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1) What % of people that you approach are even looking for a new business opportunity? As Steve Jobs famously said,  being focused means turning down 1,000 good ideas. These folk will probably reject your approach.


2) Of these, what % of people can actually see the potential of your idea? 89% of prospects will turn away if they are not in the same line of business and don’t have insights about the business opportunity.


3) Of these what % of people understand what being a “collaborative partner” means, as opposed to being a “supplier”? Many don’t know the difference.

4) Of these, what % do you get on with/does the  chemistry fit?

5) Of these, what % would bring your idea to market the same way you plan to? This is often the first reason  for conflict.


6) Of these, what % have the same long-term aims as you? Is it to create a lifestyle business or to generate revenue and sell on?

7) Of these, what % have complementary skill sets?

8) Of these, what % are financially able to embark on the venture. It will always require twice as much effort and cash as on the business plan.


9) Of these, what % think your presence will upset their existing team – and vice versa?


10) Finally, are the remaining candidates one of business’s psychopaths 1-3%, near- sociopaths

1-5%, or serial failures that make up 12% of UK company directors – who will say whatever they need to in order to advance their purposes?

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