How do you find the right co-founder? Here, five entrepreneurs from the Gen.T List weigh in
Much like a marriage, finding the right co-founder can be one of the most important decisions of your life. But unlike a marriage, you don't have the luxury of spending years getting to know them before you make the commitment. All of which means you need to know what qualities to be looking out for from day one.
From the co-founder of a makerspace in Kuala Lumpur to a fintech startup in Hong Kong, we ask five Gen.T honourees what to look out for when picking the ideal co-founder, and how to navigate the decision that will ultimately put you on the path to failure or success.
Test the water before you fully commit
Andy Chan
Co-founder and CEO, Qupital
“There was a period of testing when we worked together on a part-time basis for about two months before both of us fully committed to co-founding the company,” says Andy Chan, whose Hong Kong-based fintech startup empowers early-stage businesses with access to quick capital.
Chan spoke to around five people before he came to the decision to work with Winston Wong. “He was one of the first to show real fit and a shared vision; we were lucky to find each other so quickly.”
Viability
“One thing I learnt is to speak to as many people in the space of your venture about your idea as possible to gauge interest from potential co-founders, but also to get a feel for the initial viability of your project.”
Personality fit
“It's also important to appreciate your co-founder's personality and sense of humour, as you will be spending a very large portion of your days together with them. Your co-founder should believe in the same vision as yourself—it's crucial your founding team has a united goal for the business.”
See also: What Matters To Me: Andy Chan