A Startup Guide to Entrepreneurship...the 8layer way!

A Startup Guide to Entrepreneurship...the 8layer way!
Meric B. Mara

A lot has already been said about startups and its continuing rise in numbers and how they became integral players in the tech industry and business in general today. Being a startup company years before, 8layer has something to say as well. It was said that one key attribute of a startup is its ability to grow. We are proud to say that yes, we have grown amidst difficult challenges along the way. We feel that with everything we've been through as a company, and as an advocate of knowledge sharing, it is just right that we help other startups know a few lessons we have learned.

1. LIVE AND BREATHE YOUR VISION BY HEART

The vision you have for your company is something that flows in your blood. What you see and aspire for in the future should come to you naturally, letting you act out of passion and not by force. These everyday moments fuel the dream and enhance the idea that started it all. As you try to proceed with this vision in mind, be weary of those who will not believe in you and do not be afraid to fight for what you think is right. Lastly, as we live in this fast moving world, remember to update your knowledge to continue fulfilling that vision.

2. EAT THAT FROG

“Eat a live frog first thing in the morning and nothing worse will happen to you the rest of the day.”

― Mark Twain

This is the quote that gave an idea to a best selling book, Eat That Frog, to end procrastination. How do we exactly stop procrastinating? I think everyone is guilty of this, at least a few times in our lives. This is a wonderful take on overcoming this bad habit. By dealing and focusing on the most difficult thing first, all other tasks would seem so much easier and you'll be able to accomplish more. Then, reward yourself after completing these tasks.

3.SURROUND YOURSELF WITH PEOPLE WHO HAVE THE SAME LEVEL OF PASSION 

When hiring people for your team, be sure to hire those who are as committed as you and who will lift you higher. Being with positive people will give you the confidence and boost to make right decisions. Developing programs and team building activities will also secure the bond of your organization as a whole.
 
4. MAKE YOURSELF VISIBLE

It has never been more important than it is today for entrepreneurs to be visible, physically and online. There are a lot of ways this could be done. Being visible and "putting yourself out there" doesn't come easy to everyone. We, ourselves, learned the importance of this relatively late. Know your strength and determine the ways you can push your limits. Pitching your business/products, attending seminars, sharing your knowledge and conducting training are just a few examples on how to make this possible.

5. MIND YOUR ATTACHMENT TO PEOPLE

I believe it is natural for us to be attached to people such as our family, friends, people we work with and admire. However, in the work environment, it is important to tread carefully and know that nothing is permanent. As entrepreneurs, it is our duty to determine if the people in our team do not fit the company and its vision and if they pull you down. We should set an example by setting them free and supporting everyone's growth. Remember to conduct a proper exit interview. 


6. SYSTEMATIC PLANNING & MONITORING

As a pioneer in Open Source in the Philippines, we pride ourselves for demonstrating strength in the areas of planning and monitoring through the use of proper tools. This enables us to measure our capabilities and make adjustments in our activities if necessary. This is also another way of tracking whether we are satisfying our customers, which is our number 1 goal.

7. MAKE PROFIT

This is the foremost consideration for most people in putting up a business. Does it come easy though? Without hard work, just like everything in life, it does not. Our idea, to become a reality and for it to continue to fuel the organization, needs to be enhanced by innovation. This is the only way for the company to grow and achieve what you have set out to do in your vision. Hiring the right people will make you go there faster. Always have an eye for expansion when the opportunity presents itself.

8. CUSTOMER IS KING

Customer is King and as such, customers are very hard to please. It is our responsibility to know and understand them so that we can give them the product and service they want and need. By fulfilling projects and exceeding their expectations, it will make them happy and they will continue to give you long-term support .