John Willis, who is 27 and single, had just completed his fifth year of employment as a carpenter for a very small homebuilder. His boss, the sole owner of the company, is Tyrone Young. A few days ago, Tyrone asked John if he would like to become a partner, which he could do by contributing $70,000. In turn, John would receive 40 percent of all profits earned by the business. John had saved $30,000 and could borrow the balance from his grandmother at a low-interest rate, but he would have to pay her back within 15 years.

John was undecided about becoming a partner. He liked the idea, but he also knew there were risks and concerns. He decided to talk to Tyrone at lunch. Here is how the conversation went:

**John:** I've been giving your offer a lot of thought, Tyrone. It's a tough decision, and I don't want to make the wrong one. So I'd like to chat with you about some of the problems involved in running a business.

**Tyrone:** Sure. I struggled with these issues about 15 years ago. When you own your own business, you're the boss. No one can tell you what to do or push you around. You can set up your own hours and make all the decisions. I enjoy the feeling of ownership.

**John:** I don't know if I'm ready to become part owner of a business. I'm still young and single, and I like working for you. I'm not sure I want all those responsibilities—getting customers, paying bills, and buying tools and lumber. You say you set your own hours, but I know you're already working when I arrive each morning, and you're still here when I leave in the evening. I know you spend some nights in the office because I see the lights on when I drive by.

**Tyrone:** Well, I do put in many hours. That goes with the territory. But I don't mind all those hours because I like making decisions. And, when you join me as a partner, we'll share the work.

**John:** Then I'll be working longer hours. Both of us could go to work for that big new contracting firm on the other side of town. Let them struggle with all the problems and decisions. Then we could work shorter hours and have more time to relax.

**Think Critically**

1. Does John have the personality to be a partner?

2. Do you think John is seriously ready to become a partner? Explain your answer.

3. If you were in John's position, how would you decide? Explain.

4. If John decides to accept Tyrone's offer, what action should be taken next?

5. Why would Tyrone offer to make John a partner?

6. Find information from the library or the Internet that might help John make a decision. One possible source is the website of the Small Business Administration.