E
From Google’s First PM to Backing 50 Unicorns — One Simple Rule | Felicis, Aydin Senkut
@ EO
04/16/25
Takeaways
AS
Aydin Senkut
04/16/25
@ EO
Whenever there's a setback, we have two choices: accept it or take action. What we do after a setback really matters.
AS
Aydin Senkut
04/16/25
@ EO
I see all setbacks and difficulties as jet fuel to propel me forward. Use that energy to push yourself towards your goals.
AS
Aydin Senkut
04/16/25
@ EO
Felicis Ventures has backed over 50 unicorns and achieved 100+ exits, demonstrating the importance of a diverse team in making investment decisions.
AS
Aydin Senkut
04/16/25
@ EO
At Google, we focused on a few key things, and when Larry Page said yes to something, it meant it was important and everyone rallied around it.
AS
Aydin Senkut
04/16/25
@ EO
The 10X principle means that whatever you do must be ten times better, cheaper, or faster than the competition to truly succeed.
AS
Aydin Senkut
04/16/25
@ EO
We prioritize markets poised for great growth, as the right market can significantly increase a company's chances of success.
AS
Aydin Senkut
04/16/25
@ EO
In venture capital, understanding people is more important than just focusing on numbers. My background in sales helps me relate to founders better.
AS
Aydin Senkut
04/16/25
@ EO
Shopify's founder, Toby, initially wanted to start a snowboard store but pivoted to creating a software company when he saw a lack of tools available.
AS
Aydin Senkut
04/16/25
@ EO
Shopify's strategy included offering lifetime commissions to agencies, which encouraged them to promote the platform effectively.
AS
Aydin Senkut
04/16/25
@ EO
The launch of Shopify Payments was perfectly timed and significantly contributed to the company's rapid growth.
AS
Aydin Senkut
04/16/25
@ EO
Both Google and Shopify utilized real-time internal data to monitor business performance, which is crucial for making informed decisions.
AS
Aydin Senkut
04/16/25
@ EO
Startups must focus on measuring the right metrics comprehensively to understand their performance and drive success.
AS
Aydin Senkut
04/16/25
@ EO
Choosing the right market is essential for startup success; selecting the wrong market can make success nearly impossible.
AS
Aydin Senkut
04/16/25
@ EO
In the early stages, founders should concentrate on a few critical tasks rather than spreading themselves too thin across many activities.
AS
Aydin Senkut
04/16/25
@ EO
Consistency and persistence are vital for startups; small incremental progress can compound into significant achievements over time.
AS
Aydin Senkut
04/16/25
@ EO
Great companies do not succeed in a straight line; founders must learn to navigate setbacks and keep moving forward despite challenges.
AS
Aydin Senkut
04/16/25
@ EO
Rejections and setbacks can serve as 'jet fuel' for motivation, pushing founders to improve and try again until they achieve success.
AS
Aydin Senkut
04/16/25
@ EO
Measuring success in investment requires clear metrics, such as the number of successful exits from a portfolio of investments.
AS
Aydin Senkut
04/16/25
@ EO
A founder's ability to tell a compelling story is crucial for attracting customers and talent, especially during challenging times.
AS
Aydin Senkut
04/16/25
@ EO
Understanding your audience is key to effective storytelling; knowing their backgrounds and interests can significantly enhance communication.
AS
Aydin Senkut
04/16/25
@ EO
The last 10% of detail in a presentation can make a significant difference in how a message is received and understood.
AS
Aydin Senkut
04/16/25
@ EO
Investment is a challenging business, as it involves creating value that cannot be physically touched, unlike tangible products.
AS
Aydin Senkut
04/16/25
@ EO
The impact of Felicis Ventures extends beyond financial returns; it aims to contribute positively to society through its portfolio companies.
AS
Aydin Senkut
04/16/25
@ EO
Technology should not only advance and create wealth but also improve happiness and reduce stress in society, especially for future generations.