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Is it ok to include friends in to my business?

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Kenneth’s Answer

I suggest letting your friends know about ownership and of course the separation between friendship and business. Be clear that any opinion related to the business is strictly business and let it not trickle out to the social aspect of your life.
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Munazza’s Answer

Absolutely - friends who have leadership qualities!
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Kristi’s Answer

It is ok to have friends in your business. However, keep in mind that when when you mix friends with business things can go wrong and damage your relationship.
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Cherelle’s Answer

Hi Reginald,

I think it is personally fine to include your friends in your business rather it be to help you sell merchandise or having them buy the merchandise for you. If they are helping you sell your merchandise then I would suggest to make a business plan so you all can be on the same page and to cause less confusion and mistakes from happening. It can also be a fun and rewarding time to share something that is so personal to you with the people you are closes to. Hope everything turns out fine!
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Ryan’s Answer

I believe that Friends can absolutely be a part of your business. One thing I would recommend and over communicating the boundaries and expectations of their role and responsibilities prior to them starting. This allows for clear lines to be drawn early and you are able to avoid conflict later.
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Rudy’s Answer

Hi Reginald

My point of view based on a relative's experience. He not only included friends but also family in his business.
He struggled for the first 2 years and nearly destroyed his relationships.
The problem was that there were no clear, on paper and formal business roles assigned.
His friends felt entitled to do anything they wanted and in many ways were abusing the relationship to get away with poor work habits.
After 2 years and hiring a business advisor, He was able to create clear and professional roles for everyone and ended up "terminating" some problem people. The business is doing very well now.

My advise, before you add anyone but particularly friends, make sure it is clearly understood that it is a business and professional relationship and there are expectations and responsibilities that need to be met.


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Sheila’s Answer

Hi Reginald:

I feel that it is okay to have friends in your business by setting clear communications, expectations, and solid boundaries. Be mindful that having friends involved in your business when things go wrong it could get murky, relationships and friendships could suffer; especially when you don't agree. I'd speak to an attorney in advance prior to bringing on a friend to make sure I know what I'm getting involved in should the business relationship not work out. I suggest you know the pros and cons beforehand. . . Best of luck to you!

~ Sheila
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Lauren’s Answer

Hi Reginald! I think it is perfectly okay to include friends in your business, just make sure you set clear expectations and everyone is on the same page. It can get messy fairly quickly if there isn't a good balance of work and play, good communication is the best way to run a business and keeping a healthy team. As long as there is mutual respect both ways and clear healthy communication you should be able to have a calm and fun workplace!
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