5 tips for creating a global start-up

Companies that succeed quickly need to transcend the rules…and borders. If the objective is exponential growth, an ability to scale very quickly and potentially become the future unicorn, you have to think globally from Day 1. #ThinkBigOrGoHome.

Here are my 5 tips for entrepreneurs who think big:

1. Surround yourself with the right people 

It is essential, imperative, major (I can’t say it enough) to build a team that holds up. Forget friends or convenience, don't try to fit people into boxes, and don't focus on titles – find people who believe in the project, who imagine it evolving, who are as dedicated as you are. Above all, find complementary profiles! A clone of yourself won’t be of any help to you! 

2. Define your momentum 

Deciding the precise moment when you are going to launch your product/service is very important. Make sure that the stars are aligned, your task will only be easier! The best way to do this is thinking in terms of a workback plan: start by identifying the ideal date for your launch and then work backwards to identify your key dates and the items you need to get started. 

3. Questioning legal and regulatory constraints

Nothing new here: the laws and regulations are not the same in all countries. When you think global, it’s necessary to be able to deploy quickly in several markets. To do this, you have to be sure that the process of bringing your product/service to market won’t be too long or expensive. However, a thorough research phase is necessary to make sure that you're compliant with all laws and regulations. Don't skip it, once the launch machine gets rolling, it will be too late. 

4. Don’t be afraid to succeed

Restricted ambitions won’t help you create a global project. On one hand, great ambitions can lead to failure, we must be aware of this. Being ambitious requires being ready to accept the ups and downs of entrepreneurship. However, setting very high ambitions can give you the means and motivation you need to perform. There is no net, you have to succeed.

5. Be persistent but not stubborn

And then… at worst: you will have learned from this failure and you will only bounce higher!

Taking risks does not mean being stubborn. Not being afraid of risk does not mean refusing failure. It is important not to take resilience too far. Let's take the example of our American friends, and more specifically Californians, for whom failure has been desanctified and is just one more step on the road to success.

Rest assured: success is a succession of failures.

Bonus

Learn to listen. Your idea is brilliant, I'm sure. But believe me: you have to learn from everyone. Don’t be too headstrong – listen to your loved ones, the people you meet, the experts in your sector. Learn! Life is all about learning. And most important, have fun… !