He is interested in your company because he sees that it has potential. That's cool. He is hoping that with his capital that he can stand to make a large amount of money. That's fair. Unfortinatly, he's not able to run the company and thus needs you. Cool. The problem is that you'll become an employee. The advantage is that you'll have a steady income plus benifits. The disadvantage is that the margin goes to the owner you'll have to shift from being your own boss to having somebody else control your company. There are pluses and minuses, but be sure you really look at them because you might not like the minuses.

you will never F_U_C_K yourself, but someone will F_U_C_K you

Jon,

Lots of good ideas. Here is another. Consider him contracting your company to establish and then consult his AV division. He can also hire you as his exclusive installer. You may even work out a deal whereby if you "upsell" more equipment etc. you get a commission on it. I would remain solo for a while to ensure that you two will work well together. I think that if he has a manager run the store after they pay you to set it up, but they pay you to consult to them on an ongoing basis for systems, design etc., and use you as their "EXCLUSIVE" installation contractor it can be a win win win. You win by maintaining your indidviduality, he wins by having you as a consultant and installer, and the customer wins by having the best of both.

Be certain that you have an"exit clause" that is fair, equitable, and agreed upon and in writing prior to any business. This will ensure that if it is not good for either of you both of your interests are protected. Good luck.

Shane that was what I was trying to figure out last night. I am going to call up Chart this afternoon about the situation and see what his ideas are as this I think is right up his ally. If I can figure out something along the lines of what Shane is saying then I would be psyched.

Jon

Jon,

You have my numbers. I am on a conference call from 9-10 and will be here till noon. Then to lunch, back by 1 and here till 3. Then on the road to Skaterfest. Call me at the office or on the cell if you think I might be able to help.

Re: OT What should I do (business Op)
 

Keep at it, and here is the answer posted by a wise man.
Rules of business:
1. No Partners
2. No employees (or the least possible) contract everything

Shane don't hurt your back with that schedule, five hard hours!:eek:

Jon,

After you do this deal, why don't you invite your in-laws to move in with you and then have cousin Eddie take up space in your driveway with his RV, and then maybe you could do a running belly flop into a briar patch follwed by a nice cool alcohol bath...

Shane's got a good idea, that might just be doable. I'm not fond of you becoming an employee. I just don't think it'll work.

Oh NOT to worry my Canadian friend. I will certainly be sleeping during those meetings! Remeber, tehy said that they wanted me to attend, they said nothing about paying attention.;)