Startups Need Fewer Visionaries and More Mechanics
Everyone claims to be an expert, but can they really help you build your business?
There are three types of people an entrepreneur needs to build a successful business: employees to build the company, advisers to influence the direction of the business, and investors to provide the fuel and connections.
Within each of these three groups, there are a lot of folks who will call themselves “startup experts,” but there are very few with the experience to help you build something from idea to reality and generate revenue. If I had to pick one adage that I rely on most often as a startup founder, it’s this: There is no single best practice for any aspect of building a new company. That’s why, even after 20-plus years working on a dozen startups, I don’t call myself a startup expert. Because in my mind, there is no such thing.
If you’re the idea person, don’t hire another idea person for help.
When I build something, I’m not relying on my expertise — I’m relying on my experience. It may seem like a trivial difference. It’s not.
