Investor terms significantly influence how startups grow, scale, and navigate the complexities of funding rounds. With two decades immersed in the startup career and business, I’ve navigated investment terms skillfully avoided numerous death traps during negotiations. These terms dictate the financial and operational framework that founders and investors operate within. Understanding and negotiating these terms…
An exit strategy is a critical milestone for startups, representing the culmination of years of effort, growth, and innovation. That’s why I committed to working with startups early in my career. Two decades later, I’ve been part of successful exits for both My tech startup and the companies I’ve worked for. For founders and investors,…
When startups raise funds, they often trade a portion of their equity for capital. Having been part of multiple startups during my two-decade-long tech career, I’ve witnessed firsthand how startup investment operates. This process can lead to equity dilution, reducing the ownership percentage of founders and existing shareholders. While equity dilution is an essential aspect…
Starting and scaling a business often requires external funding, and understanding the various types of investors is key to attracting the right capital. With nearly two decades in the startup ecosystem, I’ve gained a clear understanding that each type of investor comes with distinct criteria, investment styles, and expectations. Whether you’re a budding entrepreneur seeking…
Mahatma Gandhi inspired millions with his principles of truth, non-violence, and simplicity. These principles are not limited to political or social movements; they can revolutionize how tech teams operate today. Today’s tech industry thrives on collaboration, innovation, and constant problem-solving, and by applying Gandhi’s timeless values, teams can enhance productivity, morale, and efficiency. Drawing on…
Terminating an employee is one of the most challenging responsibilities for a manager or HR professional, particularly in India, where job-related emotions run high. Despite its difficulty, it’s essential to handle this process with the highest level of dignity and respect to maintain a positive company culture and minimize legal risks. Moreover, firing an employee…
In the booming world of technology, where innovation and agility are paramount, the success of a team hinges not just on technical expertise but also on the Psychological Safety of its members. Psychological safety is the foundation upon which high-performing tech teams are built. It creates an environment where individuals feel comfortable taking risks, sharing…
A few months ago, I wrote about how work-life balance is a myth, a viewpoint I still hold. However, recognizing the early signs of dissatisfaction is crucial in improving the organizational environment. Having been part of several tech companies over the years, I can confidently say that burnout has become an increasingly prevalent issue, impacting…
In the ever-evolving world of technology, hiring the right talent is an art in itself. While many startups focus on short-term goals, larger companies plan for the long haul, looking three to five years ahead. This raises a critical question: Should you hire someone who meets your immediate needs or someone who aligns perfectly with…
Within the intricate fabric of our existence, lies a realm that surpasses the constraints of material assessment—the domain of passion. Bike riding and running my own startup define my passions. Through my pursuit of these dreams, I traveled on a motivational journey, delving into the profound significance and immeasurable value of following one’s passions. In…
In the dynamic landscape of the modern workplace, understanding the nuances between burden, responsibility, and ownership is crucial for professional growth and success. These three concepts, often used interchangeably, carry distinct meanings that can significantly impact one’s approach to work and job performance. By understanding this, one can find motivating truth: learning how to love…
In our professional lives, the workplace should ideally be a space where growth, collaboration, and inspiration thrive. However, the unfortunate reality for many is the existence of toxic work environments that can stifle personal and professional development. Recognizing the signs and knowing how to navigate through these challenges is crucial for maintaining well-being and productivity.…
In recent times, the topic of work hours has sparked a heated debate, particularly in the context of the 70-hour workweek advocated by business magnate Narayan Murthy of Infosys. While some argue that such extensive hours can compromise work-life balance, others believe that this approach harks back to a time when commitment to work was…
The entrepreneurial journey is an exhilarating adventure, filled with challenges and opportunities. One of the key milestones for any startup is the development of the Minimum Viable Product (MVP). Over the years, I have navigated the intricate paths of ideation, development, and investor engagement, witnessing firsthand the transformative power of a well-crafted Minimum Viable Product…
In today’s world, technology and business have become inseparable, the lure of keep improving tech in business can lead employees in both startups and growing companies down a treacherous path known as Resume-Driven Development (RDD). RDD occurs when employees prioritize adding new technologies to their resumes over aligning with the company’s core tech stack and…
Launching a startup in today’s ever-evolving business landscape can often feel like diving headfirst into a world brimming with unfamiliar terminology. Beyond the creativity and determination that fuel your entrepreneurial spirit, grasping the lingo of the startup ecosystem is paramount. It’s the language that allows you to communicate effectively with investors, partners, and team members,…
Starting a new business is an exhilarating journey that involves numerous challenges and decisions. As a startup entrepreneur, understanding your company’s financial health is crucial. Two key metrics that you need to grasp are the “Top Line” and “Bottom Line.” These metrics are essential for assessing your startup’s performance, making informed decisions, and steering your…
In the realm of decision making, having a structured and systematic approach can significantly enhance our ability to navigate complex choices. One technique that has not only stood the test of time but is also my personal favorite when it comes to choosing from multiple options available is the Pros and Cons list. This simple…
In our previous blog, we delved into the art of decision making, recognizing the significance of employing a well-defined framework to empower us in making informed choices. Among the plethora of techniques available, one stands out as a true powerhouse: SWOT analysis. An acronym for Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats, this dynamic approach holds the…
In the journey of personal and professional development, adopting a growth mindset is a catalyst for unleashing untapped potential and achieving remarkable growth. In this blog post, we deep dive into the concept of a growth mindset, explore different techniques to cultivate it, and exemplify its impact on both personal and professional spheres. By understanding…
