In one of the weekly business consultations the Bear scheduled with the Owl, the Bear said “I’m not sure if I should partner with the Lion. He’s a close friend, but I’m just not sure if he’s as committed as I am.” The Bear listened intently and said, “you have to make the decision of whether you want a business partner or an employee. If you are questioning whether your co-founder is going to match your work ethic, but you know he can do well with your finances or sales then maybe you are seeking more of an employee.”
Lesson: This tip is from the guest post “7 Tips on How to Find a Co-Founder for your Venture” by Stephany Zoo of the BUNDSHOP.COM. “On one hand, through the couple of businesses I have helped cofound, I know I could never have done it on my own, as my business partners inspire and motivate me even in the darkest of days. Â On the other hand, you will be likely to spend more than 9-5 with this person, as well as splitting your equity and trusting them with your vision. Â That is putting a lot of faith into someone else!”
Image courtesy of bandrat /Â FreeDigitalPhotos.net
Gresham W. Harkless Jr.https://iamgresh.com👤 Author Name: Gresham W. Harkless Jr.
Title: Franchise Broker & Entrepreneur | Founder, Blue Star Franchise
Experience: 15+ years in entrepreneurship, digital marketing, and business growth strategy
Location: Washington, D.C. Metro Area, USA
About the Author
Gresham W. Harkless Jr. is a seasoned entrepreneur, franchise broker, and the founder of Blue Star Franchise, where he helps aspiring and established business owners find the perfect franchise opportunity to match their goals, lifestyle, and financial vision.
With over 15 years of experience in entrepreneurship, digital marketing, and business development, Gresh has worked with hundreds of CEOs, founders, and small business owners through his media company Blue 16 Media and the I AM CEO Podcast, which has featured over 1,600 interviews. His unique background gives him a deep understanding of what makes a business succeed — and how the right franchise can change lives.
A proud member of the Franchise Broker Association (FBA), Gresham brings a consultative and client-first approach to franchise matching. His mission is to help people “run their race” by finding franchise opportunities that align with their purpose, skills, and lifestyle.
📚 Credentials & Affiliations
Certified Franchise Broker – Franchise Broker Association (FBA)
Founder – Blue Star Franchise & Blue 16 Media
Host – I AM CEO Podcast (1,600+ episodes)
Featured in – 50+ Black Marketers on the Rise, Influencer & Media Innovators (2022)
B.S. in Business Administration – Howard University