Benefits of Finding a “Venture Spouse”?
Entrepreneurs often ask themselves: “How do I find someone who has the skills to complement my weaknesses? Someone who simultaneously depicts the vision of my venture and can help me grow?” Its ok. You are not alone.
Here’s how to do it. Self-reflect. Outsource. Network. Firstly, start with self- reflection — identify your strengths and understand your weaknesses. Secondly, understand that you are not able to do everything by yourself- realize it’s time to outsource. Thirdly, how do you find someone to help in these cases? Network. Last but not least, meet your business counterpart, and take your business to where you envisioned it.
Who are you looking for?
Fortunately for you, there are at least six billion (I took out babies, they’re no help in this case) other souls out there that could be the one. You can find yourself a partner in crime, or just a business partner. Do what you will. How do we identify these people and know when they come along?
Venture Spouse
The concept of a “venture spouse” refers to someone who complements your weaker qualities and helps compensate for what you lack. Think of it more along the lines of a business counterpart. These people are out there and can be very helpful in getting you to that next step in your venture and profession. We all want to know how we can find the yin to our yang. It may not be easy but it certainly is possible.
I recently attended an event with a local business man, in this talk he shared various lessons he learned from his 20 years of entrepreneurship. One point he made was to live every day with a possibility mindset, put yourself out there. You never know who could be listening. That business counterpart could be two or three introductions away.
Networking
Now how do we get these introductions? Well, the ability to network is probably one of the most important traits to possess in today’s age of business. Be it entrepreneurs or anyone who works within a professional environment. The ability to have somebody who can refer you and vouch for you is immensely beneficial.
There are a lot of tools to make connections, especially for those less gifted in putting themselves out into a bunch of awkward social interactions. These platforms: LinkedIn, Makerbase, LunchMeet, Xing and Plato, to name just a few, are a convenient way to grow and develop a social network with fellow professionals. Not to mention exhibit one’s accomplishments and skill sets. Although, research shows that personal introductions carry higher levels of respect and intimacy. Social media is a beneficial way to create connections and contacts. For those whose skill set lies on the ground- where meeting and greeting new people is a natural joy- count yourself lucky.
The Net Net
Put yourself out there. Tell them what you are looking for. It takes one referral or one introduction, and before you know it you are one step closer to the full expansion of your venture. Put a ring on that venture spouse!
