Hi, Last year I started a home baking business following the new cottage laws in my area. I've started slowly by myself with occasional help from friends and family at busy times. This is a part-time business that continues to grow. I enjoy working out of my home, working as needed, when needed. I'm very comfortable with the way things are progressing and enjoy what I do. I have invested a lot of money in supplies and now have a large range of tools for my work.
Recently I have encountered a problem. I have two different family members that have approached me about wanting to partner with me. Neither is currently in the baking business for themselves. The problem is, I don't really want to partner with anyone at this time. I have the resources/finances I need. I already purchased everything to run my business, have the kitchen and storage space, a new double oven, took training; I'm pretty well set up. The only thing I need on occasion is some help with labor. I can hire out for labor. So, what do I say to the family members who are wanting to "partner" with me without hurting their feelings?
AI think a simple "I am not looking for a partner at this time, but I will keep you in mind if that changes in the future." should be sufficient.
AWhy not suggest that they team up with each other!
But as you wish has it right - a simple 'I'm not interested in partnering with anyone right now' is all that is required.
As you wish and kikiandkyle are right on. If you need labor occasionally, perhaps you could hire them as contract labor, and they would be in control of their finances and their time (which is probably why they want to partner in the first place). They could be back up so you don't have to refuse orders, and have a deadline, but use their own equipment and you can rent yours to them. You can bake and fill to your standards and have them do the finish work. They can use their own space if it is up to your standards, and even deliver the cakes to the clients, or to you. *There are laws for contract labor you would have to look into for your area*, but I think it would be doable, and leave you in control of your own business.
You may not want them to speak to clients though, because they may want to go into business for themselves eventually and steal clients and undercut you. If they are that type.
It sounds like they basically think that you have an easy and fun job and want to jump on the bandwagon. I agree that just saying you don't want a partner is the best way to go, since it's the truth.
I also work from home, and I have a similar setup as you do, from the sound of it. When I get emails form people asking about internships or jobs I just tell them that I work by myself, keep really weird hours, and I don't have employees. If it's a family member who's a pest it will be more difficult, but just keep saying no!
It sounds like they basically think that you have an easy and fun job and want to jump on the bandwagon. I agree that just saying you don't want a partner is the best way to go, since it's the truth.
Agree. They see you as having it easy so they want to ride your apron strings. When saying "no thanks" I always like to start with a positive, as in "I'd love to but..."
You know that saying: "family and business don't mix."?
It's popular for a reason.
Thank you everyone for the advice. Yes, one mentioned they want to be able to work from home, be their own boss. I don't think they realize all the money and training I've put into it already. They can cook and think that would be an easy thing to "join in" on. One is very persistent and it has been difficult to get my point across to. I like the response you gave as an example of what to say. I'll try it next time I am again approached.
"I am a lousy boss and a worse employee.... I value our relationship too much to put us both through that!"
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