Ben Sharf, Co-Founder of Platter, has embarked on an intense and revealing journey since the company’s inception nearly two years ago. His reflections on the founder’s path offer valuable insights for those navigating similar entrepreneurial terrains. Ben Sharf’s experiences highlight how theoretical knowledge can differ significantly from the practical realities of running a startup. Through his candid account, Ben Sharf shares four critical lessons that have shaped his approach to leadership and management.
Ben Sharf’s first major realization is the importance of diving in headfirst. Initially, Ben Sharf was deeply engaged in studying and learning from various resources—books, podcasts, and mentors. While these resources provided a solid foundation, Ben Sharf discovered that hands-on experience was irreplaceable. The act of doing, rather than just learning, proved to be the most effective teacher. For Ben Sharf, this lesson emphasized the necessity of practical engagement over passive consumption of information. It’s a reminder that, although preparation is valuable, real growth often comes from active involvement in the business.
The second lesson Ben Sharf learned was the evolving nature of leadership. As Platter grew, Ben Sharf’s role shifted from direct involvement in everyday tasks to a more strategic position. In the early stages, Ben Sharf was deeply engaged in the operational aspects of the company. However, as the company expanded, his focus transitioned to guiding the overall direction and making high-level decisions. This shift required Ben Sharf to trust his team and delegate responsibilities effectively. The evolution from a hands-on leader to a strategic guide highlights the importance of adapting leadership styles as a company scales.
Ben Sharf’s third insight revolves around the significance of company culture. Initially, Ben Sharf underestimated the impact of a well-defined culture. However, he quickly realized that culture plays a pivotal role in the success of a growing company. As Platter expanded, maintaining a cohesive and inspiring culture became increasingly important. For Ben Sharf, fostering an environment where team members felt included and motivated was essential. This lesson underscores the idea that company culture is not a secondary concern but a critical component of long-term success. It’s a continuous effort that requires attention and dedication from the leadership team.
The fourth lesson Ben Sharf identified is the role of a founder in unblocking others and addressing challenges. As the team at Platter grew, Ben Sharf’s responsibilities evolved to include budget planning, hiring, and ensuring that team members had the resources and support they needed. This role often felt like that of a firefighter—resolving issues and removing obstacles to enable others to succeed. For Ben Sharf, this shift in focus from direct task management to supporting and empowering his team was a crucial part of his role. It reflects the broader challenge of balancing strategic oversight with operational support.
Ben Sharf’s reflections provide a valuable perspective on the founder’s journey. The lessons learned over the past two years highlight the dynamic nature of entrepreneurship and the need for adaptability. For Ben Sharf, the process of transitioning from a hands-on operator to a strategic leader, emphasizing culture, and focusing on enabling others has been central to Platter’s growth and success.
These insights also offer practical guidance for other entrepreneurs and leaders. The emphasis on practical experience over theoretical knowledge, the importance of evolving leadership styles, the critical role of company culture, and the need to support and unblock team members are all relevant takeaways. Ben Sharf’s journey underscores that leadership is a continuous learning process, marked by both personal and organizational growth.
As Ben Sharf continues to navigate the entrepreneurial landscape with Platter, his willingness to share these lessons contributes to a broader understanding of the challenges and rewards of founding a company. His experiences serve as a reminder that while the journey is fraught with challenges, each lesson learned is a step toward greater effectiveness and success.
Ben Sharf’s reflections on his time with Platter provide a roadmap for aspiring entrepreneurs. By embracing hands-on experience, adapting leadership styles, prioritizing company culture, and focusing on supporting the team, founders can navigate the complexities of building and growing a successful business. Ben Sharf’s insights are a testament to the evolving nature of leadership and the continuous effort required to foster a thriving and resilient company. For those interested in learning more, Ben Sharf’s future posts promise additional valuable takeaways from his ongoing entrepreneurial journey.
