Just follow through

So many people in this world are flakey, distractible, and unreliable. In my experience, the best founders are the ones who consistently prove their ability to follow through on their goals and promises. That’s why I sometimes use the “Pitch Test”…

Six weeks after a pitch meeting, I’ll email the founder to check in and see how they’re doing. I’ll ask them specific questions about their progress toward milestones and details related to what they pitched me just a month and a half earlier.

Oftentimes, many of those founders have made little to no progress. Other times, they’ve pivoted, changed their idea, or given up entirely.

If they can’t consistently pursue their strategy or business plan for 6 weeks, how can they build a company for 6+ years?

The founders who demonstrate their ability to follow through are the ones who raise capital, hire great talent, and win new business.

The lesson here is simple: The key to success is to do what you say you’re going to do. Be consistent, remain focused, and be disciplined.

The very best things in life take time.