The Leadership Insider network is an online community where the most thoughtful and influential people in business contribute answers to timely questions about careers and leadership. Today’s answer to the question “What do you look for in the ideal business partner?” is by Paul Cameron, CEO of Booktrack.
Here are my top four rules to find the ideal businesses partner for a tech start–up:
They must be completely dedicated to the company
No part-timers. Ever. Think like the Vikings — burn the boat at the shore so there is no turning back. Never have a back-up plan. The tech world is full of part-time advisors/helpers looking for a gig. But you really want someone who doesn’t mind losing sleep at night in order to help build your company.
They have to be fun
You are going to spend a lot of time with this person. If you cannot enjoy the ride, why bother? Make sure you can celebrate the small (and big) successes with them.
See also: This is what entrepreneurs can do to be more like Google’s Page and Brin
They must have skills you don’t
This one sounds obvious, but we often gravitate to people with similar skill sets. Bringing different skills to the table maximizes resources and also helps with delineating responsibilities. As your team grows, this diversity of skills also ensures that you have people who can lead each team.
They must share the dream
Running an early stage business is no easy feat. Your partner must have unwavering belief in what you are creating, for the greater good or higher purpose. It is only with this belief that during those dark times (and you will have them) you will survive and keep moving forward.
Read all responses to the Leadership Insider question: What do you look for in the ideal business partner?
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