We recently saw the following list of items on one of our peer’s news feed and could instantly relate to it – just as many others in the business world probably did.
According to the list, which included 9 points, these are the criteria according to which you can tell if someone really knows what they’re talking about (obviously we couldn’t resist adding a 10th):
1. If they know how to explain it to a 6-year-old child, they probably understand it.
2. If they know how to draw it, they probably understand it.
3. If they know how to measure it.
4. If they know to demonstrate what it’s like in real life.
5. If they know how to describe it as a process.
6. If they know what to do even if there’s something missing in it.
7. If they don’t need a presentation in order to talk about it.
8. If they know how to divide it into 3 parts.
9. If they know how to start talking about it from the end.
10. If they know what 3 things they like about it, and what 3 things they would like to improve.
Professionals who have been involved in their field for a while (let’s say more than 10 years), will probably answer all of these questions with a resounding “yes.” Experience and consistency are certainly priceless as far as it concerns reaching an undeniable level of professional expertise. Furthermore, if you’re also mindful of your story, your experiences, lessons, and prices paid along the way – that enriches your expertise with an even broader and deeper understanding.
However, when you’re a startup leader, it’s fair to say you’ve got a bit less than 12-15 years to reach a high level of ‘knowing your thing.’ Startups, being the newest organizational form of the 21st century, challenge us in many new unique ways. One of which is the need to demonstrate a great deal of research-based knowledge and experience-based wisdom in a very short amount of time.
As startup analysts who have long been involved with startups assessments in pre-investment stages, here at 3P Model, we’ve developed our own expertise in identifying ‘if someone really knows what they’re talking about.’ (That, by the way, is almost always the most significant positive indicator for startups’ potential to succeed).
One of our core missions is to help entrepreneurs develop their businesses in a way which makes them knowledgeable, finely-tuned to their business environment, and mindful of their growth. We help leaders of startups develop all of those perquisites for success and more, in a blisteringly short period of time.
We’re continually guiding startup leaders in creating a strong entrepreneurial identity while crystallizing their message and unique voice. We don’t stop until entrepreneurs reach the point where they’re naturally able to stand in front of others and talk about their subject as if they’re an industry expert. In fact, with our guidance, they do indeed become worthy of such a title.
At 3P Model, we bring the frameworks, body of knowledge and tools needed for startups to accomplish these purposes. Whether you’re a founder, investor, or educational innovator, contact us to hear about the numerous possibilities you have available with us in your corner.
It may well open your eyes to a whole new world of possibilities.