“Makarand, I am worried about the impact of the global recession. There is a lot of talk going on. Some companies have stopped hiring in anticipation. Do you have any suggestions on how to deal with it?” “Yash, thanks for bringing it up. Yes, it is something we must consider. No one knows really knows when it will start, how...
Yash, have you thought about who will run your business after you?” “Are you serious? I just started this business a few months back. I have a long time to retire. Why should I worry about it just now? ” “Yes, but you want to scale it big, don't you? Do you think you alone will be able to manage it?” Succession planning is required to...
“Salary expectations are going above the roof. It has become difficult to hire new engineers. Existing engineers are working very hard. We must compensate them in some way. What is your recommendation for employee stock options? Will that create the required bonding for the long term?” “Nice thought, Yash. To use it effectively, one must understand the tool well. Let...
“It has been more than a few months now. The product is not taking the shape it should. I am waiting and getting nervous in the process.” “Cool down Yash. Your anxiety is quite visible. What are you doing about it?” “There is not much I can do. I am waiting for the team to deliver on their promise. I wish I could write some code myself and...
“Now that we have the development going on at full speed, I can breathe easy. I have started looking at the financials and plans for the next few months. I think we have enough money in hand for the next few months. What should be my next goal?” Yash looked relaxed today. “Start looking for angel investment.” It was a...
“It has become impossible to plan anything. Things are changing rapidly; every day is a new challenge. How to create a plan that will work?” Yash and Sangram both were looking frustrated. The sun was very bright, and the heat in the air was affecting everyone. We decided to meet earlier in the day. “That is a good question, Yash. Things will change rapidly. It’s...
"Makarand, I am confused." "I was looking at the financial plan, and I think my current savings will be good to cover the next few months. I was looking for options for fundraising while I stumbled upon a few startup gurus advising to bootstrap and Not raise investment and dilute my stake early." We were about to start the review of our budgets. Based on the numbers in...
Yash was engrossed in some thoughts as we settled for the cup of coffee. I kept quiet while he took some time to gather his thoughts. “Last week I was relieved from the job. My idea is fully explained to the team, and I am just waiting for Sangram to finish the product development. I wish I had continued with the job for some more time....
“My friend Kumar is interested in this product. He is willing to fund the part of initial development by investing in the company. What is the best way forward?” Yash was excited. Finally, he could find someone willing to put money into his idea. “Has he invested in other companies before? Does he know all the pluses and minuses?” That...
“We are just starting to develop; how can you expect us to be at number one from day one? There are other players in the market. They are working for a few years and way ahead of us.” It was a natural reaction from Yash to my demand. Every startup must start afresh, which obviously means following the competition. Right? Being no 1 is a mindset...
