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To celebrate the launch of the Academy, I thought I’d share some thoughts on the realities of being an entrepreneur. Here’s 10 business lessons I’ve learnt over the last 5 years: a thread 👇
1. Don’t let fear stop you from launching something; fear of competition, fear of failure, fear of the unknown. Fear is your friend, it shows you care. Embrace it, work with it.
2. Try to pay people on time. I’ve messed this up at times - when things have been particularly crazy - & it’s always been a huge source of regret & stress. Paying people on time creates a good working relationship, and shows respect. Do that more.
3. Don’t forget that the most valuable product of any company is YOU. Look after yourself; physically, mentally, emotionally. Go for walks, take time off, lie in a steam room.
4. Invest in your team - whether they are freelance, part-time, full-time, remote - care about them & remember you’re part of someone’s career & journey. That’s a responsibility, and with it, you need to CARE.
5. It’s bullshit when people say “no-one cares about your business as much as you do”. A good manager knows how to make other people passionate about your company. That’s your job as a founder: to inspire.
6. Never pay for SEO firms in Manchester. They will always rip you off & under-deliver. Do your own SEO by producing QUALITY content.
7. Create a support network - you’re going to need one. Friends, family, other founders, you'll need someone to pick-up those teary 11pm phone calls. Life is about connection.
8. Stop worrying what your competitors are doing. There’s enough space for us all to exist. There’s a corner of the internet for everyone. Don’t waste emotional energy on someone else’s vision.
9. People work with people. You never get the best out of anyone without being likeable. I think women in business are scared of being “too likeable”, for fear they won’t be taken seriously. Fuck that. Be YOU.
10. Learn how to write better briefs. Whenever I’ve outsourced work (web dev, graphic design, copywriting), and it comes back not what I wanted, I look back at the chain and it’s ALWAYS me that wasn’t clear enough on the brief. Learn to articulate your ideas into words.
And one for luck… 11. If in doubt, a dark chocolate digestive, some fresh air & a cup of tea solves most major work problems. One day I will a sign a brand endorsement with McVities and this will all have been worth it.
