Whether you’re just starting or you’ve been in business for a while, it may be time to consider bringing another person into your business venture.
Starting your own business can be thrilling and terrifying, but having the right business partner will not only increase your chances of success, but it can also make it more enjoyable.
Having a partner in your business can be advantageous if you know how to find the right one and then bring that person on board successfully. However, finding the right business partner takes careful research and planning, so it’s important to know how to find the right person.
This guide will teach you what to look for when searching for the perfect partner.
Let’s get started!
Step #1. Decide on the best business partner for your company
The first step is to understand what kind of business partner might work best for your company.
For example, do you need someone with specific skills such as finance and marketing? Or do you need someone with complementary skills such as product development and sales?
It’s also important to consider whether your ideal partner needs to be involved in the day-to-day operations of your company.
Once you’ve determined this information, it will become easier for you to narrow down the potential candidates.
Step #2. Start with Google
Good partnerships start with research. It may sound daunting, but you might be surprised how quickly Google can help you find the right partner to work with.
How can Google help you to find the right person? For starters, Google can make the whole process easier. All you need to do is enter the keyword ‘business partner’ into Google’s search engine, and it will provide information about how to find one.
You can search for phrases such as business partner and small business help. You can also use Google’s built-in tools to help you start your own company. For instance, you could use Google Drive to create a spreadsheet of potential candidates that could be considered the right fit for your team.
Step #3. Use LinkedIn Search
LinkedIn Search is one of the best ways to find the right business partner. You can use LinkedIn Search to find professionals that share the same interests, skills, and experience as you.
You can filter your search by location and employment status to find the right person for your venture. It’s also a great way to vet potential partners because you can see their history on the site.
If you have specific industries in mind but are not sure where to start with a search, click on Interests in the sidebar navigation menu and then choose from some of these categories: Technology & Internet; Sales & Marketing; Arts, Design & Entertainment; Nonprofits & Philanthropy; Social Media & Web Tools; Small Business Development.
Step #4. Targeted Twitter searches
Many business owners find themselves in need of a partner to help them with the day-to-day operations of the business. To find the right partner, you can do some research on Twitter.
Tweets can show an individual’s personality, goals, and passions and make it easier for you to get to know them before deciding if they are a good fit.
Targeted Twitter searches can help you find someone with similar interests and goals as yourself, so you know your work will not be in vain.
Step #5. Ask people within your network
One of the best ways to find the right business partner is by asking people in your network. If you are connected to someone with experience in the field you are considering, they can help you find a good partner.
In addition, ask anyone with whom you may cross paths during your day who might have some insight into what partnerships are out there and how to find one of them.
Step #6. Attend events and meetups
Attending events and meetups can also help you find the right business partner. You’ll be able to talk to many people in the same field as you, find new contacts, and make friends with potential candidates.
Contacting professionals at conferences and networking events can be another avenue worth exploring when finding partners within your network. Make sure that you keep an open mind at events – talking to everyone is not only polite, but it also gives you access to valuable information about the person’s company or profession.
Moreover, you’ll be able to see what other people are doing within your industry, giving you a better understanding of the market and how you can move forward.
Meetup groups might be helpful for those looking for partners who share their interests and goals. However, if it doesn’t feel like a good fit after attending one event or meetup group, don’t worry and move on to the next one.
Step #7. Reach out directly to potential partners
Reaching out directly to potential partners is a great way to find the right person. In case you don’t have their contact info already, you can easily find it on Google or Leadar.
By reaching out, you can establish a personal connection and get an idea of what they want in a partner. This will help you know if you have the same values and goals and feel confident they would be committed.
Plus, it is always good to have someone on your team who understands your business well enough that they can contribute their ideas and help steer the ship in the right direction.
Start by asking questions about their life, professional experience, and how they might benefit from teaming up with you. For example, ask, “what is your biggest goal?” or “how would our partnership strengthen our company?”
You want someone who shares your values and motivations while also being able to negotiate effectively on your behalf and provide you with guidance when the time comes for decisions. They should also share your leadership style and interests so the business can function smoothly.
Step #8. Run a background check on potential partners
A background check is a critical, yet often overlooked, step before signing on a partner. It’s important to look for any red flags that could make your business more vulnerable.
You can use a people search site to do this by entering their name and a few other key details, like their location, job title, professional skills, social media, company, education, and much more.
From there, you’ll be able to see all of their social profiles and learn more about their work experience.
Wrapping Up!
Finding a business partner can be difficult, but taking your time and finding someone who will share your drive and values is worth it. Remember that you are building a partnership for years, so make sure you choose wisely.
