The Era of the Entrepreneur!
1: Be Independent
Yeah, easier said than done. And true in any situation. Still, try to stay away from the “We need 1 million upfront to build our infrastructure” ideas and focus on stuff you can build out of your basement. Once you have traction (cashflow & users) then talk to investors. You will be in a better position to make demands.
2: Think Different
Every VC out there is currently blogging, talking and tweeting about how bad the economy is and how we should all stock up on money if we can and accept any deal we can get. Very friendly advice indeed! Fact is, entrepreneurs arecounter-cyclicalthinkers. If there is an economic slump we of all people should be seeing opportunities! In a bull market anyone can make it. This is our finest hour and don’t let those blood sucking parasites tell you otherwise!
3: Be Prepared
When you are talking to a VC they will always make it seem like they want to buy a part of your company. Switch that thing around! Don’t be too cocky about it but think of it this way: you are buying a part of their money and are using your company to pay for it. It is a simple trick but will make your perspective completely different when talking to them.
4: Be Patient
With everybody else panicking now is the time for you to relax. Observe what is happening in your industry and who will panic first. Basically this market is now a huge game of chicken: who is going to fold first? Grow your company, concentrate on cashflow and focus on the future.
5: Ignore Everyone
Ignore all the naysayers around you. Don’t matter if they are bloggers, investors or family. You have a company with a product that people want. Focus on that! Unless you have a lot of shareholders you are the only individual who is truly independent. No pink slips for you because you are your own boss! Cover your ears, keep your eyes on the road and blow those competitors who only have eyes for their stock portfolios out of the water!
Economic crisis? Bring it on! This is the era of the entrepreneur and nothing can stop us!
Story byBoris Veldhuijzen van Zanten
Boris is a serial entrepreneur who founded not only TNW, but also V3 Redirect Services (sold), HubHop Wireless Internet Provider (sold), and(show all)Boris is a serial entrepreneur who founded not onlyTNW, but also V3 Redirect Services (sold), HubHop Wireless Internet Provider (sold), andpr.co. Boris is very active on Twitter as@Borisand Instagram:@Boris.
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