Talk about Contagious, sea cucumbers demand a high price, avoiding fundraising foibles, an ancient economic cluster, debate over working from home heats up, avoiding startup hell… this week’s notable news and tantalizing tidbits for young treps:
1. Social epidemics? Wharton professor and author of the recently released book Contagious: Why Things Catch On Jonah Berger, explores the consumer psychology behind ‘social epidemics’ and how to facilitate big impact from word of mouth marketing. (Fast Company)
2. High-speed boat chases, harpoon battles and sea cucumbers: Apparently there’s something of a gold rush along the Yucatán Peninsula. Not sure if it’s safe (or legal) to cash in, but the price sounds right. (New York Times)
3. Flawed fundraising: Finding funding can often be “make or break” for startups. Check out this infographic for 10 tips on how to avoid fundraising failures. (Entrepreneur)
4. The first economic cluster? Where you choose to start a business can have a big impact on its success. Take a look into an entrepreneurial community that has withstood the test of time. Hint: it’s not Silicon Valley. (BBC)
5. Quick change: Sometimes you must have must-have items immediately. This has always been the shortfall of online shopping, but that’s about to change. (Wired)
6. Help me, help you: In starting up, a degree of fighting is inevitable. But how you resolve conflicts will determine success or failure. Check out these 10 “perfect phrases” to bring any fight back to a healthy debate. (American Express Open Forum)
7. Does working from home, work? The recently rekindled debate over working from home vs. face-to-face communication has drawn valid points from both sides. This honest investigation into the discussion offers tips for telecommuters and in-office employees alike. (Knowledge @ Wharton)
8. How to avoid startup hell: It’s hard starting a business on your own. It can be lonely, and difficult to deal with feelings of doubt and self-deprecation. Avoid executive isolation with these 10 tips. (Startup Professional’s Musing)
9. When bullies blossom: This may not be a surprise to the many young entrepreneurs out there, but a high IQ and juvenile delinquency are traits of successful entrepreneurs, according to a new study. So apparently you should hit the books and your kid brother if you want to make big bucks as an adult innovator. (Just kidding about the brother part.) (Financial Times)
10. The joy of coupons: Coupons are an age-old tactic for attracting local customers. Taking this strategy online can have an amplified effect. Learn more and introduce your business to online couponing the right way. (EpicLaunch)
