Partner Article

Maintaining authenticity in business

Bdaily has entrepreneurship in the spotlight in our latest focus week. Philip Letts, founder and CEO of blur Group, is one such entrepreneur. What does it take to maintain success in business?

There’s lots of standard wisdom about what makes someone successful in building their own business - but perhaps the trait that is overlooked but is the one that I’ve maintained is the most important as I’ve embarked on building blur over the last 7 years, is that of authenticity.

When devising the concept of blur, I had a clear vision as to not only the benefits of the business, but its core values too. I wanted to create a product I believed in, and would use myself. We knew that when we started blur Group we’d disrupt and innovate powerful industries and that’s something you can’t be afraid of if you really want not just success, but to be a leader and maintain that position.

Your business, whether that’s a product or service, should be close to your heart – have passion for what you do, and those that are buying into it will see this and thrive off it.

It can be a cutthroat environment, but don’t be afraid to always be yourself in business; understand that there will be times when you must adapt your approach and make compromises, but never submit to a request or offer that isn’t aligned with your ethics. Make smart choices, listen to your heart and that way you’ll be able to kick ass!

It’s vital to have focus; do what you do and do it well. Don’t get dazzled by the bright lights and dollar signs, and always ensure quality over quantity where your business’s output is concerned.

My final piece of advice to entrepreneurs wanting to conduct themselves in an authentic manner would be to think, long and hard about what it is you want from life, and from your business. If your goals aren’t clear from the outset, staying true to yourself and your idea will become increasingly difficult.

I’m often quoted as saying that entrepreneurs starting out should be prepared to put at least 10 years into their business before they can expect to see a real return. It’s a long time - so if you’re not willing to invest that time, often at the expense of all else, it’s almost certainly worth re-evaluating your situation and strategy. Be true and be in it for the long haul.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Blur Group .