| Your question is too vague and not really answerable with brevity. So I'll give you a piece of general survival advice that worked for me. Reiterate constantly that the other party is doing good work, you respect them, trust them and everything you indicated above. Also be equally clear in what you need from them to do to avoid making you get crazy. Portray the issues you have with them as issues that are your own; "you know I lose attention span if I don't say something every 2 minutes in a meeting." in lieu of "you talk too much and I can't get a word in edgewise". If they make you crazy by being flaky, ask them to try and meet basic needs such as contact with you and alternate deadlines. "When do you think it will be ready, best case? Worst?" Most people who are flaky will come in around worst case, because they procrastinate. Just an example. You're in a high pressure relationship that will undergo an accelerated and constantly changing rate of romance, passion, honeymoon, frustration, fear and mistrust. This is normal; just keep focused on your trust and empathy for your co-founder and be clear on what you need from them. "I really appreciate your enthusiasm when speaking to investors, and I would like to have a few more opportunities to contribute to a point. Could you please try passing part of the answer off to me in pitching or discussion?" - Whatever it takes. Manage your co-founder, document your requirements and more than anything, don't stay angry or let an issue lie for more than 15 minutes to cool down. |