As we close the door on 2011—and nearly 2 ½ years of effort to create CareerFuel—I thought it might be useful to share what this startup has learned thus far. This is in the hope that 2012 will be the start of something satisfying and rewarding for you.
Like house renovations, it always takes longer than you think. And requires more money than anticipated.
The best stories have good dramatic moments, so be grateful for yours when they happen, even if they weren’t part of the plan. The weather may change, but you can weather the storm if you are smart and flexible.
A bad day is almost always followed by a new reason to believe.
Never lose sight of the problem you are solving because it keeps you going.
People are usually willing to help. Just ask. That holds true for big and small. I know because my team and I have had audiences with more than one media tycoon whom we cold-called.
For every word you speak, listen to five more. There is always something to be learned from people’s feedback that can strengthen your business.
Naysayers are your best friends because they sharpen your thinking.
There are as many ways of making a business happen as there are businesses. There is no one formula, only trial and error.
If it takes a village to raise a child, it takes a city to make a business successful. Make certain you find and empower great teammates and mentors while listening carefully to your customers.
Thank you for believing in us and being a part of the CareerFuel story.