6 Important Lessons that I’ve Learnt in My Transition from a Techie to an Entrepreneur

I belong to a breed of entrepreneurs who did not have any background or formal education in business. 12 years back, when I got into my first job, while still pursuing my graduation in computers, it did not take much time to sense that I liked doing things a certain way which was not possible when you work under someone, unless you’re lucky.

I have always been fascinated about coding & internet. Later I realized that my fascination for coding and internet is not mere an affection, but a true passionate love. Coding allowed me to give shape to ideas that could solve different problems. This seemed like a magical power that I had full control on. This feeling itself was my biggest motivation to take the plunge and start VOCSO, a Digital Creative Agency. Since then I've learnt a lot, I learn every day. But certain learnings are so immense, they've impacted my perspective towards the whole thing.

Assess how you interact with your employees. Giving orders without inviting inputs and ideas to find better solution means you’re under utilizing your team’s capabilities. At the same time you’re also turning into a BOSS, which most of your team will end of hating.

Your team should not hesitate in communicating anything to you or with you. A good leader will motivate and lead them towards the solution.

Leadership is an infectious quality, which tenders to spread and create followers, who you do not have to order.

I have struggled a lot during my initial entrepreneurial journey and suffered greatly. If you’re building a product based company, it’s important to get early to the market. Perfection should be built into your process, it should not be your goal. If you keep chasing it, you may never be too happy and you will only delay the launch. Build your product in the phased manner and keep improving that.

When I was reading EMyth by legendary Michael E Gerber, I could relate it to my situation. Tech turned entrepreneurs often tend to do everything on their own. It’s easy to get carried away, if you do not like the work of your employee. This only increases overheads. Learn ways to delegate tasks efficiently, while it may still require your leadership, doing everything on your own will prove to be a hinderance.

Self analysis is important and crucial to identify ways to nurture and grow your own skills. Entrepreneurs are not rigid, they are always eager to learn and improve. Do not take criticism in a negative way, use them to your advantage. You’ll notice an EVOLVED you, when you look back a few years down the line.

Automation is not an option anymore. Sure you can hire an extra employee to do certain part of your business or spend your own time. But will it not be better if the work gets done in a smarter way and you get a few extra hours every day to accomplish other important tasks or simply watch your favourite sports on TV?

My second venture, TutorCity.in saw more than 45% growth just by automat

Entrepreneurship does not only mean 18 hours a day and burning nights. True goal in life is to be successful and happy. There is never a good time to enjoy life than now. There are certain things which you can never get back. Find time out of your busy schedule to spend with your family meet and hangout with your friends, play your favourite sport or simply do your favourite thing. You will never be able to do or experience what you can today after 10 or 20 years from now.

No wonder, I still enjoy being a coder. It’s because I built my career and business around my passion. I would love to read your comments and experiences about your own journey. Do not hesitate to post in the comment below, even if you disagree with any of my views :)