Why do I love working with startups?
I remember my mother quoting the late Myles Monroe.
“The wealthiest place in the world is the graveyard because there sits the dreams that were never released and the desires that never came forth that have been buried into the ground. There sit the businesses that were supposed to start but never came to fruition.”
I have a family that is a mix of corporate attorneys and engineers that are very practical. But my Grandfather was an entrepreneur that had his business during the depression and was lucky and smart to make it a success.
My Grandmother on my Dad's side came to this country not even speaking the language and started a very successful business.
I have always loved helping businesses develop to become the vision they had worked so hard to achieve. I had my own marketing and advertising company for 25 years, which allowed me to help companies attain their dreams.
My favorite part of the business was working with startups. So, 10 years ago, I left the agency business and now work exclusively with startups. I do not ever plan on retiring––its just too fun!
So what do I look for in startups?
I follow another great Man since I was in College Warren Buffet. And have followed his criteria. Look for Business that have integrity, energy, and intelligent, But most important Integrity”. And something at the time I thought was odd “Say no to what’s not important”
Another thing Warren asked a room of MBA's was out of all the people you know who would you want to have 10% of their income the rest of their life.
The answer: Yourselves! You are that person!
My hope is that we can help mentor you who are willing because
“We are a sum total of what we have learned from all who have taught us, both great and small.”
― Myles Munroe
Now for my best tip- when you do and elevator pitch make it natural, like you are chatting with friends. Show your excitement and they will feel it!
