If you say it in one sentence, it is: Start-up coaching covers all aspects that are important for successfully founding and running a business. These are quite pragmatic points, such as business plan, target group analysis and others. But it is also about the founder himself or herself – because in order to be successful as a founder, it is important to develop certain skills.
But let’s first go through the points that start-up coaching generally involves. If you have already developed your business idea, the next step is to see whether the market is either ready for this idea, whether it is worth entering this market. It is possible that the market is already so dense that you hardly have a chance as a founder. A thorough market analysis is therefore part of the core of start-up coaching.
Financial planning and corporate strategy
In the next step, the resources are explored, the necessary investments are determined and an income or revenue forecast is created. At .garage Berlin, we use financial plans that are also recognised by the Job Centre and the Employment Agency.
Further points in start-up coaching
Next, we look at marketing, sales and, in general, corporate strategy. This includes setting up marketing strategies and branding the company. Likewise, the unique selling proposition, the competitive strategy and the development of distribution channels are dealt with. In the end, it must be clearly recognisable how the company moves in the market, through which channels it is seen and sells its goods. And who is responsible for what in the company. Which brings us to the next point – the competences of the founder.
Competences of the founder
At this point, we would like to give you an overview of the most important core competencies of founders:
- Self-management: A founder must be able to plan and organise time effectively, set priorities and motivate him/herself.
- Decision-making ability: Founders should be able to make quick and informed decisions, even in unclear and uncertain situations.
- Willingness to take risks: Successful founders must be willing to take risks and learn from mistakes.
- Communication skills: Founders can communicate effectively – be it with customers, employees or business partners.
- Teamwork: Even if a start-up is a one-man show, the founder must be able to work with others and build a team to run the business successfully.
- Flexibility: Founders need to be able to adapt quickly to changing circumstances and remain flexible in order to respond to new opportunities and challenges.
- Perseverance: The path to success is rarely quick and easy. Von Gründer *innen wird erwartet, dass sie durchhalten können und auch in schwierigen Zeiten motiviert und fokussiert bleiben.
- Willingness to learn: Founders must constantly learn and develop in order to run their business successfully.
Conclusion: If you want to start a business, you not only have to plan the business itself thoroughly, but also work on your own skills. Start-up coaching can be very helpful and supportive on this path.
