CS RAKESH CHHOKER’s Post

What's your priority - Building Value or Valuation? When I meet aspiring founders seeking capital, this is one thing that makes a DIFFERENCE! A few questions that I seek: 🔻Does it solve a problem for an addressable market? 🔻What is the purpose of your business? 🔻How will it make a difference? 🔻How does it add value? I have always worked to build core value in my enterprise; if the value is appreciated, valuation usually follows. Chasing valuation without making a real difference is, in my opinion, a short-sighted approach. Well, of course, we can debate on this (I'd love your opinions) If you're building a business for the long run, building value followed by valuation is perhaps the better approach. 𝗕𝘂𝘁, If you want to create a valuation for capital gains or profits then building a valuation first could work. Hoping for quick valuation success in attaining a unicorn status does not happen in reality. Even if it does, it is short-lived. Putting in the hard work every single day and working towards organic growth is usually what is sustainable. PS: I love to guide startups in their entrepreneurial journey via mentoring or consultancy. Look forward to collaborating and helping in making your vision a REALITY. ✨ #BusinessGrowth #Entrepreneurship #StartupAdvice

I had heard of the book "Venture Deals" by Brad Feld and Jason Mendelson as a must read and certainly it has been has been a transformative experience for me. Here are my 🚀5 key takeaways🚀 1. Understanding Term Sheets📄 - Term sheets used to feel like a maze, but Brad and Jason's clear explanations on valuation, liquidation preferences, and anti-dilution provisions have demystified them for me. Now, I feel much more confident in negotiating deals that are fair and beneficial for everyone involved. 2. The Importance of Relationships🤝 - This book reinforced my belief in the power of strong relationships. Venture capital isn't just about funding; it’s about being a true partner to the founders. Building these connections is something I'm passionate about, and I now see how pivotal they are to a startup’s success. 3. Thorough Due Diligence🔍 - I’ve learned that due diligence is non-negotiable. The authors stress how crucial it is to understand the market, evaluate the team, and assess risks. Being meticulous in this process can make all the difference, and it’s something I’m committed to prioritizing. 4. The Role of the Board🏢 - The strategic importance of the board of directors was an eye-opener for me. A well-functioning board can provide invaluable guidance and support. Knowing how to effectively interact with and leverage the board’s expertise is something I’m excited to apply. 5. Negotiation Tactics💬 - Negotiation is more of an art than I realized. The insights on negotiating terms and conditions have given me a fresh perspective. It’s all about finding a balance that aligns the interests of both the investor and the entrepreneur, and I’m eager to put these tactics into practice. 💼#VentureCapital #StartupInvesting #Entrepreneurship #VCInsights💡

The Overlooked Key to Entrepreneurial Success: Having an Exit Plan… Building a successful company from the ground up is the dream of many entrepreneurs. However, amidst the excitement of launching a new venture, one crucial element is often overlooked – having a well-defined exit strategy. An exit strategy shouldn't be an afterthought; it's a vital component that every entrepreneur needs to consider from the very beginning. Here's why: 𝗠𝗮𝘅𝗶𝗺𝗶𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗩𝗮𝗹𝘂𝗲: A company is often an entrepreneur's biggest asset. An exit strategy ensures they can capitalise on their hard work and monetise their efforts when the timing is right, whether through an acquisition, IPO, or other exit routes. 𝗙𝘂𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲 𝗢𝗽𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗲𝘀: Many entrepreneurs have aspirations beyond their current venture. An exit plan allows them to secure the financial resources needed to pursue new endeavours, invest in other businesses, or transition to a different phase of life. 𝗔𝘁𝘁𝗿𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗜𝗻𝘃𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘀: Investors want a clear path to a return on their investment. A solid exit strategy demonstrates foresight and increases a venture's appeal to potential backers. 𝗥𝗶𝘀𝗸 𝗠𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗴𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: Even the most successful businesses can face unforeseen challenges. An exit strategy provides a contingency plan, allowing entrepreneurs to exit on their terms if circumstances demand it. 𝗦𝘂𝗰𝗰𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗣𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴: For those looking to pass the baton, an exit strategy facilitates a smooth transition, ensuring the company's long-term success even after the founders have stepped away. Crafting an exit strategy is a key consideration that should be made from the outset. Whether an entrepreneur envisions an eventual acquisition, public offering, or passing the torch to new leadership, having a plan in place can mean the difference between realising their entrepreneurial dreams and missed opportunities. Remember – an exit strategy isn't just about leaving; it's about maximising the value of your life's work and positioning yourself for future success. DM me if you are planning to sell your Business and let’s chat. #entrepreneur #entrepreneurship #strategy

A well run financial function can help drive your business forwards. Do you agree? #founders #ceo #startups #entrepreneurship

As business owners, what thoughts do you have when you think about finance? Do you wish that the entrepreneurial and commercial thoughts in your head could translate into a clear path forwards for your business? Do you find managing the finances in your business a headache, and a distraction from your core activities? A well run financial function can help drive your business forwards. At The FD Consultant, we simplify the complex. We help SME businesses assess performance, plan for the future, and navigate current challenges. #entrepreneurship #business #startups 

The latest post in our series on Empowering Business Owners For What's Next after a merger or acquisition dives into the world of serial entrepreneurship. If you're ready to turn post-exit energy into another big win, this article will help you explore strategies for building your next successful venture, weigh the pros and cons of starting from scratch vs. investing in existing businesses, and discover how to leverage your past experiences for future success. #SerialEntrepreneur #BusinessStrategy #EntrepreneurialMindset https://lnkd.in/eFQ9pRav

I hate start-ups. I've been in the start-up world for years, and let me tell you, it’s tough out there. With a staggering 90% of new businesses failing within the first five years (thanks for the stats, CB Insights!) and even 75% of VC-backed ventures falling short, the odds aren't exactly in your favor. But here’s a game-changer: Why not skip the startup struggle and opt to buy and build on an existing business? And here's the kicker—you don’t always need upfront cash to make it happen. 🤔 Why play a losing game when you can rewrite the rules? Let’s talk about how acquiring and enhancing an existing business could be your best move yet. #Entrepreneurship #BusinessStrategy #Acquisition

Discussions about exit strategies often take a back seat to the excitement of building and growing a business. However, failing to have a well-defined exit strategy can result in missed opportunities and unnecessary risks. Entrepreneurship is filled with challenges and uncertainties. An exit strategy serves as a guide, helping businesses navigate obstacles and seize opportunities. It can provide clarity and direction, as a roadmap for the future of the business, establishing goals that set the business up for success and growth. An exit plan works as a strategic tool helping businesses succeed in the long term. With a solid exit plan business owners can leave behind a business focused on continued growth. #ExitPlan #ExitStrategy #BusinessExit #ExitRoadmap

It’s true. Starting a new business is like riding a rollercoaster: thrilling highs, challenging lows, and everything in between. Lately, as I’ve been navigating the process of finding investors, overcoming roadblocks, and refining our vision, I’ve been reminded of a few key lessons: 1. Resilience is Everything: Roadblocks are inevitable, whether they’re funding challenges, logistical hurdles, or unexpected setbacks. Each obstacle teaches us something valuable if we choose to see it that way. 2. Positivity Fuels Progress: Surrounding myself with people who believe in the vision has made all the difference. Their encouragement and support keep the fire alive, even on the toughest days. 3. Clarity Attracts Opportunity: The clearer I get about what we’re building and why, the more aligned opportunities seem to appear. Investors, collaborators, and supporters are drawn to confidence and purpose. If you’re in the trenches of building something new, remember: every great story has its struggles. Stay focused, stay persistent, and celebrate the small wins. I try to remind myself of this every day, but hey, still struggle to get out of bed at times! To my fellow entrepreneurs and supporters— how do you stay motivated through the ups and downs? As for the journey, more news soon! #Entrepreneurship #Startups #Resilience #Positivity #BusinessJourney

I asked a prominent business owner, “What are the worst 3 problems one can face if they start a business without a business plan.” He replied as below….. 1️⃣ Lack of Direction: Launching a business without a clear plan can lead to confusion and inefficiency. A well-crafted business plan outlines goals, strategies, and timelines, providing a roadmap for success. 2️⃣ Financial Uncertainty: Without a plan, it's challenging to anticipate financial needs and potential revenue streams. This can result in cash flow issues and unexpected expenses, jeopardizing the business's stability. 3️⃣ Missed Opportunities: A business plan helps identify market trends, competitive landscapes, and growth opportunities. Without it, entrepreneurs risk overlooking crucial insights that could impact their success. Avoid these pitfalls by crafting a comprehensive business plan. It's not just a document—it's your blueprint for a successful venture! 💼✨ Dont forget clicking FAISHARY NGOBYA if you have enjoyed or learnt something from this post. #Entrepreneurship #BusinessPlanning #Startups #BusinessStrategy