I’m actually listening to his audio book ‘Losing My Virginity’ and I can tell you now, Richard Branson did a LOT more than just ‘finance the start up costs’.

He had to kick off some of the original team members because he wanted to do things the Virgin way.
eg. The first partner he parted ways with was a guy who wouldn’t settle on the name ‘Virgin Atlantic’ because he said ‘No one will ever fly on a plane named VIRGIN!!’….

Alena

http://smallbusinessgrant.info

I too cringe at what I was doing a year ago, but looking back if I hadn’t done those things I wouldn’t be where I am now.

” strive for excellence rather than perfection so you can get your idea onto the market ASAP”

Sounds like the software industry

Revise the products and charge users for major upgrades. It builds good relationships with customers.

Think about this.

Most musicians cringe to listen to their first few songs
Many photographers criticize their older work

Part of the growth process means todays products may look bad in a few years because you have grown, that’s okay.

FYI I am no Richard Branson but I have done okay for myself with a 10th grade education.

dale if you are looking to start a personal training business I suggest you have a look at these blogs
http://kickbacklife.com
http://ptpower.com

@ Sasha

You are right mate, marketing is so over rated. There is a pretty simple formula. Find out what people want and then give it too them.

As a marketer you are there to serve. So be of service.

@ Georgie

Meeting branson should not be a dream. If you really want to meet him. Find out how to get in contact with him, find out where hes speaking. There is no limit to your creativity. Do not ‘accept’ that it is impossible because it isn’t. Nothing is impossible. So go and cut out the word out of the dictionary or have a look at it this way.

(Im-possible) (You are possible)

Just like

(dis-ease) ( You are not a ease)

Keep up the good work.

Jock

Really great article. Did you know Richard Branson bought his first house at the age of 20,

Nice huh!

It would be a dream to meet Branson! One day i’ll get there for sure!! I think investors and the entrepreneurs that I have met along the way, are looking for young people who are committed to their ideas. They do not, necessarily need to have the education, but they need to be willing to work hard to get their ideas up and running. Its all well and good to leave school with the intention of becoming an entrepreneur, but unless you’re willing to dedicate all your spare time to your ideas and research, the older generation may be a bit hesitant to invest.

Student magazine almost failed-but Branson didn’t give up and spent every last penny on marketing it. Thats a sign of commitment and dedication. He was passionate about every project he created. Many of his projects were risky and at the start he didn’t get any help from banks. Ultimately if you’re not committed to finishing school- then you need to make sure you can show that you’re committed in other areas. No one wants to invest in someone who may ‘give up.’

Loving the discussion. Thanks!

Georgie