Dr Doug Answers YOUR Email
By Doug Hirschhorn, Ph.D.
Luke J of “Good Pies” asks: I have an idea for a company and I really believe in it. I’ve gone into business with several friends but I feel like I’m the only one who really believes my company can transform into an international success. How do I spread my enthusiasm throughout all levels of my small company?
Dr. Doug Answers:
Luke,
The core of your question has to do with your vision and finding out who is on board with you.
My advice, be true to your core, your vision and if that means severing ties, then do it. You need to ask yourself what sacrifices are you really willing to make to push your idea forward?
Because, in this case, the personal cost may be tremendous and that is why it is rarely a good idea to go into business with friends. If you are lucky, you may be able to explain it to them that this is what you believe and what path you must take. You respect that they don't share the same vision but they need to respect that you still plan on moving ahead in that direction. That you value their friendship and don't want to lose it.
If they are business people, they will see it from a business point of view and not take it personal.
If they do take it personal, you may, unfortunately, be losing some friends - which is sad but that is their choice, not yours.
Do not be afraid to stand up for what you believe especially when it is most difficult to do so. Ignoring this type of problem does not make it go away, and it will reappear down the road - you can bet on it.
The hard truth is you are much better off finding out now that your partners are not on the same page as you...rather than finding out later.
Dr. Doug
Questions? Comments? BigIdeaCES@CNBC.com