Start-up Expert: Get Ready

By Alistair Milne

Many people are not sure whether they are cut out to start their own business. After reading the Start-up Expert's first book 'Get Ready' you will have a better understanding of the challenges ahead and whether you have the character and determination to succeed. You will be reassured that qualifications are irrelevant and read stories about those who succeed against all odds. The book is designed to serve as encouragement and inspiration, while at the same time providing practical advice.

Alistair Milne is a serial entrepreneur and investor who already has 16 years of hands on start-up experience at age 33. Alistair has started more than 6 businesses since founding his first limited company at 17 and he has invested in many more. He moved to Monaco aged just 25 and his businesses currently employ well over 250 people.

Alistair has no degree in business studies or MBA, everything he knows about start-ups has been learned the hard way through running actual businesses from start to exit. He is truly a 'Start-up Expert'.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Alistair Milne
• Release date: Aug 23, 2011
• ISBN: 9781465923646

Alistair Milne

Alistair Milne is a serial entrepreneur and investor who already has 16 years of hands on start-up experience at age 33. Alistair has started more than 6 businesses since founding his first limited company at 17 and he has invested in many more. He moved to Monaco aged just 25 and his businesses currently employ well over 250 people. Alistair has no degree in business studies or MBA, everything he knows about start-ups has been learned the hard way through running actual businesses from start to exit. He is truly a 'Start-up Expert'.

Book preview

Preface

I am writing this short book for anyone who is thinking about starting their own business. To encourage and at least partially prepare them for the battle that lies ahead. Starting a company can be a lonely road ... most people don't understand why anyone would do something so difficult and risky. However, the truth is, business founders are the only people who will drive the global economy forwards and upwards. Politicians, regulators, etc. usually just get in the way and worry most about keeping their jobs. Entrepreneurs innovate, generate wealth and create employment ... often risking their own financial security in the process. They deserve far more credit than they receive!

Business success is more about character than education. It’s more about keeping an open-mind than following instructions. It is about conquering fear, ignoring people who may doubt you and being able to constantly adapt and refine your strategy and approach. If you can spot opportunities & are willing to take a risk on trying something new, creating your own business may be the most exhilarating and satisfying journey of your life.

I wish that when I was 17 and incorporating my first limited company, someone had spent 30 minutes with me to help prepare me for the difficult moments that lay ahead.  Not in a way that scared me or risked putting me off, but in a way that encouraged me and reassured me that anyone can do it.  They would have told me that the problems I faced in front of me are normal and commonplace.  They could have helped me realise that