Startup, that is the symbol of entrepreneurship development in Africa. Many of them worked hard to become big success stories. They offer fast solutions to specific issues in almost every industry.
However, they usually suffer from drawbacks, linked to difficult economic and regional contexts, but above all because many of them are gradually neglecting the true values ?? used to run a startup.
The real asset for a startup is not measured solely in terms of turnover and funds raised, although it is common to consider only this aspect.
Giving shape to projects or ideas is the mission of a startup, but its main asset is the team or associates on board. Developing team spirit in a common project is more effective than the traditional and now obsolete work methods. This is key to build more determination and willingness from the associates to keep the business growing: they are no longer motivated by the sole purpose of making a living, but making the project move forward … and to face crises together.
Valuing people, from the trainee to the manager, reminding employees that without them, the company simply would not exist: this is the first task that the leaders should tackle with each day …
Hard work is the motto of most startups. This requires that employees feel involved at all levels of the project, in order to find the motivation to create added value and to reach self fulfillment and emulation rather than just earning a livelihood. In fact, many talents working in startups place their personal welfare before their professional success. They want to protect themselves from archaic management methods.
The contributions of digital technology, which is observed in all fields of activity, give a greater dimension to this new value. By encouraging mobility, but also by allowing the emergence of startups carrying ever more innovative projects, the digital world changes the image that one could have of the employee.
Many companies have realized the need to consult with their employees before making any decisions about the activity. Nevertheless, this involvement is still superficial in many companies. Employees need to feel needed, listened to. This will give them the feeling of being morally responsible for the company’s project, just like the leaders. A feeling that will only increase their commitment to the project.
In the business world in general, particularly in the startup sector, it is more than ever vital to change the type of relationship in a common project. Rather than measuring a startup at its own financial value – a volatile and unpredictable value – it is important to focus on employees’ commitment to the business project. Because the true value of a startup is the passion of its employees!