ABDUL

Most VCs prefer serial entrepreneurs. I don't. I back first-time entrepreneurs more than most. Yes, it's riskier, but the returns can be much bigger. Second-time entrepreneurs are usually better operationally. They make sure they raise the RIGHT amount of money. They're ruthless about hiring. But first-time entrepreneurs? They tend to raise too much money. They feel like they have to hire everybody. Then they hit the wall and wonder why the next round didn't come as easily. Second-time entrepreneurs who've hit the wall know to keep it thin until product-market fit. Grow organically. Don't rely on the venture capital marketplace because it comes and goes. I like first-time entrepreneurs making this their career. This might be the one they were meant to be. I like second-time entrepreneurs going after something entirely different. Not recreating their old business. Bill Gates, Steve Jobs, Mark Zuckerberg, Larry Ellison… first-time entrepreneurs.