I’m not one of those people who set out to “own stuff.” In fact, my husband — who has always had that entrepreneurial spirit — had been telling me to start my own company for a while, but I never listened. (I’m sure he’d tell you that’s not all that surprising.) But, finally, last year, I decided it made sense to start my own company. And now, I can’t imagine doing anything else. As I celebrate a birthday this week, I’ve spent some time reflecting on the past year. And with that, I give you 30 lessons from an “accidental entrepreneur:”
- Just because you never thought about being an entrepreneur doesn’t mean you can’t be a successful business owner.
- Get a really, really good accountant.
- Treat your company like a client.
- Assemble a talented team.
- Understand your strengths and weaknesses.
- It’s ok to say “no.”
- The importance of networking can’t be overstated.
- Self-promotion isn’t a bad thing. It’s part of the game — just don’t over do it.
- Play nice.
- There’s no such thing as a 9-5 entrepreneur, but the freedom and flexibility of entrepreneurship totally make up for it.
- Be explicitly clear with customers about expectations and payment. Contracts are your friend.
- Don’t hold grudges. It’s not worth it.
- Sometimes picking up the phone is the best way to avoid or resolve conflict.
- Say thank you. A lot.
- Not every potential client is a good fit.
- You’re not a good fit for every potential client.
- Learn how to draw the line between the personal and professional.
- Do well by doing good.
- If you say you’re going to do something, do it.
- Work with people, companies and causes you believe in.
- Trust your instincts. If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t.
- Take calculated risks.
- Try new things. Some will work, some won’t. But, it’s all part of the learning experience.
- Outwork the competition.
- Maintain a laser-like focus on your strategy and big-picture goals, but be flexible enough to improvise when necessary.
- Plan, but don’t overplan.
- Appreciate people who mentor and advise you. Return the favor. Pay it forward.
- Money doesn’t have to be the end goal, but, remember that you are running a for-profit business.
- Lots of smart people have good ideas, but not everyone can figure out how to make money. If you can, embrace it!
- Be quick. Be smart. Be relevant.
What would you add?
Photo credit: clevercupcakes
