An experienced business leader with MBAs from both the Columbia University Business School and the University of California at Berkeley, Steve Shillingford serves as an advisor through Signal Peak Ventures. Steve Shillingford has used his experience with entrepreneurship to enrich others' entrepreneurial efforts through his work with the firm.
Entrepreneurs face a number of unique challenges when starting companies. To stay effective in the modern business environment, you must learn to work lean and avoid waste. Consider hiring employees for a three-month trial period and telling them as much up front. This will make it easier for both sides to part amicably if there is a poor fit.
Similarly, make sure the product itself is lean. Ambitious, long-term projects instead of short, clear goals can lead to a fatigued team and failure to deliver. Finally, the precarious position of a start-up means that you should make sure to bill your clients before work begins, usually charging in advance for a given work period. Unpaid invoices for completed work can lead to financial disaster.
Entrepreneurs face a number of unique challenges when starting companies. To stay effective in the modern business environment, you must learn to work lean and avoid waste. Consider hiring employees for a three-month trial period and telling them as much up front. This will make it easier for both sides to part amicably if there is a poor fit.
Similarly, make sure the product itself is lean. Ambitious, long-term projects instead of short, clear goals can lead to a fatigued team and failure to deliver. Finally, the precarious position of a start-up means that you should make sure to bill your clients before work begins, usually charging in advance for a given work period. Unpaid invoices for completed work can lead to financial disaster.