StartUp Founders : You have to learn how to listen (understand the signals)

In the dynamic world of startups, one’s ability to listen effectively – to understand the signals, can make or break a venture. I have often underscored the importance of this skill in my practice as a Startup Consultant, and a particular incident reinforced this value to me.

A response to one of my posts sparked a reflection. The comment, suggesting that I was wrong, was not an attack but an opportunity. It prompted me to introspect: Did I articulate my point effectively? Could my message have been conveyed differently? What assumptions underpinned my statements and, likewise, what assumptions did the responder make?

Such interactions underscore the significance of having diverse perspectives in your circle. These varying viewpoints challenge your own, inciting questions and encouraging you to reevaluate your position. This practice finds different monikers in different contexts – some call it the ’10th man rule’, others refer to it as the ‘challenger role.’ Regardless of the terminology, the essence remains the same: the counter perspective.

It’s a requirement for someone in the team to argue against an idea, to question its merit, regardless of their personal beliefs. It doesn’t imply that the counter viewpoint is inherently right or wrong; instead, it is an exercise in rigor. It challenges you to consider the assumptions you made and to ponder those of your interlocutor. It invites you to think about how you might approach the same issue differently in light of this new perspective.

A sentiment that resonates well with this perspective is one shared by Elon Musk, the man behind path-breaking ventures like SpaceX and Tesla. Known for encouraging a culture of critical feedback within his companies, Musk once said, “A well thought out critique of whatever you’re doing is as valuable as gold.”

This practice, understandably, can sometimes lead to a “red face moment”. When you gather a diverse group, you invariably encounter questions that challenge your understanding and assumptions, causing an embarrassing moment of realization. However, these moments are incredibly valuable, as they incite thinking, evolution, and progression. They help you to harness diverse feedback and to refine your decision-making process, ultimately enhancing the trajectory of your venture.