How Aussie Entrepreneurs Find the Right Partner – Nathan Baws

Introduction

In the ever-changing world of Aussie entrepreneurship, finding the right business partner can be the single biggest advantage you give yourself. It’s not just about sharing a load—it’s about complementing strengths, offsetting weaknesses, and driving each other forward. Think of it like surfing with a mate who can read the waves better than you—it makes all the difference.

While most people take the standard route—posting jobs, scanning CVs, setting up interviews—these methods can fall flat for entrepreneurs looking to build something unique. What if there was a smarter, more strategic (and a bit wild) way to find your ideal partner?

Nathan Baws, a business coach known for his unconventional take on success, has helped countless Aussie entrepreneurs find their footing—and their people. Drawing from his playbook, this guide breaks down practical, creative, and unexpected ways to connect with your perfect business partner.

The Goldilocks Zone: Find the Right Fit, Not a Clone

Many budding business owners in Australia make the classic mistake of finding someone too similar. You need a partner who complements you—not mirrors you. It’s like choosing a surfboard: one size doesn’t fit all. If you’re a dreamer, find a doer. If you’re analytical, team up with a visionary.

The best partnerships sit in the “Goldilocks zone”: not too alike, not too different. Strike the right balance, and you’ll create a team that works through friction and thrives under pressure.

Focus on Traits, Not Just Skills

In the early stages, don’t obsess over resumes or fancy degrees. You can teach someone how to use a spreadsheet, but you can’t teach them resilience or integrity. When you’re building something from scratch, look for these key traits:

• Resilience: The startup journey is rough. You need someone who won’t jump ship.
• Clear Communicator: Open and honest discussions should come naturally.
• Action-Oriented: You dream, they execute. Or vice versa. It’s the perfect mix.

Nathan Baws often says, Character keeps the business running when the money’s not. And that rings true for many Aussie startups.

Unexpected Places to Find Your Business Partner

Forget traditional hiring websites—some of the best partnerships are born in the most unexpected places. Aussie entrepreneurs are getting creative:

• Industry Events & Meetups: Whether it’s a fintech expo in Sydney or a sustainability summit in Melbourne, these events are perfect for meeting passionate peers.
• Facebook Groups & Online Forums: Jump into niche Aussie communities where business ideas are flying around.
• Co-Working Hubs: Places like WeWork or Spacecubed are filled with entrepreneurial energy and potential collaborators.
• Improvisation Classes or Toastmasters: These places foster adaptability, communication, and confidence—gold traits in a future partner.

Vision and Values: The Deal Breakers

Before you go full throttle into business together, pause and align on these two must-haves:

• Shared Vision: Are you both heading in the same direction long-term?
• Core Values: Things like honesty, integrity, and commitment can’t be compromised.

In Nathan Baws’ experience, misalignment here has derailed even the most talented duos.

The Trial Run: Test Before You Commit

Instead of locking in a formal agreement straight away, do a test run. Start a joint project, launch a pop-up, or co-host a webinar. This helps you:

• See how you collaborate
• Understand your different work rhythms
• Navigate challenges without pressure

Nail the Communication Early On

Effective communication builds trust, reduces misunderstandings, and strengthens bonds. For Aussie entrepreneurs, that might mean:

• Weekly check-ins (even just over coffee or Zoom)
• Setting up a shared task manager (Asana, Trello, etc.)
• Agreeing on preferred tools and work styles from the start

Embrace Flexibility & Compromise

Even in the best Aussie partnerships, compromise is key. You won’t agree on everything—but you must be able to meet halfway and keep the big picture in mind.

• Flexibility: Be open to trying new methods.
• Adaptability: Learn to read your partner and adjust accordingly.

Celebrate Wins, Learn from Losses

No milestone is too small to celebrate. Whether it’s your first sale, a new investor, or just a completed product test, acknowledging wins fuels morale.

And when setbacks hit—as they inevitably do—treat them as lessons. A united front during tough times shows strength and builds lasting trust.

Unorthodox Partnership Types Worth Exploring

Nathan Baws encourages thinking outside the box when it comes to partnerships. Here are three unconventional setups that Aussie entrepreneurs are embracing:

1. The Odd Couple Combo

Two seemingly opposite personalities can bring balance and depth to a business. The key is mutual respect and understanding the value in your differences.

2. Mentor-Mentee Relationships

Forming a business with a mentor can supercharge your growth. This setup also brings years of experience into your early-stage business.

3. Global & Cross-Industry Partnerships

Look beyond your city or industry. A designer in Brisbane could thrive when partnered with a tech expert in Singapore or a marketer in London.

Nurturing the Long-Term Partnership

Building a great partnership is just the start. Keeping it alive and thriving is the real challenge. Here’s how:

• Regular Reviews: Check in monthly to reflect on progress, reassess goals, and identify friction points.
• Continuous Learning: Take courses together, read the same books, attend events.
• Celebrate Milestones: Whether it’s financial targets or anniversary dates—acknowledge them.
• Get Outside Help: Bring in a coach or business advisor when needed. A third-party perspective often saves time and drama.

Why Aussie Entrepreneurs Trust Nathan Baws

Nathan Baws has built his reputation on helping entrepreneurs skip the fluff and get to the heart of business success. His strategies are raw, real, and rooted in experience. If you’re in need of small business consulting services in Australia—or even just solid advice—his name comes up often in Aussie founder circles.

Whether you’re starting out, scaling, or stuck in a rut, Nathan’s methods cut through the noise and help you build partnerships that last.

Finding the right partner isn’t just about business compatibility. It’s about trust, growth, shared values, and vision. The journey may feel daunting, but with a bit of creativity, courage, and a splash of Nathan Baws-style unconventional wisdom, you’ll find someone who’s got your back.

Want more tailored advice? Book a session with Nathan or join one of his live events. Your next big move could be just one good partnership away.

FAQs

1. What’s the best place to meet a business partner?
Try industry events, co-working hubs, or online niche groups.

2. Should I go into business with a friend?
Only if your visions, values, and work styles align.

3. How do I test a potential partner?
Do a trial project together first.

4. Can opposites make good partners?
Yes—if you respect and balance each other’s strengths.

5. What’s the biggest red flag in a partner?
Misaligned values and poor communication.