20 karma · joined October 14, 2013
Twitter: @bryncdn
GrowSumo makes it easy for SaaS companies to generate revenue through people that recommend products they love.
We’re looking to hire a full stack web developer; as the first technical hire, you’ll help shape the company as it grows. You’ll make significant decisions about the product and will be looked upon as a leader as the company scales.
We use Python/Flash, JavaScript/AngularJS/Node.js, Postgres, Redis, and run on AWS.
Reach out if you have any questions (bryn at growsumo dot com) or apply directly at http://bit.ly/1PQ6WMI. Cheers!
Pod's a group organization tool -- we're like a more functional Facebook Groups. Users organize teams around Pods and people can create tasks, schedule meetings or events, or post in forums.
I will make the changes, but I hope that provides some clarity.
Driving traffic to a landing page validate's that you're good at marketing; signups validate interest from consumers; feedback provides insight for product development. However, none of these actions validate your idea.
Product demo videos provide people the context they require to properly assess the value of your idea. The best demo videos quickly describe the value of the product and then provide a use case which creates context for the audience. Finally, they end with a QUICK walk-through.
Drew Houston launched Dropbox with a product demo https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7QmCUDHpNzE. Try to think of validation as an ongoing process and product demos as the next step.
This might sound cheesy, but fulfillment and happiness are usually achieved in the process of working towards your goal, and are rarely found after an accomplishment.
If he feels like a co-founder then you should be able to have a conversation with him about equity; if things go poorly then the partnership was never meant to be. Use this as an opportunity to discuss commitments and expectations; will he quit his job? how about cover costs?
Some people suggest that equity should be awarded based on set milestones, but I think this strategy makes people feel more like employees than co-founders.
Has your co-founder brought in any sales? Does he have any industry expertise? A strong network of customers/advisors/investors? Is he leaving a high paying job? If the answer to all of the above is no, then it's hard to justify giving him much...
It sounds like you've done all the heavy lifting, but understand there's a lot more to come; ask yourself whether you want to do this on your own; ask yourself whether you want to do this with anyone else.
No one wants to leave their job for anything less than 10% (with no salary). Also, if he's 'your guy,' make sure he feels like a co-founder; someone who can share the pain.
Finally, make sure you sign an agreement wherein the shareholders earn equity after a specific date (this is called a cliff, it typically occurs after 12 months), and that equity vests over a specific period (typically 48 months). You can find a lot of information on shareholder agreements online, but at some point you'll want to see a lawyer.
For every person that learns something on their own, there are many more that pay for courses, tutors, and even private coaching, due to some of the reasons you mentioned. I don't understand why programming is any different.
Has anyone had to answer this question during an interview? Do you think it's a question worth asking?
To extend on something you mentioned, I suggest that you look for volunteer opportunities outside the startup community. The startup community is great, but volunteering with different organizations exposes you to people with diverse backgrounds and different skill sets. Volunteering is great for building a network of people with skills that compliment yours; it allows you to develop genuine relationships with likeminded individuals.
I am not a nutritionist but try eating something small, first thing in the morning, maybe some nuts or a smoothie.