Startup is a phase. Eventually a company will and should grow out of that phase. Normally in 2-3 years. To remain in Startup mode is actually to invite atrophy. A company that has emerged to a point where they have a loyal customer base and a viable business model does need to adopt some traditional customer facing processes for sales, marketing, delivery and after-sales services. Otherwise, they risk losing that customer base.
So what is a founder’s vision and how do you cultivate it?
When we think of the word vision, rather than idea, we think of something much larger. Like a diamond, rather than a zirconium. Where an idea is often flat or two dimensional, a vision is multi-faceted. A vision is complete – not in the terms of meaning it is finished – but in terms of meaning that it is whole. In in the Customer Development methodology recommends using the Business Model Canvas to articulate this initial vision. Which covers many aspects of the business, not just features and benefits.
Girls Raising event successfully showcasing startups with female founders
This week I went to a Girls Raising event in Toronto. The group’s premise is: if companies which include female founders are often more successful than less diverse companies, let’s support companies that include women founders, and give them an opportunity to hone their message and receive effective feedback.
Why is the Canadian Tech Entrepreneurial Dream too often just a wish for a multi-million dollar exit?
When listening to Canadian would-be entrepreneurs, it seems that quite often you hear their dream is to start a company, grow it to the point where some other larger American company comes along and buys it, enabling the original founders to walk away with millions of dollars.
Will Generation X and Z drive a more collaborative workplace? Will Millennials be left behind?
What I think will really happen when we move away from less structured organizational styles is that this will breed new ways of thinking and interacting in the workplace. Companies will evolve a style and leadership that focuses on performance and satisfaction for all its constituents – management, employees and customers alike. It will be as unique as their constituents are.
Executive Reporting – Be Brief, Clear and Complete
To create a good executive status report, be brief, present the facts clearly and make sure your summary covers all areas that need to be addressed.