An entrepreneur’s greatest asset is his or her partnerships. For obvious reasons, partnerships increase your target audience, bolster your reputation and share resources. But, partnerships also have the ability to make a business successful simply by linking two skill sets that otherwise cannot stand alone.
Capitol Media Solutions is a great example of balanced leadership from multi-generational business partners. JT Hroncich and Jason Morrison are proof positive of what can happen when business partners of different generations come together. Each draws on the others strengths, thus creating a business that is technologically savvy, creative, and grounded in reality. Think about how many businesses are called So and So & Sons. The elders have the business tradition and knowledge, and the younger generation has the energy, perspective and innovation for expansion.
Another more universal example is the extrovert and the introvert. Did you know Cher used to be shy, and it was Sonny who prompted her into the spotlight? My favorite band, They Might Be Giants is another music duo, combining the multi-talented, focused John Linnell with the vibrant, creative and sometimes politically outspoken John Flansburgh. Linnell sings all my favorite songs but I doubt I would have ever heard of them if Flansburgh hadn’t been behind the promotions.
It’s silly to think as an entrepreneur you’re going to play both sides of the tennis court. Whatever you lack, be it wisdom, innovation, marketing, production or creativity, seek it in a business partner, believe in each other and complete each other. Don’t try to be what you are not, just find your other half.