Finding a co-founder for my SEO tool
Hi all,
I've been running SiteGuru (www.siteguru.co) for a couple of years all by myself. I'm starting to be more and more convinced that I can't do it all by myself.
I've built a pretty good product, but I feel I'm not the right person to promote it to a big audience and grow it further. I think I'm a product guy, and I need a growth guy/girl by my side to take it to the next level.
Before I start looking, I'd like some input from people who did this before. How do you approach this? How do you divide the work, and the equity of the company? How do you find the right person?
Any input is much appreciated!
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Well this is a little bit ironic since your product literally does SEO :)
Why not use the knowledge you have of SEO to make sure you rank high on keywords and let the marketing take care of itself?
I understand why you would say that, but I'm afraid it's a bit more complicated.
SEO consists of 3 pillars:
You need to rock all 3 to rank high. I'm a technical SEO, and SiteGuru is a tool that focuses on the tech part. I'm not really the person to built links, and although I can produce nice content, I'm sure other people are better at it. That's why I'm looking to partner up:-)
My favourite approach these days is to 'try before you buy' - as in, if you find someone you think is a good fit then try hiring them first (freelance/part time), pay them something, build up the relationship, see if you are a good fit.
If things work out, then talk other stuff.
That's a great idea, I hadn't thought of that. Thanks!
No, I do not believe this is a good idea. You need top talent for a role like this. No top talent would wants or needs to be tried before buyed. Waste of time IMO.
I see what you mean, but it could be a good way to get to know each other and see if there's a fit. If both parties agree to use this as a trial phase, that might be useful.
Hey Rick,
If your still looking around, I'd love to chat about partnering up. I have full-stack and marketing experience. Please check out my latest product, grew it to 15k users in 1 month. Email me if you are interested: [email protected]
For some reason your post shows up in my Google Now I joined (also needed this resource) specifically to reply to you.
Sounds like you have some roles (link building) that you need to file not necessarily a co-founder. To me, it sounds like your ideal co-founder would be a Business Development that has experience with landing large account, anything other than that you can trade services for or hire out.
P.S. I'm checking out your tools. I'm an SEO newbie but will need just the basics for my new project atm.
Thanks for your input! I agree, a co-founder is not necessary, but it would be nice to share the burden and get a different perspective sometimes, especially if that someone has a complementary skillset.
Let me know your thoughts about the tool!
Hi, I've been doing SEO for over ten years and specialise in content and content marketing as I used to work in publishing. I'd be happy to help if I can.
Sure, let’s get in touch! How can I contact you?
Hey Rick I added you on Linkedin - my name is ... we can chat there if that works? Then you can see at least I am who and what I say I am :)
Got it, sent you a message!
Hi man
I am interested to work with you and grow this tool
Reach me via [email protected] to discuss more
Talk soon
Hey Rick!
This is interesting. I've just started working on a very similar product, borne out of the same pain (I've built multiple sites and realized there's a lot to remember about them). I'd love to chat with you: [email protected]
Emailing you now!
The right people will be able to take SiteGuru to a whole new level, however, I'd first explore short-term, freelance relationships with those you want to work with, rather than bringing them on as cofounders. It's initially less complicated, and it gives you time to see what they can bring to the table.
Treat cofounders and investors as potential roommates. Would you want to live with/give part of your house to this person?
Freelancers/employees are tenants in that duplex, fixer-upper you bought with your partner for some passive income- if they don't pay their rent, they're out (usually).
Talk to your attorney before you draft or agree to anything. That should always be an early step : )
Thanks for your suggestions, makes a lot of sense - appreciate it!
How. Your site is very helpful, though I haven't gotten around to using it as much as I should have. One of my favorite ideas on this comes from Mark Zuckerberg: "Don't hire anybody you wouldn't want to work for." Good luck with your search. Keep up the good work!
Hi Rick,
Have you thought about partnering with a growth marketing agency? I am running a consulting side biz, maybe we could sync up.
Chaela Grace Kindness
Kindnessconsulting.ca
Happy to connect and chat!
Email in my profile
This comment was deleted 5 years ago.