Advice is what drives and motivates many people. And, who gives better advice than the ones we look up to and the ones who have pursued their dreams? Sixteen individuals who have done and are doing what some only fathom have offered their insight. Enjoy!
Tony Hsieh, CEO of Zappos.com
“Figure out what are you are so passionate about doing that you’d be happy doing it for 10 years even if you didn’t make much money from it. Then go do that.”
Craig Newmark, Founder of Craigslist.org
“Treat people like you want to be treated. Give the other person a break.”
Clinton Sparks: DJ, Producer, Entrepreneur
“Be original! Be the first you and not the second someone else. Don’t hate on others success, learn from it.”
Anthony Sullivan, Founder of Sullivan Productions and Host of ‘Pitchmen’ on the Discovery Channel
“You’ve got to be realistic and you’ve got to be smart.”
Tim Westergren, Founder of Pandora
“I really think that this isn’t something to do alone. If you’re thinking of starting your own business, I think it’s very advisable to find someone to be your partner, at least one person if not more than one. Find someone whom you trust like a brother and someone whose skills really compliment yours…Lastly, don’t be self-conscious about being an entrepreneur!”
Christopher Evans, Founder of NeedInstructions.com
“Whatever you do in life always give it your all. I know so many people that have started their own business or website and wouldn’t put there all into it and then come to find out down the line it failed and they don’t know why. Starting up a business or website is never easy. You should know this will take up a lot of your time. Also know and understand your target base and users. Lastly, it is always important do your research before initiating anything.”
Kelly Smith, Founder of Curious Office and Inkd.com
“Remember that many of the old clichés are true so don’t dismiss them. For example, “work hard”. I once read that Eddie Van Halen used to sit on the edge of his bed practicing guitar almost every Friday and Saturday night when he was a kid while the rest of his friends went out to have fun. Brute force can overcome a lot of obstacles. If you don’t work harder than most then a start-up isn’t going to work for you. The other bit of advice I’d give is to remember that life is short. If you treat someone poorly and burn that bridge don’t think it doesn’t matter. Odds are, you’ll encounter that person again and you might even need their help. I try to be nice in all cases. I sometimes get frustrated and say things that I later regret. I do that less and less as I get older. Be nice to everyone and your aspirations will be realized more easily and more quickly.”
Tori-Nichel, Founder of Clothing Company: Tori Nichel
“Listen and research and study the experts and mentors in your industry who are successful. Do your due diligence and you will persevere.”
Dan Bliss, Founder of PerfectBusiness.com
“Do what you love. Monday is my favorite day of the week, because I love what I do. Often times, weekends slow me down. Don’t get me wrong, I like weekends too. The point is that everyone has the choice to make. I’m not saying that everyone should be an entrepreneur. If you love your job, that’s great! However, if you are miserable at work, and have always wanted to start a business, just do it! Life is too short to be miserable.”
Micah Stubblefield, Thintopia.com Founder
“When the going gets tough the tough get going. These times will really bring out the true leaders. Don’t give in to negativity and doubt. Believe in yourself.”
Tim Besse, Glassdoor.com Co-Founder
“Don’t be afraid to take a chance if you are willing to work hard at an option that may seem more risky. I walked away from a secure job at Expedia with a good steady paycheck to try my hand at a start-up (Glassdoor). When we began last year, I was investing in the company rather than being paid to work there, but the opportunity to do this was something I knew I could believe in and in turn something that I could put my heart and mind into.”
Sanjay Sathe, Founder of RiseSmart.com
“There’s nothing like dreaming up an idea and then making it a reality. I encourage everyone to try it. Also, persistence pays… be at it, stay focused and healthy as everything depends upon you.”
Brian Backus, Founder of Kidlandia
“An upside to the downturn for many people is the rare opportunity to deepen their understanding of what drives them and what they can contribute to the world. Take it if you can.”
Brian Linton, Founder of Sand Shack
“You don’t have to have an innovative product to build a company from. I started with simple beaded jewelry, but the way I branded it and sold it has allowed me to create a successful company from un-innovative products such as apparel and accessories.”
Alex Mendoza: DJ, Producer, and Entrepreneur
“It is always important to be professional, whether you’re sending a quick email or presenting yourself in an interview. It surprises me how many people do not act professionally when it comes to a job they want.”
Sami Bay, SomethingStore.com Founder
“I’m a big fan of the internet as it gives access to an incredible amount of resources to a large section of the population. This enables more people to do what they want to achieve. So, my advice for young entrepreneurs would be to realize this potential and take advantage of it by learning, networking and finally executing their business ideas.”
