Business thinkers across every industry can agree on one thing: It’s hard to succeed without friends. Friendships, in many ways, are a risk in themselves. You’re putting yourself out there, and people can reject you. But that doesn’t mean they’re less important or less valuable to understanding how to plug yourself into your community, business, and success path.

Small businesses have a lot to gain from friendships and community awareness. Not all friendships are a smooth ride, and the same is true for partnerships between businesses — but it can be tremendously rewarding when we associate ourselves with the right people. So, how do we find the “right people”?

No 1. — Get straight to the point about your business.
Don’t get too enamored with the potential partnership opportunity just yet. You want concrete, substantial information about the who, what, and why of your partnering business, and you need to share that same concrete information about yourself.

Remember to stay focused on the targeted goals of the partnership and how you communicate that to customers. Create a road map or guide and make sure your flexibility and outside-the-box thinking doesn’t cloud the message of the partnership.

No 2. — Your partnered business is part of your team. Ask questions and stay informed.
Your partnered business shouldn’t be like the aunt you only talk to over Facebook posts and Thanksgiving dinner. You should do everything you can to make constantly informed decisions when it comes to your partnership; understanding who they are and their values reflects your company values as well.

Starting a new business partnership should involve very clear communication and legal protection for both sides.