Starting a business is far from easy. The question of being a partner quickly arises, and when your partner has complementary qualities, it’s natural to wonder whether you should start a business together.
I’m thinking of Marilou from 3 fois par jour, Mahée Paiement and her perfume and handbag company, or Anne Martel from Element AI in the technology sector. They all set up their businesses with their spouses. I chose to set up my business alone –Bazooka-, but it’s a fact that many women go into business with the person who shares their life. On the face of it, it seems a perilous situation. I wanted to know the dos and don’ts of starting a business with your partner. Here’s some advice.
I met Erin Bury, co-founder of WillFul, a web application that makes legal documents such as wills accessible and affordable. We were at the finals of one of Quebec’s largest technology incubators, FounderFuel, where she was part of the 2019 cohort. She too has gone into business with her life partner.
Here are a few tips to help you get on as well as possible with your partner.
Tip 1: Each to his or her own job
Erin and her husband have very different jobs. They both take care of their own jobs. They both have decision-making power in the company. So there’s not much room for conflict. It’s simple and healthy.
Tip 2: Work on communication
Communication is a big part of the success of their partnership. They don’t hesitate to discuss any problems that may arise. They try to be transparent with each other, and leave emotions aside as much as possible.
Tip 3: Talk about things other than work
Erin reminds us how important it is to talk about things other than work at home. It’s tempting to bring work-related issues home, but it’s important to take a break.
Tip 4: Have self-confidence
Finally, she stresses the importance of believing in yourself and in the value you bring to the company you co-found. It’s much easier to express yourself and gain respect as a co-founder when you believe in it strongly. If you have confidence in yourself, your partner will have confidence in you too, and will therefore give you the place you deserve. Prior to Willful, Erin managed a technology communications agency for many years. She has developed highly specialized skills in management, communications and strategy. These experiences enable her to contribute to her company to its full potential.
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