Becoming one of the biggest entrepreneurs in the tech field is an enticing idea but, with all the competition, it is incredibly difficult to achieve. There are no general rules as to make one successful but from a careful analysis of some top players in this field, there are a couple of recurring themes worth keeping an eye out for. With that in mind and without further ado, here are the top four tips for entrepreneurs looking to be the next big thing in the tech field.
Pick something you’re passionate about
In order to understand an average user, you need to be as close to them as possible. So, when making a platform or a tool, start by asking if this is the platform that you would personally use? This can help you figure out if you’re on the right track.
It will take an incredible amount of work, which is why it’s important that it’s something you actually care about. We’re talking about spending hours tweaking some of the most obscure features. In other words, a lot of time it will feel like your work makes no sense. This is why it’s important that it always makes sense to you.
Make sure that it’s a challenge so that you don’t get bored or start losing some of your most ambitious staff members. As long as you feel like working on this project benefits you professionally, things will seem worth your while. It’s really that simple.
Even though the majority of entrepreneurs dream of becoming tech moguls for the money, this isn’t big enough of the motivator. Just ask some of the biggest names in the tech industry. While they were starting out, they were driven more than just greed.
Work on your unique selling proposition (USP)
Even if people don’t understand how your product works, they should understand how it benefits them. A lot of entrepreneurs make the mistake of believing that making something that people need is enough. Instead, you want to work on something that they see as a big enough priority to actually pay for.
One of the simplest ways to get there is to carefully select a niche. Specialized software has a special kind of appeal to its users. For instance, an insurance distribution software, once it’s set up, can automate the workflow of an insurance business. This creates a unique kind of incentive.
Generally speaking, in order to make a unique selling proposition, you need to start by clearly defining a problem. Then, you need to identify outstanding aspects and make a promise to solve them. Even giving a (simplified) outline of the solution is a good idea.
A unique selling proposition boosts the value and marketability of your brand as a whole. Usually, in order to make it, you need to start with target audience research. Once you know your market, the UPS writes itself.
Be careful with your company’s equity
While selling equity in order to get some investment money sounds like a solid plan, try to calculate how much you stand to lose in the long run. In 10 years, your company might be worth millions. Does this mean that you shouldn’t sell it? Of course not! Just make sure that it goes at a decent price.
Crowdfunding is always popular among entrepreneurs in this industry, so why not take advantage of this fact. Remember, this is not just about the money. It allows people to develop an awareness of your brand early on. People who pledge are not just investors but reliable future customers, as well.
Finding a partner can be a saving grace. However, picking someone to team up with is not a decision that you should make lightly. Instead of picking someone with the same interests, you should probably choose someone who shares your vision.
Offering your employees some equity within the firm can help keep them more motivated. After all, this way you will directly tie the success of your company to the compensation they receive. It will make them feel as if they’re working for themselves, which is an amazing motivator.
You can’t do it on your own
Sure, you will work more hours than anyone on this project but even if you could work 24/7, chances are that you wouldn’t be able to do it all on your own. Moreover, this would lead you to burnout, which could spell a disaster for your young enterprise. This is why most entrepreneurs tend to hire a virtual assistant to make their jobs easier for them.
Start delegating tasks as soon as possible. First of all, you need to start hiring the right talent. You still won’t be able to afford to hire experts but grooming people for positions of leadership can be just as good (if not better). If anything, this ensures high talent loyalty for years to come.
Once you start picking up steam, it will appear as if you’re invincible. Remember that this is just an illusion. For a young successful entrepreneur, there’s nothing harder than controlling their own ego. This is also why it’s important to surround yourself with honest people, instead of just gathering yes-men for your crew.
Just because you can’t do everything, this doesn’t mean that it won’t get done. You need to start believing in people. Give your staff members more autonomy. This will get a lot of work off your plate and allow you to focus on core tasks. It will also show them that they really have your trust.
In conclusion
By focusing on these four issues, you’ll quickly adopt the mindset you need in order to make it in this industry. Choose something you like in order to stay motivated, focus on the product, surround yourself with people you trust, and always focus on the future.
