If a tree falls in a forest but no one witnesses it, does it make a sound?
The rational brain is unequivocal, “Of course it makes a sound.” Substance over form. The rational brain is wrong. The answer is, “No.” No witness = no sound. Always,
Entrepreneurs look at things from the customer’s perspective
Sebastian Coe, as chairman of the London Organising Committee, used a great analogy for how to view the Olympics which is perfect for how you view your customers.
Entrepreneurs focus on form AND substance
The over-arching principle of South African law is, “Substance over form.” This means the law is based upon intent, not words. “The contract doesn’t say that,” is not a
Entrepreneurs choose to have lots of customers
It’s easier to build a business with one big customer. Cash flow is easier. Only one invoice to send each month. Customer service is easier. Only one complaining
Entrepreneurs are dealmakers
There are three kinds of people. Dealmakers, dealbreakers and the crowd. The crowd is arb. The crowd follows. It won’t lead, it won’t block. Dealmakers make things
Entrepreneurs give customers what they want
Henry Ford completely dominated the motorcar industry for almost two decades, from 1907 onwards. His vision of bringing raw basic transport to the masses was epitomized by the Model
Entrepreneurs serve users first, customers second
Sometimes your customer is your user, ie: Facebook. Sometimes your customer is just an agent for your user, ie: the CIO of a company deciding which email client to
Entrepreneurs are salesmen
There are plenty things you need to do to ensure success. Run a frugal operation, bring in partners you can trust, avoid hiring the wrong staff, take calculated
Entrepreneurs know when to be cool
Sometimes you’ve done all you can. Been to meetings. Sent letters. Made calls. Gone to church. There’s nothing else to do. No stone unturned. If you keep doing, you
Entrepreneurs know that quality = quantity
When you’re starting a company its tempting to chase lots of customers. Grow revenues as quickly as possible, get as many people using your product as possible. Beware.
Entrepreneurs sell the dream
In 2011 I was trying to raise R850million to acquire a business. The fund-raise was losing momentum and I could feel the deal slipping away from me. Not
Entrepreneurs understand the difference between respect and ego
Sometimes you can feel disrespected by your client. He takes calls during your meetings. He always keeps you waiting. He never returns your messages. Sometimes this behaviour is