Sis, Is This Your Business Soulmate? 7 Questions to Ask Before Partnering Up
Sis, stepping into a business partnership is no small thing. It’s a lot like marriage—you don’t just tie the knot with anyone. You need your business soulmate or bestie, someone who aligns with your vision, drive, and values. This decision can make or break an entrepreneurial venture, so let’s get serious about it!
Before signing that dotted line, here are seven essential questions every Black woman entrepreneur should ask herself.
1. Do You Share the Same Vision and Values for the Business?
When my sistah and I opened our nail salon, our visions couldn’t have been more different. She wanted an intimate, boutique-style space for loyal clients. I dreamed of a franchised spa empire for goddesses everywhere. While we loved and respected each other, the split was inevitable because our vision and goals didn’t align.
Before you partner up, get crystal clear about the endgame. Do you both see the same finish line? If one of you prioritizes mass growth and the other values a stable and boutique-size venture, you’ll be pulling the business in opposite directions. Alignment here is non-negotiable, sis.
➡️ Speaking of vision, have you mapped out your own growth as a CEO? Check out Grow Into the Boss Who Wins: A Professional Development Plan for Black Women Entrepreneurs for strategies on stepping fully into your power. Sistahbiz members, be sure to log in to the Suite and join the Envision Growth workgroup.
2. Do You Share the Same Work Ethic and Drive?
It’s one thing to dream big, but it’s another to put in the grind. Business partnerships thrive when both parties are equally invested in the hustle. Observe your potential partner’s work habits. Are they consistent, reliable, and committed to deadlines?
Imagine carrying the weight of the business solo because your partner clocks out at 3 PM while you’re burning the midnight oil. That imbalance leads to stress, resentment, and burnout. Make sure your drives match before you move forward. Now, you may decide that one person is a more silent and inactive partner and that’s ok too. The point is to be clear on each partner’s capacity, time limitations and contributions early on.
3. Do Your Skills Complement Each Other?
A great partnership isn’t about finding your twin—it’s about finding someone whose strengths fill in your gaps. Think of the main areas your business needs: strategic planning, marketing, finance, operations, and customer service. Decide how the two of you can split and share specific areas of the business.
For example, if you’re a marketing maven but not so great with finances, a partner who’s a financial whiz could be the perfect complement. Divide responsibilities fairly, and make sure the workload doesn’t fall disproportionately on one person – unless that is agreed upon from the outset. A clear, written agreement about roles and expectations can save you a world of trouble later.
➡️ Not sure what your strengths are? Tools like CliftonStrengths (StrengthsFinder) can help you understand your work style and find a partner who complements your skills.
4. Can You Communicate Easily and Effectively?
Communication is the backbone of any relationship. If every conversation with your potential partner feels like a struggle—confusing, tense, or unproductive—imagine trying to plan a product launch or tackle a crisis together.
Great partners can discuss, debate, and decide without drama. If communication feels natural and effective, that’s a green light. If not, pause and reconsider.
5. Can Your Partner Pull Their Weight?
Let’s be real, Sis. If you have to micromanage, redo their work, or pick up their slack, they’re not a partner—they’re a liability. A true partner shares the workload and the leadership responsibilities.
While life happens and you may need to step in during tough times, this should be the exception, not the norm. A partnership is about teamwork, and both sides need to show up and deliver.
6. Do They Have a Problem-Solving Mindset?
Challenges and conflicts are inevitable in business. The question isn’t if you’ll face them but how you’ll handle them together. Does your potential partner have a cool head under pressure? Are they willing to work through tough situations constructively?
Partnerships that thrive are built on mutual respect and a shared commitment to overcoming obstacles. Be sure your partner is ready to roll up their sleeves when the going gets tough.
7. Do They Answer These Questions the Same Way?
The ultimate litmus test: Sit down with your potential partner and discuss these questions openly. If your answers align, congratulations—you may have found your business soulmate! If not, don’t ignore the red flags.
Pro Tips for a Strong Partnership
💼 Draft a Legal Partnership Agreement – Protect yourselves and the business by outlining roles, responsibilities, profit-sharing, and exit strategies in writing.
📄 Write Clear Position Descriptions – Avoid ambiguity by defining who’s responsible for what.
🔄 Revisit Agreements Regularly – Businesses evolve, and so should your partnership terms.
📝 Take Personality Assessments – Tools like CliftonStrengths or Myers-Briggs can help you understand each other’s working styles.
📊 Test the Waters First – Before committing, work on a small project together to see how well you collaborate.
👩🏾💻 Hire a Business Coach – A coach can provide guidance and help you strengthen your partnership foundation.
Sis, finding the right partner takes time and intentionality, but when you get it right, it’s magic. Partnerships can open doors to growth, innovation, and shared success. Take these steps seriously and set yourself up for a thriving business relationship.
💡 Ready to take the next step in your business growth? Start by strengthening your skills and mindset with Grow Into the Boss Who Wins, a professional development guide designed just for Black women entrepreneurs.
And don’t forget to stay connected! The Sistahbiz app gives you access to coaching, community, and resources to help you thrive. Download it today and start tapping into the power of a supportive business network.