Gust

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Intellectual Property for Startups in the Real World

Gust

Later stage companies have some additional concerns: What favorable impact could IP have for PR, marketing and investor relations purposes, or as an attraction to potential acquirors? What is the risk-benefit calculus for developing and protecting proprietary technologies vs. buying or licensing them (“ build vs. buy ”)?

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A Startup’s First Steps: What’s In A Name?

Gust

Most new startups have a name in mind, or have even taken various steps to secure rights to the name, but some are on the fence or still developing a brand name when we first meet. This comes in handy for things like business press coverage, corporate PR, and ticker symbol if and when the company goes public.

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Lost and Found at a Beauty Contest

Gust

Oh, not as a contestant… as an “all in” PR gamble that failed spectacularly and essentially bankrupted our startup. The Miss Universe contest was perhaps the most devastating loss of my life. It was all so tempting.

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The Rhythm Method of Product Iteration

Gust

Obviously, a frantic reaction to someone else’s move will damage the way your biz dev, sales, product managers, engineers, PR people, and strategy teams interrelate. Your customers should feel the same way. It reinforces processes. And that’s hard enough to get right already!

Product 70
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“AirB&E” and Disaster Response for Consumer Startups

Gust

Speed of response can be critical when a PR disaster like “Ransackgate” strikes. Develop a think skin regarding (a) garden-variety commercial disputes, which are devoid of any news value, and (b) true nutcases, of which there will be plenty. Consider “deputizing” some of them with limited administrator powers.

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