The Only 4 Reasons Investors Say “Yes”

Alex Schiff is a great guy and the creator of one of my favorite products, Fetchnotes.  I met him when he was raising money for Fetchnotes (in the end, I decided not to invest because while I loved the simplicity of the product, I concluded that there weren’t enough self-organizing people like me to represent … Continue reading The Only 4 Reasons Investors Say “Yes”

For Investors, No News Is Bad News

I often advise entrepreneurs to provide regular updates to all their investors.  You don’t have to set up weekly one-on-one meetings–they’re busy people too.  A simple email every two weeks, with an update and the latest numbers, is more than sufficient. Entrepreneurs balk at this advice.  “Don’t they trust me?” the incredulous founders ask. To … Continue reading For Investors, No News Is Bad News

How do you manage board members? Like you manage anyone else!

I’m a huge Mark Suster fan, so I think his post, “8 Tips To Get the Most Out of Your Investors and Board,” is outstanding, and a must-read for any entrepreneur.  I don’t think there’s anything I can add: http://bit.ly/16TjT22 What I will point out is that all of the principles that Mark outlines ought … Continue reading How do you manage board members? Like you manage anyone else!

Investors Are Job Applicants

Start thinking of investors as job applicants. Many entrepreneurs make the mistake of investor promiscuity–they’ll get in bed with anyone with an open wallet. You need to be as picky with potential investors as you are with potential employees, if not more. Remember, you can’t fire your investors. Conversely, investors should figure out how they … Continue reading Investors Are Job Applicants