5 things that every startup can learn from Shahrukh Khan’s journey

Mixing one’s personal and professional life is something that society has always frowned upon. However illogical, the basic myth has always been that your love life can be a major distraction and should be restricted for only after-work hours. But what if you’re one of those daring few who are willing to join hands with your real life partner to make it big in the business of cutthroat competition? Is it a sure shot recipe to failure, you may often ask.

Will he or she let you advance in your goals or will you end up on the extreme end, risking much more than just your business? Read on to get a bird’s eye view of what you should consider before taking the leap.

The Pros

1. They know where to tread: It is no surprise that a lot of successful companies have been built by partners who were longtime friends, classmates, relatives or lovers. Take a look at Lisa and Brian Sugar of POPSUGAR, Julia and Kevin Hartz of Eventbrite or even Bill Gates and Paul Allen for that matter. What you’ll notice is that both of them had a clear idea of each other’s shortcomings that intuitively defined their areas of responsibility. Each of their diverse personalities and skills sets could complement their shared goals within limited resources.

2. Resolving conflicts are easier: In the world of business, the biggest struggle is navigating relationships as they get bombarded day-in-day out with the stress and pressures of life. The best part? Your wife husband who now works with you actually has the sensitivity to understand your troubles since you both already share a high level of trust and comfort. And even if there’s a difference in opinion, you’re probably going to let it go for the greater good of your business. What’s even better is that your employees have the choice of approaching and confiding in either of you in case of personal conflicts.

3. Commitments are taken seriously: Having a shared business together means that one unattended hole in the boat, and you’ll both be drowning into the big bad sea. Since the stakes are higher, you’re likely to be more passionate and accountable to your company, your clients and your employees. Even if you’re having one of “those days” then rest assured, they are always someone you can count on.

The Cons

1. No work-life balance: For the both of you, pillow talk will mean discussing deadlines and solving issues that you’ll never be immune from. Unless you draw some serious boundaries at home, you both will probably end up working on weekends also. And when it comes to taking long family holidays or celebrating birthdays and anniversaries, you’ll have to think twice. A real problem is when one of you doesn’t show up – because then your partner is most likely going to have to bear with the brunt of all your work.

2. Financially risky: For every start-up that has succeeded – a hundred have failed. Especially with the unpredictability of our economy, it’s a lot lets riskier if your partner has an alternative job with a stable income. Starting a joint venture together, means there’s no back up. This makes it even more paramount to ensure that your partner is equally as passionate as you when it comes to starting out together, because that means altering your lifestyle till you actually see returns.

3. Differences in opinions: Having a different perspective is usually healthy – because it helps you see potential pitfalls that you may not have anticipated. But, if you’re not able to communicate effectively and clear the air in time, then problems can internally build up and cause havoc. Lack of mutual respect and complete avoidance of the other, can snowball into bigger issues in your personal life.

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Q1. What is my first step at targeting audiences?

It’s important to create a “why us” value proposition for your product. Be ready to stay in test and refine mode, as you move forward. Many startups and entrepreneurs get so caught up in their business plan and trying to execute it, they forget the most important aspect, which is the market. It is important to move out of your cubicle and office space and go out and discover more.

Q2. Do I start small or look at the bigger market?

You definitely need to start with the smallest group possible. It may seem contradictory to many who are starting a business, but it’s vital to find a group who think what you offer is special. Finding a narrow group with extremely specific demographics or a specifically targeted problem is the key. It’s easy to expand your reach after you gain traction, but it’s always the best to be a big player in the smaller markets.

Q3. Is it vital to keep resources aside for my research or can I just analyze?

The customers who currently buy your product are your audience and it is extremely important to understand who they are, their characteristics and their buying patterns. Analyze the elements that worked with your marketing strategy that connected with your audience. It is obviously important to invest in customer relationship management software for small businesses. Use tools and software to see your customers’ geographic distribution, age range, habits and other valuable insights.

Q4. How important is it to study the role of my competitors in the industry?

If you’re lucky and blessed, you’ve invented a product that the world has never seen. However, it isn’t so easy always. It’s extremely important to check out the competition that sells similar products to yours. Look not only at the big players, but even the upcoming startups. Start thinking of ways that would persuade your customers to switch to your product. Make your product more desirable. Study your competitors and their success and how they connected to their audiences. Along with success, study their failures as well so you can avoid them.

Q5. How to create an audience profile?

The ideal customer profile contains not only demographic but also psychographic information. Demographics describe aspects like gender, age, income, marital status, job status, education levels, etc. Psychographics identify hobbies, behaviors, habits, lifestyle choices, values, and interests. It is also important to give equal weightage to both these factors as they go hand in hand.

Q6. What is my next step?

After you have figured your audience, it is important to envision your product and your company five years into the future. Both your business and your customers need to move forward in the same direction. Be aware of all the technology changes related to your product. And remember, as your business evolves, your customer base will also shift. But once you’ve found your target audience, the transition won’t be too difficult.

Hope this would guide you into finding the ideal audience, for more queries comment below!

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It’s no surprise that great businesses are often built on solid human capital. That means constantly having to network and collaborate with others – be it your eccentric employees, unreasonable clients or an over demanding boss. But sometimes, winning them over to see your side of the story can be quite a task. For what seems like a stalemate, simply follow our zodiac manual to crack the code to their entrepreneurial mind…

AQUARIUS (January 22 – February 21)

They are known to be true visionaries who are constantly pushing to break social norms. Traditional and conservative is not their style and they love hearing about fresh and new ideas that have yet to be discovered. Adaptive and innovative, it is best to consider them as decision-making equals, since they are probably ten steps ahead of you in terms of creativity.

PISCES (February 22 – March 20)

Their generous sense of spirituality and service to others makes negotiating with a Pisces – easy and effortless. To win them over, show them the greater good behind your motives over a great fine dine. Idealistic, empathetic and caring, they will lend steady support to social and humanitarian projects, while their knack for being organised and detailed will help you execute your projects to perfection.

ARIES (March 21 – April 20)

Assertive, dynamic and courageous are a few words that describe these folks. They adore a healthy amount of risk and adventure and will be the first of the lot to take a brave leap. Get them to tune in by being point-blank straightforward and allowing them to take centre stage in form of sincere compliments and leadership positions. Their world revolves around genuine warmth and affection and they look up to those who inspire them!

TAURUS (April 21 – May 20)

Show them the money through concrete numbers, because for them comfort and security rank very high. They are hardworking, dependable and practical but also very rigid in their goals. Never rush them into making decisions since they like to take their own sweet time to think things through. If you really want their support, then statistics and a steady plan for the future will do the trick.

GEMINI (May 21 – June 21)

Sell them your idea like a true salesman, and they will buy it. Known for being social butterflies and great communicators, they love like-minded people who are equally as charming and enigmatic as them. Since they are very knowledgeable, they can be great teachers when it comes to their field. Remember to stay in their good books by being extremely diplomatic, at all times.

CANCER (June 22 – July 20)

Sensitive and nurturing, Cancerians use their emotional feelers to respond to their surroundings. Their body language and expressions will tell you everything you need to know. If you’re at a deadlock with them, then acknowledge their contributions and they’ll be on cloud nine. Being kind and understanding about   their dreams will win you their support in return!

LEO (July 21 – August 20)

Give them a chance to shine! These kind, vivacious and artistic personalities love being classy and centre-stage. Want a Leo on your team? Then simply consider adding value to their reputation and image. For them, loyalty and friendship is above anything else, so don’t ever break their trust. Known for being great managers, they will know how to strike the perfect balance between work and play.

VIRGO (August 21 – September 22)

This category signifies all the number crunchers and organisers that believe in logic and statistics over unpredictable emotions and gut instincts. They tend to hold on to order and tiny details with acute focus. If you’re banking on them in the long term, then get them to look at the bigger picture and how it could align with their personal goals. Also, don’t forget to over look all the details before approaching them, as they can tend to be highly critical.

LIBRA (September 23 – October 21)

They bent towards partnership and compromise, often finds them in positions where they believe in keeping everyone happy. Show them a general consensus, and they will be more likely to hear your plans. Just be clear about what you want and choose your words carefully as their investigative sense leaves no stoned unturned.

SCORPIO (October 22 – November 20)

These all-rounders are drawn to all that’s complex and analytical as they can achieve anything in difficult situations with flying colours. They appreciate go-getters and reliable people who can align with their goals. Sometimes, they might be sensitive due to their strong intuitive abilities but all you have to do is motivate them with a fair share of passion, risk and challenge.

SAGITTARIUS (November 21 – December 22)

They are fun, enthusiastic and optimistic who are constantly on the lookout to further their knowledge. They wear their heart on their sleeve and are naturally attracted to opportunities that involve travel and leisure. Their strong sense of independence makes it difficult to commit to one single thing but if you manage to show them the bigger picture of your bargain, then you might just have an audience!

CAPRICORN (December 21 – January 20)

They are masters of strategy and implementation. Make sure you show them your ideas, as they will help you execute them with ease. Known for being poker-faced businessmen, they will often keep their feelings to themselves. Getting to know them on a personal level, can earn you their support and companionship, come what may.

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