.
Other tips include addressing different management styles and personality differences early on. Some people just clash, while others mesh. Set boundaries, decide commitment levels, and hash out all financial responsibilities well before there’s an issue. Finally, know that there will be disparities when it comes to skills, and that in a great partnership each person will balance the other out.
You won’t be able to find a perfect balance, but strive for as close as you can get. Two great managers that are basically mirror images of one another aren’t going to be beneficial. It’s all about balance.
