Top 10 Takeaways from Shark Tank

Top 10 Post-Tank Takeaways

1. It takes a village.  There are so many people involved in the creation of our 7-minute segment. We’re so grateful to everyone who played a role.  Producers, directors, runners, assistants, coordinators, drivers, make up, hair, catering, art directors, etc.
2. It’s wildly fun.  We were not nervous.  We were just so excited to be a part of it. It’s a once in a life time experience and unique adventures need to be embraced. 
3. Be comfortable being uncomfortable.  You must be. While taping the show, while prepping for the show, while building a business.  You are charting an unknown course and that’s the thrill, that’s the fun; that’s why you are doing it. 
4. You don’t know what you don’t know.  The epistemological challenges that face every entrepreneur remain a constant during the show.  Remain open minded, ask a lot of questions, and figure things out as you go.
5. The Importance of Being Earnest.  You must embrace your conviction, be focused, and stay driven.
6. Keep George Harrison’s “Got My Mind Set On You” in your head.   It’s an anthem for every entrepreneur : 

   it's gonna take money
   A whole lot of spending money
   It's gonna take plenty of money...to do it right

   It's gonna take time
   A whole lot of precious time
   It's gonna take patience and time...to do it right 

7. Do your homework.  Know the Sharks. Read their books. Know your numbers. Watch the show. It’s formulaic.
8. Practice. Have salient points that you believe are the most critically important factors that you need the Sharks to know.  Refer to them. Master the art of answering a question while delivering the information you need to share.
9. Celebrate it.  If you get on and bomb or if you leave feeling like a Master of the Universe, you have done it and that’s so cool.  We’re so lucky to live in a country that not only encourages entrepreneurs, but fosters and celebrates them. 
10. Shark Tank is an entertaining program that can help to elevates small business to national and international brands. Its message is powerful; regular people, like you, with good ideas, strong work ethics, and a lot of tenacity, can make meaningful contributions to the world.  

           To quote Dr. Seuss,
           Today is your day!
           Your mountain is waiting.
           So...get on your way!