The season’s over, let’s get back to work
We wrapped New Orleans Entrepreneur Week last week, and the “entrepreneurial season” has come to a close. Now that the spotlight has faded, founders are thinking about what’s next.
I’m going to share some blunt advice based on my experience with 3 years of Launch Pad classes. Ask founders who have been through our program — the work is just starting. And its up to you to determine where you’ll be next NOEW.
Do Something, Anything — NOEW is over, you stepped off the stage and it hit you. Now what? You’ve been on mentorship overload for the last few months, and now you’ve got no-one around. The heat you have from NOEW has a half-life of a few weeks, so quit basking and get to work. A year from now are you going to be looking for a j-o-b or are you going to have paying customers, employees and a growing company? Focus on things in your control and do something.
Go Headsdown — You nailed it on your pitch and you’re feeling the mo’, but in the back of your mind you feel a little hollow. You’re out over your skis right now and expectations are high. Take the time you need to go headsdown and execute. Build product, talk to customers, whatever it is that you need to be doing, but go headsdown and refocus on doing the hard work. The spotlight will be there when you get back, just make sure you’ve made something happen because next time you pitch, people are expecting major progress.
Level Up — You’ve made it to the show. The chip on your shoulder isn’t doing you any favors. It’s time to be a leader. You’re building a company and your team is going to be a reflection of you. Create the right culture in your company. Don’t be an asshole, treat people with respect, you’re going to need the support of everyone who is rooting for you. Level up, you’re in the big leagues now and you’re the CEO. Act like it.
Stop ‘Trepping and Get to Work — NOEW is over. Being an entrepreneur is not your job, building a company is. Build your personal brand as a captain of the industry you are in, not as startup dude. Idea Village and Entrepreneur Magazine are in the entrepreneurship industry, so let them talk ‘Treps, you should be talking about your company and the problems you solve for your customers. Communicate on social media with your customers, not your fanboys.
If any of the thoughts above resonate with you, take them to heart. But trust your own gut and chart your own course, these are just nuggets based on my experience. In fact, these are point of advice I’ve received personally in my career. I need to continue to Be Bold in everything I do.
Now what?
The season may be over, but I’m looking for founders who are ready for the post-season, the playoffs, the big time. If you’re ready to take your game to the next level, join us as we take the show on the road at Launch Fest and the New Orleans Startup Showcase.