Andrew Gazdecki

When you're a small startup only hire others that loves building, loves solving problems, loves being a part of a small team, loves having an impact, loves learning, and understands how chaotic things can be because it's not for everyone. If the person is considering being employee #1034 at some huge company or joining your startup realistically they're probably not a fit and that's entirely okay. I always say startup job description should just say "your role will change constantly and you'll have the opportunity to wear multiple hats". So be honest and upfront with this. Another tip: hire for motivation, attitude, and skillset in that order because you can't teach the first two.

Before you build a startup write down… 1. The customer 2. Their problems 3. Current solutions 4. Your solution 5. Why now 6. Why you The last two are most important. Market timing and founder fit.

One simple way to reduce churn at your startup is having the BEST customer support in your market: - phone support - email support - live chat - up to date tutorials - 24/7 availability This isn’t rocket science but it really works. Be the “Zappos” of your market.

Here's something that's worked for me: 1. Create a podcast for your startup. 2. Interview your successful customers. 3. Record their story. 4. Ask what worked ask what what didn't. 6. Gather feedback. Gather insights. 5. Then share these with potential customers. Easy way to learn from customers while creating content to market your startup.

1. Run due diligence on your own company 2. Build early relationships with potential buyers 3. Sell at the right time 4. Value your business reasonably 5. Speak to multiple buyers at once 6. Conduct due diligence on the buyer 7. Don't assume anything 8. Constantly sell your business 9. Don't get greedy 10. Keep your composure Most of these lessons I learned the hard way or through watching other founders falter and fail. You'll likely make mistakes or run into hiccups during your deal. These lessons won't replace the valuable experience you gain from failure. But I hope they'll give you the confidence to see your acquisition journey through to the end.

Simple way to validate a startup MVP... 1. Create a landing page 2. Outline problem you're solving 3. Outline who your customer is 4. Clear call to action and lead form 5. Talk to customers 6. Listen to feedback 7. Implement feedback Main point: validate before building a product.