Don’t Apologize For Your Business Decisions

Stay true to the customers you serve and the boundaries you’ve set.

The startup world is eager to dispense advice.

“Do this, not that.”

“Follow these metrics.”

“Here’s the best strategy.”

As if one company’s success is easily transferrable to another company. Spoiler alert: it’s not.

But one thing most founders have in common is that they’re unapologetic. I don’t mean arrogant, but they have a clear vision of what they want and aren’t afraid to go after it.

I spent 15 years in the startup world as both an executive and product manager. Now, I run a successful six-figure business as a solopreneur.

I don’t listen to most of the hustle culture advice. And I also don’t apologize for running my business in a way that makes sense for me and my clients.

Pricing is fun, isn’t it? It’s so easy to compare yourself to other businesses, wondering if you should charge more or less.

In some cases, the market will dictate your pricing, especially if you’re selling a product. But if you’re selling services, it’s much more nuanced.

There’s nothing quite like having a prospective client tell me that I’m “too expensive.”

I’m not too expensive. I’m outside your budget.

You should be able to justify your fees (with expertise, a proven track record, etc.) and have confidence in your pricing. Don’t be tempted to back down just to win a client — it’s a slippery slope that will end in the client not respecting your work as much.

2021, in particular, was a “growth at all costs” year. Venture capital money was free-flowing in the tech world, leading to massive spending and hiring.

And we’ve all seen the fallout from that, with widespread layoffs, budget cuts, and even contributing to the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank.

The lesson, even for entrepreneurs outside the VC and tech worlds? The good times may not last…