PEOPLE MATTER / 129 . If it's possible, you should maintain the controlling interest in your business. If that's not possible, then include language in your partnership agreement that requires a supermajority vote on major issues. Otherwise, you could find yourself locked out of your own company. . Be careful about going into a business partnership with a friend or a family member. As I noted earlier, employing friends and fam- ily is a sticky issue. Partnerships are even more involved, and a failed partnership can be even more damaging. Getting Great Advice Starting and growing a business is a complex process, and by now I hope you've realized it is impossible for you to know everything. The more information, talent, and resources you can access, the greater your chances of success. Advisory boards, mentors, and business coaches can help. Advisory Boards No matter how small or large your firm is, you can benefit from building an advisory board. Think about the last time you met with other businesspeople and had an open discussion about your busi- ness challenges. Talking through various issues with others can often help you identify strategies you may not have seen before. An advisory board formalizes this process. Having an advisory board is also a cost-effective way for your small business to gain critical expertise so you can adjust your course as necessary. Board members may also be able to open doors for you by utilizing their networks. Because advisory boards are not formally part of your company, they don't run the risk of fiduciary or legal lia- bility. The advice they share with you is nonbinding. Entrepreneurs are often eternal optimists, and while this is not necessarily a bad American Management Association / www.amanet.org