Support for Founders
The Three Ways I Interact with Founders and Entrepreneurs
I love business ideas. I love hearing about them, creating them, researching them, helping others refine them, and rolling up my sleeves to participate.
Ideation is a strength.
Ideation is also a threat to my focus and commitment.
Miscommunication compounds the issue.
I have created personal ground rules to keep my appetite in check to avoid past mistakes. Early into conversation with founders and entrepreneurs, I try to clarify their expectations from me. I enjoy helping, but we both need alignment on where I fit best.
There are three roles I can play, and my activity differs based on what they want:
- Friend
- Advisor
- Participant
Friend.
I’ll cheer when I see wins. Buy drinks when you’ve had a rough day. Endlessly talk shop and bail you out of jail when I get the call.
I will not tell you what to do, and I’ll probably fall off the grid from time to time.
I have room for a lot of friends.
Advisor.
I will host whiteboard sessions, make intros, share insights, or do whatever you need. I am prepared for your idea to occupy regular space in my brain. You can count on me to hold you accountable, creatively problem-solve with you, and check in from time to time.
I will assert strong opinions and push you to think differently.
I have less room to advise but have yet to run out.
Participant.
I am in the trenches with you. I’m helping drive the idea forward, logging regular hours for the project, and using my superpowers wherever adds value.
When I participate, I have high standards. Whether I am paid as part of the team or a freelancer, I bring my A-game.
I have one speed: fast.
Each year I participate in fewer things but push harder to make them better and more successful.
Conclusion
Friend, Advisor, or Participant. What do you need?
I can be any of the three, but let’s align our expectations.
