Ten Missteps That Could Cost You Your Business – Part 2

As a continuation from our last post, here are six more traps to avoid so that your business does not falter before it gets started.

Misstep #5. Being a Weak Leader:  Your employees took a chance on you because they thought you had the resources to grow the next great American business.  Do not let them down.  Make the tough decisions and put the interests of the business and its employees at the forefront.  Be open and approachable without bending on your convictions, let your leadership qualities shine through.

Misstep #6. Being 100% Business 100% of the time:  Recognize that your business passion is not necessarily someone else’s.  People have lives to live just as you do and when your business becomes all-consuming, you negate the needs of others.  Make your business a place that others want to work, frequent and promote.

Misstep #7. Having no Mission or Purpose to the Business:  Share your vision with your employees.  Have a clear mission statement and definitive goals for the future.  Let your business partners and employees contribute to it.

Misstep #8. Negotiating Venture Capital Based on Valuation:   Are you going public?  Did you do the proper due diligence?  Venture capital firms want to see that you have empirical evidence of the need for your niche.   Fulfill that and you will be sought by those who want to share in your vision.

Misstep #9. Incorporate Late in the Game:  In order to save money, some startups take shortcuts.  If you truly think you have a unique product or service to offer, save the money and incorporate appropriately.  “Flying under the radar” brings long-term heartaches and could cost you money in the future.  Get good professional advice to protect yourself and your employees.

Misstep #10. Lastly, hire an attorney versed in business law and intellectual property protection:  Hire an attorney from the outset and you may avoid some of the legal pitfalls.  Lawyers are for those who plan ahead.  You have insurance for your home, car and personal belongings well before disaster strikes.  Why not do the same for your business which provides you and your employees a livelihood?