1. I have been trying to find the best "first question" to ask a startup when I meet with them. After many iterations, I think I have it. Here it is, and here's why it works.
— Gokul Rajaram (gokul.eth) (@gokulr) May 6, 2022
2. The question is "Tell me your founding story".
— Gokul Rajaram (gokul.eth) (@gokulr) May 6, 2022
Here's why it's a good first question.
That is not a question. That sounds like a command.
— Paramendra Kumar Bhagat (@paramendra) May 6, 2022
3. It puts the founders at ease. Instead of being quizzed upfront about market size, competition, or business model, they get to tell a story. And who doesn't like story telling? It helps ease into the conversation.
— Gokul Rajaram (gokul.eth) (@gokulr) May 6, 2022
4. It gives insight into how the founders encountered the problem they are trying to solve. The more first-hand their experience with this problem, either at life or work, the better. Authenticity of founder-problem fit should lead to unique, non-obvious insights.
— Gokul Rajaram (gokul.eth) (@gokulr) May 6, 2022
5. It sheds light on the depth of the founder relationship. Did they just meet up a month ago, or have they known and worked with each other for a decade? Founder breakup or general lack of alignment is a top reason behind early startup failure.
— Gokul Rajaram (gokul.eth) (@gokulr) May 6, 2022
6. Ultimately, this is the analogue of "Tell me about yourself", which IMO is an excellent first question for interview candidates. A simple question that reveals a ton about the company and founders, their motivations and relationship, and sets the stage for deeper exploration.
— Gokul Rajaram (gokul.eth) (@gokulr) May 6, 2022
7. Finally, it also shows how well the founders communicate. A rambling story makes me doubt that the founders can communicate and inspire employees, investors & other stakeholders. So much of a startup success is Narrative, and the founding story is the foundational narrative.
— Gokul Rajaram (gokul.eth) (@gokulr) May 6, 2022
8. Startup founders: do practice telling your founding story crisply and in a way that highlights the authenticity of your mission, speaks to the depth of your founder relationship, and showcases your ability to inspire.
— Gokul Rajaram (gokul.eth) (@gokulr) May 6, 2022
What if I write it for you? Here goes: https://t.co/XazOfdPt28 Please listen to the audio on @rarible
— Paramendra Kumar Bhagat (@paramendra) May 6, 2022
— Paramendra Kumar Bhagat (@paramendra) May 6, 2022
