1. Want to get people interested in what you’re doing? Offer them free stuff...
Though you should probably go with something people would actually want and not a dirty and ripped “Stockdale for Veep,” t-shirt, such an idea remains valid. People enjoy freebies and they’re a great way to get them excited or spread the word about whatever project or app you’re working on. For more information on this one, see Gary Vaynerchuk's new book Jab, Jab, Jab, Right Hook -- which Vaynerchuk says means "give, give, give... ask!".
2. If you work hard, be sure to take a break now and then...
Nobody works harder in the land of Springfield, where The Simpsons call home, than Apu Nahasapeemapetilon, proprietor of the the Kwik-E-Mart. Even he knows, though, that, once in awhile, you need to take a break and recharge your batteries.
So go ahead and party (responsibly and within reason) like it’s on sale for $19.99.
3. No one else is going to accomplish things for you, you have to do it yourself…
In this stirring speech, Homer Simpson tells his son that crying about something does no good and convinces Bart that only he can find his lost dog. Sure, the Simpsons’ patriarch only gives the speech because he wants to see Bart eat dog food but the point remains a good one. If you wish to accomplish something, you’re the one that has to go out and make it happen.
4. Think differently...
The only way to stand out in a crowd is to, per the motto of Mapple Computers, a company that bears a striking resemblance to Apple, think differently. When everyone else is going one way, you should go the other way. Don’t be afraid to be original or, if you pardon the cliche, to “think outside the box.”
Just don’t download too many songs on your MyPad.
5. Don’t be afraid to ask questions...
Nobody knows everything. Be sure to remember that, whether in the classroom, work environment, or making cranberry sauce, it’s okay to ask questions. By being inquisitive, you reveal that you have a curious mind and are excited and want to learn more about the field you are in, which is a character trait professors and managers, as well fellow students and colleagues, find infectious.
6. Know what you’re talking about.
One achieves success in their field through constant study and research, as well as hard work and dedication. While it is easy to take the easy way out and try merely to pretend to be intelligent or learned in your area of expertise, this facade has a habit of disintegrating rather quickly, like Homer Simpson trying to sound smart after putting on glasses he found in the bathroom.
7. Stay humble.
It’s important to take pride in all that you do and what you’ve accomplished. There is, however, also something to be said for remaining humble. Those with too much bravado in themselves have a habit of getting burned, or in the above case, of burning down their house.
Can you think of any other Simpsons quotes or clips which are applicable to the world of entrepreneurship? Add your thoughts below...