Credits: Forbes

When I launched my software development company, I had one major mission: to design software that initiates change and creates a compelling user experience. I hoped the results would lead to meaningful and sustainable relationships between the user and the software.

But like any startup, the challenges were endless, from raising funds to building out the executive team. And the more I spoke with other CEOs and founders — both in the software development industry and beyond – the more I witnessed the similar struggles that all entrepreneurs face. R ecently, I spoke with a business partner who is launching another startup, and he asked for some pointers. The following is what I told him — the most important pieces of advice that I believe can have a major impact, particularly for startups in the software development industry.

Focus On Quality

Quality is everything, and it supersedes quantity. Many startups make the mistake of pushing too much product or too many services out too early, without worrying about the quality. Take time in the beginning to relentlessly refine your product until it’s better than everything else out there.

For software companies, deadlines make this tricky. Some clients will ask for quick turnaround time, but make sure you stress the importance of quality first, even if it does take extra time. Provide a client with a high-quality product, and you’ll have a customer for life. But provide them with something so-so — even if they ask for something quick — and you can say goodbye to their business.

Seek Only Top Talent, And Spread Their Passion

Just as you should deliver top-quality products, you should also seek only top talent, even if it costs more. In my experience, paying a higher salary during the initial stages is worth it when you can serve a client with only the best. This also helps your business’s sustainability, creating a steady revenue flow.

Resumes say a lot about experience and prior success, but make sure to conduct your own research on every prospective employee. There are many gems out there with minimal experience who have the energy and passion to achieve much more, but often you can only see this through an interview.

On the subject of passion, most CEOs and company founders have this. Make sure to express your passion daily, as it spreads quickly and can have the same effect as continued education for your staff.

Network Constantly

Networking is a true factor for success, especially for a startup. Try to meet and befriend people who are successful within your industry. The easiest way is by becoming connecting on social media platforms like LinkedIn and Facebook, as well as attending relevant conferences.

Through networking at conferences, I met the founder of a mobile app development agency and a digital marketing agency. We’ve since worked together, assisting each other by essentially bartering services. We’ve become partners in a few business ventures. I’ve also received some software work from his clients, and in return I’ve sent some marketing projects from my software clients his way.