An advisory board is critical when it comes to first-time app startups. As an entrepreneur, you may have a brilliant idea and maybe even a working prototype, but that is not all that it takes to build a startup geared to scale. Here are some of the top reasons why you should be interviewing for your very own advisory board today.
Their Experience
If you find yourself with a challenge that you did not see coming, chances are your advisor has already tackled such obstacles and can offer you the wisdom on how to solve the problem. A good idea would be to hire advisors who know more about things that you are the least proficient in.
Helps in Pitches
When seeking funding your prospective investors are not only looking at your product and your plan but also the people who will be executing this plan. Having advisors that know what they are doing with a history of working for impressive companies is a great way to build confidence in your investors.
Expand your Network
Advisors bring with them a myriad of connections that can be useful in the success of your business. It is important that you are explicit with your advisors that you would like certain introductions in the industry. When advisors vouch for you with a contact it becomes more than just setting up a meeting, but something that might prove to be fruitful for your app startup.
Personal Growth
Great advisors have worked with a lot of entrepreneurs and that means they can teach you things you need to know when it comes to growing as a leader.
A Different Perspective
An advisory board may just be the only thing to break through to entrepreneurs who are not used to listening to anyone but their gut when it comes to making critical business decisions. Sometimes the board can keep you from making bad decisions, or help you see the repercussions of potential actions that you may not be aware of.
Make you Credible
With a reputable advisory board working for your startup, you automatically appear more credible in the marketplace. Oftentimes, this is all the buzz you need to get things started.
When hiring advisors you have to ask yourself the important questions. So you have narrowed down candidates that check all the technical boxes, now you need someone who brings value beyond their resume.
You want to be asking if the person you are hiring brings anything other than what you know and what the other advisory board members already know. You don’t want multiple advisors who will tell you the same thing. You want someone with a different approach of doing things.
You also want to know whether an advisor fits with your values, whether they are cultural, moral etc. You want someone with integrity so that you may be able to allow them to help you grow personally as well as professionally.