Startups Changing the World
FountainBlue's June 9 When She Speaks program, on the topic of 'Startups Changing the World'. Please join me in thanking our esteemed panelists.
We had an amazing array of successful entrepreneurs for today's When She Speaks program on the topic of 'Startups Changing the World'. These leaders and innovators represented a range of backgrounds and experiences (although it was amazing that we had THREE chemical engineers on the panel), yet they had much in common:
They are resourceful and resilient, adept at solving problems, engaging a range of stakeholders and delivering on results.
They are inspirational and passionate about what they do, and knowledgable and creative about how to deliver on the vision/mission/values for their organization.
They are strategic transformation drivers, with a knack for understanding macro and micro trends, as well as delivering to the needs of the customer.
They are impassioned communicators and connectors, driving change with a clear purpose, delivering outcomes which command respect, and nurturing relationships which drive transformational change for the better.
Below is a compilation of their advice on leading and managing in a start-up:
Whether you are in a start-up or in a corporation, choose to be resilient, resourceful and scrappy, focusing on driving disruptive innovations which are purpose-driven.
Drive your innovation based on market trends and customer needs, but pivot agilely if and when those needs shift. (Granted, this is much easier to do in a start-up where there are likely fewer processes.)
Automate processes and tasks which are time-consuming, but make sure that humans oversee, design and drive the automations so that it makes sense and brings the desired results.
Hire and manage those-brighter-than-you, and motivate them and provide them the resources and support to deliver extraordinary goals.
My biggest takeaway from today's inspiring and far-reaching discussion is that start-up leaders must drive growth wherever they are in their life cycle, regardless of their industry or funding status.
'Growth' might involve tweaking an innovation or shifting a target market. It might mean defining a new market segment or creating a platform. It might be offering a solution to a new target market or tweaking pricing models. You get the picture - 'growth' is different for each organization, whether it's a start-up or an organization.
I was inspired by today's panelists who are continuing do what it takes to succeed. I am grateful for the innovations which change the world for us all.