Embracing the Startup Grind: How a Strong Mentality Propels Success

Embarking on a startup journey requires more than just technical skills or an impressive resume; it demands a unique mentality—one that is open-minded, flexible, and ready to roll up its sleeves for the sake of innovation and growth. This mindset is what turns challenges into learning opportunities and uncertainties into exciting ventures. As someone who has walked this path, let me share a story from my time at fuboTV, an early-stage startup in 2017, that perfectly encapsulates the essence of this mentality.

The fuboTV Story: Day Two and Beyond

Picture this: it’s my second day at fuboTV, a budding startup with big dreams of revolutionizing how we watch TV. I'm settling into my new role, absorbing the electric atmosphere, when one of our founders approaches me. With a look that’s a mix of excitement and urgency, he asks, “Hey, Eber, how do you feel about diving into content acquisition and licensing agreements?” Now, I had no prior experience in this area—my background was in platform expansion and true product development. Content deals? That was an entirely different universe.

But this is where the startup mentality comes into play. Instead of shying away, I embraced the challenge with open-mindedness and a willingness to dive into the unknown. These content licensing agreements were no walk in the park. They covered everything from acquiring feeds via satellite, fiber, or direct connect to negotiating advertising revenue share splits, channel positioning on the EPG (Editorial Programming Guide), and bundling guidelines. The learning curve was steep, but my belief in fuboTV’s vision fueled my drive.

The Power of Belief and Flexibility

Belief in the product is the cornerstone of thriving in a startup environment. My conviction in fuboTV's potential made it easier to tackle tasks beyond my original job description. Over four years, I found myself donning multiple hats, often working long hours and handling responsibilities that were not strictly product-related. This flexibility and willingness to step out of my comfort zone transformed me into a stronger leader and a subject matter expert in all things content and end-to-end video ops.

The journey wasn't just a personal win for me; it was a triumph for the entire team. We watched fuboTV grow from a small startup to becoming a publicly traded company. Seeing our hard work culminate in such a significant milestone was incredibly rewarding. It was proof that the sleepless nights, the countless meetings, and the relentless pursuit of excellence were all worth it.

Advice for Aspiring Startup Enthusiasts

If you’re contemplating joining a startup, here are some nuggets of wisdom to consider:

1. Believe in the Product: Your belief in the product will be your driving force, especially when the going gets tough. Ensure the startup’s vision aligns with your passions and values.
2. Embrace Flexibility: Be prepared to wear multiple hats and take on tasks outside your job description. This flexibility is crucial for personal growth and the startup’s success.
3. Expect Long Hours: Startups often require sacrifices, including longer working hours. Be ready to put in the time and effort needed to push the product towards success.
4. Learn Continuously: The startup environment is a goldmine for learning. Embrace every challenge as an opportunity to expand your skill set and knowledge base.
5. Assess the Risks: Understand that startups come with inherent risks. While the potential for success is high, there’s also a chance of failure. Weigh these risks against your career goals and personal circumstances.

How to Determine Whether to Join a Startup

Deciding to join a startup is a significant decision that requires careful consideration. Here are some factors to keep in mind:

1. Company Vision and Mission: Do you believe in the company’s vision and mission? If you’re passionate about what the startup aims to achieve, it can be a powerful motivator.
2. Market Potential: Research the market the startup is entering. Is there a genuine need for the product or service? Does the market have growth potential?
3. Leadership Team: Evaluate the startup’s leadership team. Do they have a track record of success? Are they experienced and capable of guiding the company through challenges?
4. Company Culture: Consider the startup’s culture. Does it align with your values and work style? A good cultural fit can make a significant difference in your job satisfaction.
5. Financial Health: Assess the startup’s financial health. Do they have sufficient funding? Are they generating revenue? Understanding the financial stability can help you gauge the company’s longevity.
6. Career Growth Opportunities: Look at the potential for career growth within the startup. Will you have opportunities to learn new skills, take on new responsibilities, and advance your career?
7. Risk Tolerance: Reflect on your risk tolerance. Startups can be volatile, with the potential for both high rewards and high risks. Ensure you’re comfortable with the uncertainty that comes with startup life.
8. Work-Life Balance: Be realistic about the demands of working at a startup. Are you prepared for long hours and potentially high-stress situations? Balance your career aspirations with your personal well-being.

Final Thoughts

Joining a startup is not for the faint-hearted. It requires a strong mentality, an open mind, and a readiness to tackle the unexpected. My journey with fuboTV taught me invaluable lessons and made me a more resilient and versatile leader. If you’re up for the challenge, the startup world can offer unparalleled growth and the thrill of contributing to something groundbreaking.

So, roll up your sleeves, dive in with an open mind, and let your belief in the product guide you. The journey may be tough, but the rewards are worth it. From early-stage startup to a publicly traded company, the experience is a testament to the power of a strong mentality and unwavering dedication.

By embracing the startup grind and making informed decisions about where to invest your talents, you can set yourself on a path to remarkable career growth and fulfillment.

If you are looking for any guidance or advice while you are on your product journey please don't hesitate to reach out. I'm an open book. I'm always free to chop it up or talk shop.