Founders at Work
I think Founders at Work, written by Jessica Livingston, is going to be a fantastic read for entrepreneurs.
I’ve read 4 founder interviews so far (Excite, PayPal, Blogger & Apple) - it’s definitely one of those books you can’t put down.
Why?
Firstly, unlike lots of other tech/start up books, there is no unnecessary narrative that dilutes the points being made (and there are a lot of different startup stories condensed into this one book).
Secondly, it focuses on the early start-up period, which is by far the most interesting part of a company’s history. I think it’s great that it is in the format of an interview, reading what the entrepreneurs’ have to say in their own words is invaluable, and page for page is worth 100x anything written by journalists.
And finally, this book gives plenty of inspiration by truly revealing just how many unknowns there are in the early days of any company, and of course, how valuable persistence is. This is unlike a lot of other books, which give the impression of founders being superhuman individuals, who are enacting this great vision. Founding a successful company really is an iterative process, it most certainly won’t grow as you originally expect it to.
Thank you Jessica!
Douglas McFarlane Feb 13
Hi there
I read your blog from the BBC and I agree with the points you make. I’ve been running film and theatre networking sites since 1999 where the concept and spirit of people creating productions through collaboration is encouraged and supported. Around 10,000 people collaborate but this is still tiny in comparison to what it could be.
I’m covering the Oscars at the end of February and in a few short emails I have put together a documentary production with actors, directors, film crew, writers and presenters who work in Hollywood. I’ve even been offered a room for the weekend ! The feature is called “Making It In Hollywood” and this entrepreneurial spirit that you speak of is definitely evident and it will undoubtedly be core to theme of my video diary.
BBC Radio 5 are interviewing me over the weekend to hear more about the journey, so they are definitely switched on to the new world order.
Boso.com looks great. I wish you all the best and do keep in touch. Perhaps we can collaborate across the pond !
Douglas McFarlane
Actor and Editor
UK Theatre and Film Network
Here’s my web link