As you can imagine, becoming a first-time founder of a successful company isn’t exactly a cakewalk. Fortunately, it can better prepare you for the second go-around just as it did for Co-Founder of ExactTarget and Managing Partner at High Alpha, Scott Dorsey.
In our second episode of Casting a Vision, we had the pleasure of hearing Lindsay’s mentor as well as one of Casted’s board members, Scott Dorsey, as he shares how being a first-time founder and CEO has shaped him to be the leader he is today.
Digging into Key Takeaways
In each episode, we like to highlight the key takeaways from each show. Think of it as a podcast outline or live show notes. Here are just a few of the takeaways that really stood out to us in this episode.
Components of a great CEO 🧩
Narrowing down the qualities of what makes a great CEO is like discovering the secret ingredient to what makes your favorite meal. They both take many tries, but being able to shift your mindset can make or break your success. CEOs shouldn’t allow themselves to only be defined by one triumph. Rather, they should determine their greatness by their ability to continue growing their success through their open-mindedness and coachability.
Three things to look for in a Founder 📝
Becoming a first-time founder is a challenge within itself, but becoming a successful one is even harder. Luckily, Scott was able to pinpoint three main attributes that he believes to make a strong founder. First, having a good fit between founder and idea that gives you leverage to see your passion through. Second, possessing natural leadership qualities that can allow you to both lead and work alongside your team. Lastly, showing determination and grit towards your journey to success.
Why you should have a coach💡
Here at Casted, we’re big advocates for having a coach throughout your career. The checklist for finding the right coach should include having a genuine interest in your journey as well as allowing you to feel comfortable and vulnerable. Maybe you’re imagining a board member or investor filling this position, but unfortunately, you can’t show your true authenticity one-hundred percent of the time. In that case, look for someone with whom you can grow as a team.
Make sure you have fun 🎉
Here at Casted, we’re big advocates for having a coach throughout your career. The checklist for finding the right coach should include having a genuine interest in your journey as well as allowing you to feel comfortable and vulnerable. Maybe you’re imagining a board member or investor filling this position, but unfortunately, you can’t show your true authenticity one-hundred percent of the time. In that case, look for someone with whom you can grow as a team.
Interested in more from Scott Dorsey?
As the Managing Partner of High Alpha, check out the venture studio that launches, scales, and invests in enterprise cloud companies.
Want to skim through Scott’s episode instead of listening? Read the transcript here.
About Casting a Vision
Casting a Vision is a show hosted by Casted's CEO and Co-Founder Lindsay Tjepkema. In this show, Lindsay will chat with leaders, visionaries, and entrepreneurs who have not only influenced her journey as an entrepreneur, founder, and leader, but are also building the companies and training the leaders of the future. Tune in to hear and learn from these leaders and learn more about their journey with Lindsay as your guide..
