Campusfork recently interviewed Jeremy Stoppleman Yelp CEO.
Rayfil: “I have gotten messages about my posting on the Yelp lawsuit. A member suggested that Yelp have a features in which owners can directly respond to member comments. Would Yelp consider this?”
Jeremy: “We’ve considered it and I don’t have a definitive answer as to what we’ll build in the future. Business owners should definitely use the free messaging feature we provide at http://biz.yelp.com (I use it!).”
Rayfil: “Yelp recently scaled to United Kingdom. Any plans to expand to Asia?”
Jeremy: “Someday”
Rayfil: “Are entrepreneurs born or made?”
Jeremy: “Born and made. I think you have to be willing to put yourself out there (maybe born?), but you have to be ready for blood, sweat, and tears aka a lot of hard work (made?)”.
Rayfil: “What are the top 3 tips you would have for aspiring entrepreneurs?”
Jeremy: “Be very flexible (question everything, don’t be afraid to change 180 degrees at a moments notice).”
“Be ready for a serious psychological challenge, starting up is an emotional roller coaster it will be extremely taxing on you and your family.”
“If you’re really ready just start working. Don’t get stuck in analysis paralysis, at some point you just have to dive in and go.”
Note: I agree with Jeremy that being an entrepreneur is a psychological challenge. I suggest entrepreneurs be mentored by past successful entrepreneurs.
Great points, Jeremy. As an entrepreneur myself I can attest you go through some very interesting trials and tribulations building your business. A combination of focus and creative will help you build your brand.
Oh and we are in both the UK, Asia and 47 countries
Great interview! Thanks for sharing Ray!