Web 2 Voice

In the last eight years or so, I’ve worked for a few different startups (organically funded, VC backed, Angel backed, etc).  I am nothing if not a sucker for information, so I tend to be hyper aware of perceptions of both the company I work for as well as the industry we are in.

One thing that it took me a while to realize is that people likely aren’t going to be a fan of what you’re doing.  More to the point, if what you’re doing is really popular, you probably aren’t doing it right.  Think about it.

What do all startups have in common?  First, the vast majority fail.  So if you’re a pundit, you’re going to be right most of the time betting against.  Secondly, a startup is about doing things differently than what other companies that are already successful are doing.  It’s not hyperbole to say that startups are mini-revolutions.

If it’s not revolutionary, there is probably someone out there who has more money that can do what you’re doing reasonably well.  It’s the vision of the founders and leaders of a company that set it apart.  It’s having a vision that is unique.

Honestly, it took me awhile to realize this.  But now that I had that little epiphany, I think it’s pretty obvious in retrospect.  And it makes me worry a lot less about public perception as well.

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