What are the critical factors for success when starting a business?
“You have to have something to sell that people want. Then you have to really know your customer, your market and your product through and through. That’s why I believe that the best time to go into business is when you’re young. Specific product knowledge is much more important than a whole load of management experience. You can turn to those around you for that. And that’s why having good people around you is the second critical success factor. Surround yourself with experienced people who can be an example to you and who can advise and assist you. There are plenty of business people and managers in industry who are well-disposed towards young entrepreneurs and really want to help. Go and talk to them. When they see that you really want to have a go, there’s a good chance they’ll jump on board. You’ll get the support, but you have to have the courage to take that step yourself. “The third important point is transparency. Be open about your agenda and what you want to do. The final ke
