Tag: Steve Blank

“If I didn’t make any money after 4 years, can I still say I had a hell of a ride?” – Steve Blank

The questions was asked of Steve Blank during one of his Lean Launchpad sessions, “How do we know if we should start the company?” Hi reply was recorded in this video:

Steve’s Video

This quote was one of the replies to the question and it’s significant because it speaks to the inherent need for passion and belief beyond just the dream of getting rich. Making meaning is about changing the world for good, even if it’s for a season and even if it only touches the lives of a few.

Blogging Gazelle is published daily by Shawn Carson

“Never start a business where you end up hating your customers” – Steve Blank

Another great point made by Steve Blank to his recent Lean Launchpad class. This was in response to a question about whether or not to go on with the business now that the team had validated the market. Check the Video

I think you have to really want to make a difference when you start a company. There is no guarantee it will be a huge success. It may only be a huge success to a small group of people. Regardless, making a fortune as the primary motivation starting the company will not carry you through the tough times you will face. I think that’s what Mr. Blank is trying to get across. Your customers may not always love you; or they may love you to death. Either way, it has to be for them and the problem you are solving. The money alone won’t be enough motivation.

In this season, isn’t it appropriate to highlight the the giving aspect of the startup?

Happy holidays and Merry Christmas!

Blogging Gazelle is published daily by Shawn Carson

“Do you want to spend the next 3 or 4 years doing this?” – Steve Blank

This is from a video of Steve Blank addressing one of his Lean Launchpad classes at the end of the course. The question was asked, “How do we know if we should move forward with the company?”

In characteristic professor mode, Steve answered the question with a few questions.

When you start a company, it will take a few years to get it going. What that means is up to you. It could be profitability, break-even, funding or acquisition. Regardless, any venture takes time and it’s a good question to ask yourself when deciding to launch a startup.

Here is a link to the video: http://vimeo.com/groups/213077/videos/81260482

Blogging Gazelle is published daily by Shawn Carson

“Without dissent, there is no creativity” – Steve Blank

If no one ever complains, if no one ever challenges the status quo and if no one ever cries “BS”, then you will miss something. You may miss the biggest thing.

Be open to dissent. Encourage a culture of spirited debate. Listen to angry customers. It’s not comfortable but it keeps you from sitting back thinking you have all the answers.

Do all this while keeping one eye on your core ideology.

Blogging Gazelle is published daily by Shawn Carson

“Real Learning is Outside the Building, Not Demo Day” – Steve Balnk

Just yesterday, I was having this conversation. The big question is what happens after Demo Day? So much energy is directed toward getting the pitch ready and that effort is by no means wasted. Understanding your business model and telling your story is foundational. But, as Steve Blank might say, that is all “inside the building” stuff.

One of our clients gave a great pitch yesterday. I congratulated her and then asked, “Have you sold anything yet?” The question threw her…

Your pitch is a means to an end. The end is having customers.

Here is Steve’s post: http://bit.ly/1dTFyKB