Startup Professionals Musings

SEPTEMBER 27, 2015

Use metrics to support judgment in decisions. Metrics should be seen as guides, helping to direct and support good behavior, but not absolute measurements of good or bad judgment and wisdom. Metrics are necessary to acquire knowledge and turn it into action. Marty Zwilling First published on IvyExec.com on 9/25/2015.

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Startup Professionals Musings

NOVEMBER 2, 2015

Contrary to a popular myth, problem-solving is a talent that can be developed. That means practicing non-defensive listening to key advisors, team members and customers. If everyone is incented to find new customers, there will be little focus on resolving problems with current ones. Analyze issues to prevent similar problems.

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Startup Professionals Musings

SEPTEMBER 18, 2015

Based on my own many years of experience as both an employee and an executive, here are my key recommendations to improve your business productivity, traction and momentum: Implement business metrics, and tie incentives to results. In most businesses, 80 percent of the revenue comes from 20 percent of the customers.

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Training Entrepreneur Tool Metrics 105

Startup Professionals Musings

AUGUST 7, 2015

When pitching to investors, entrepreneurs always seem to start with a customer pitch, then add a slide or two about the business. In every case, the relevant pitch needs to start by highlighting a real customer problem, then outlining a new solution, with all the features and disruptive technology.

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Startup Professionals Musings

SEPTEMBER 28, 2015

If the elements of your business aren't expertly developed and aligned, even the best dream will be in jeopardy. Here is my list of those elements, which every entrepreneur needs to develop before charging into the marketplace with high hopes and (sadly) a business that will likely get lost in the throng.

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Startup Professionals Musings

OCTOBER 2, 2015

Innovative products and services always take longer to develop than anticipated, and quality problems pop up where least expected. Make sure all new development is buffered, rather than stretch-oriented. Smart entrepreneurs have metrics for assessing their progress against milestones and regularly communicate new insights to the team.

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Startup Professionals Musings

NOVEMBER 21, 2015

Here are key maxims that I believe indicate a growth mindset rather than a fixed mindset: A need to learn from customers, rather than educate them. Successful entrepreneurs start with a customer problem, and develop a solution, rather than the other way around. Develop market insights and a growth vision far beyond today.

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