𝗧𝗼 𝗚𝗿𝗼𝘄 𝗕𝗶𝗴 𝗮𝘀 𝗮𝗻 𝗘𝗮𝗿𝗹𝘆 𝗙𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗿, 𝗬𝗼𝘂 𝗛𝗮𝘃𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝗧𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗸 𝗕𝗶𝗴

As an early-stage founder, you might think you're free from the trappings of corporate life. Not quite! Successful founders begin with the end in mind.

Although I primarily work with startups that have gained traction, early-stage founders often ask me, "What should I be thinking about now?"

Though you may want to avoid becoming too corporate, it's important to consider how the key functions of larger companies can benefit your early-stage startup. Let's go!

Accounting & Finance: Determine your cash runway—the point when costs will exceed savings or funding.

Set a specific date to reassess your startup's viability. Don’t think in terms of success or failure, but you may need to pause.

You may need to get a job and work on the startup after hours or pivot the business model to generate quick revenue.

Recruiting: Your energy and expertise are limited. Sometimes, you can do the work yourself, but your efforts in product development, sales, or fundraising might be ten times more valuable.

Identify critical areas where you can outsource. Set clear expectations, desired outcomes, and budget. Then, explore at least three options.

Treat outsourcing as seriously as hiring—with careful screening, concise onboarding, and regular reviews.

Sales & Marketing: Early-stage founders should handle sales themselves. However, you may need the skills to be persuasive.

Seek advisors and mentors who know your industry and selling. If you're frequently benefiting from their advice, consider offering equity.

For marketing, research your target market and their need for your offerings. Then, regularly repeated the research since the market will evolve.

Leadership: Now is the time to build strong habits for resilience—exercise, diet, sleep, social interactions, relaxation, reflection, and purpose.

You may feel overwhelmed now, but future success brings even more pressure, so develop good habits early.

Throughout your journey, you will be the one constant. Invest in yourself with the same dedication you give to your business.

Exit: Many founders have no end in mind. 

"I have always found that plans are useless,

but planning is indispensable."

– Dwight D. Eisenhower

Eisenhower was referring to war battles, and you'll face many skirmishes as you break into an industry, capture customers' attention, and compete against rivals.

Envision a desirable outcome and then reverse-engineer your efforts to achieve that exit, including people, processes, and metrics to engage now.

Even though you're just starting, thinking like a large corporation can encourage you to consider the best possibilities and practices.

Here's your takeaway: Spend 5 minutes (yes, right now) to pick one area and what you can do apply now.

______________________________

This post was written by me with AI editing. Photo by Helena Lopes found here.

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