The model that I’m taking for building Grasshopper New Media is pretty much the model of my success throughout 2006. I’m not talking success in the mindset of making a gazillion dollars, because I’m still working a day job, and I’m still doing lots too many hours for what I’m getting back (which is not measured yet in dollars).
What I am getting back, however, is of great value. For instance, here are some skills I’m learning and developing:
- Networking- how to do more than just swap emails with people. (a la my GoToGuys list and GNM, really).
- Promotion/marketing- I’m certainly not a genius, but with help and experience, I’m learning how to do new things with getting the word out
- WordPress – Slowly, I’m figuring out how to edit and build WordPress blogs, how to tweak them, how to work with my host to get them online (more on that as they roll out.
- Virtual Project Management- of all the skills, this one seems really useful. I’m building a project plan that I think I’ll be able to execute with a team of superstars from around the globe (uh, that’s you). It’s different than project managing in the office, because there’s lots of things that are harder to explain at a distance, and the “handoff” breaks are slightly different.
- Crosshatching- because I’m still very much engaged with my day job (and I’m truly passionate about that job- it’s just that times are tough here), I’ve learned all kinds of skills that let me keep my day job separate. That’s very important. I might be split-minded, but I will strive to be useful and important to the job that’s paying my bills.
- Seed Investment- I am, however, realizing that my current career is likely more a “job” right now, and that I’m angling to get full time into the new media space. To that end, I’m looking at interesting and non-traditional ways to get paid, because I have a wife and two young children. I can’t just quit, live in a box, and survive on ramen noodles and diet coke.
- Ask- Are you sick of me telling you this? Ask ask ask. Reach out. Get in touch with people. Learn how to ask BETTER. Learn how to position your needs in such a way that someone else can truly help out. This has been VITAL to what I’m doing. That and understanding how to give people even a little value back for their contributions (even if that’s only in the form of link love).
I’m passionate, and you who are kind enough to write me often cite me for that. It’s true. I LOVE talking about this, trying to make it work. I’m passionate about your ideas, too. I can’t remember if I’m allowed to talk about it directly, but one of my new GoToGuys runs a personal assistant type business, and I think HER idea is awesome. I love hearing about people’s ideas and plans. It gives me lots of energy and excitement: for my appreciation of YOU and for what I’m doing over here, as well. And getting GOOD energy into your system is vital. It’s pretty much second only to the support and love of your loved ones.
Believe me, without Katrina, I’d have nothing. I was reminded of that last night. My daughter was having a rough time going to bed. I was trying to interview a new colleague and my wife had finally had it. My daughter was still going a bit nutty, and finally, I had to apologize and cut short the interview. (Thankfully, Michael’s a superhero bar none and let me reschedule).
But it was an IMMEDIATE reminder of how much I need Katrina, and how much my family matters to me. I have so much to thank her for. In fact ,when I look at all the technology I’ve purchased towards this endeavor since March, I think she’s my own personal angel investor, as well as a loving wife, excellent and dedicated mother. Without Katrina, this business will fold. At least in the early phases where it’s 50 hours of work on top of my 40 hours for a paying day job.
I’m in a startup, baby, and you’re all part of it. As I learn more, I’ll share more. Please grow your own capabilities along with me. Share what you learn. Share links to what you think is interesting. Help me grow this through your expertise and talent.