Gust

NOVEMBER 9, 2014

Find customers, partners and channels early. There is nothing like a real customer pipeline to convince you that you need partners and channels, and to convince partners, channels, and investors that you are real. Use social networking to start the wave. Get out there personally and find that first customer.

Agile 163

Agile Startup Lean Social Network 163

Gust

AUGUST 5, 2012

Clearly define the customer, channel, and revenue model associated with this solution. Many people seem to use the social network advertising model for revenue, but forget it assumes at least 100M users and $50M investment. Describe your market penetration strategy, sales channels, pricing, and strategic partnerships.

Business Plan 182

Business Plan Sweat Equity Exit Strategy Intellectual Property 182

Gust

MARCH 9, 2014

Find partners and channels which are complementary, and not directly competitive. Despite the fact that social networking and other online processes are essentially free, good marketing still costs money. Good marketing often is the only thing that separates the successful startup from the not-so-successful startup.

Marketing 146

Marketing SEM Viral Social Media 146

Gust

OCTOBER 28, 2012

Channel your authentic energy to be genuine and likable, even when faced with difficulties and challenges. An old Harvard Business Review article, “ Competent Jerks, Lovable Fools, and the Formation of Social Networks ,” looks at how people choose those they work with. Likability is leaving people with positive perceptions.

Startup 157

Startup PR Demand Social Network 157