Trust Is Built Between the Milestones

As they exit the day to day operations, what should a founder continue to do?

One of the founder's most important responsibilities is communicating the vision for the business.

But communicating a vision isn't simply about explaining where you want to go.

It's about building trust that you're capable of getting there.

And there’s little doubt that trust is tested most severely when the results aren't what everyone expected.

When an investment hasn't paid off.

When a promising initiative fails.

When the people who've committed their time, money or resources begin wondering whether they made the right decision.

It's relatively easy to communicate when there's good news to share.

The real test comes between the milestones.

That's when the founder has to demonstrate something more substantial than enthusiasm.

The ability to acknowledge what's happening, challenge assumptions, make difficult decisions and explain why the longer-term oppor...