3 Things to Know About Going Into Business With a Partner (60-Second Video)

What to consider before teaming up with a partner.

By Diana Falzone May 15, 2019
Conrad Martin

Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

Going into a business with a partner? Here are key things a partnership agreement should have to ensure smooth sailing.

1. Determine how ownership interest will be shared. It’s not always split evenly down the middle, so be sure ownership and authority proportions are stated clearly in the agreement.

Related: Everything You Need to Know About Business Partnerships

2. Establish how decisions will be made. If you own the business 50-50, there’s a possibility of a deadlock. To avoid this, some businesses set up a trusted associate who may own 1 percent of the business and whose vote can break a tie.

3. If one of you wants to withdraw, how will a buyout price be determined? Agree in advance that a neutral third party, like your banker, will find an appraiser to determine a fair price.

Watch more 3 Things to Know videos here

Going into a business with a partner? Here are key things a partnership agreement should have to ensure smooth sailing.

1. Determine how ownership interest will be shared. It’s not always split evenly down the middle, so be sure ownership and authority proportions are stated clearly in the agreement.

Related: Everything You Need to Know About Business Partnerships

2. Establish how decisions will be made. If you own the business 50-50, there’s a possibility of a deadlock. To avoid this, some businesses set up a trusted associate who may own 1 percent of the business and whose vote can break a tie.

3. If one of you wants to withdraw, how will a buyout price be determined? Agree in advance that a neutral third party, like your banker, will find an appraiser to determine a fair price.

Watch more 3 Things to Know videos here

The rest of this article is locked.

Join Entrepreneur+ today for access.

Subscribe Now

Already have an account? Sign In

Diana Falzone

Journalist at Journalist
Diana Falzone is a journalist. She is an anchor for Bold TV. Previously, she was a reporter for Fox News Channel and a talk show host for SiriusXM Radio.

Related Content