Hundreds of business plans cross their desks every month, offering myriad opportunities. However, the successful venture capitalist invests in people first and business plans second. . . When considering an investment opportunity, most venture capitalists look at the obvious trends and market niches. Transcending the business elements, however, the most important factor in a decision to invest in a company is the quality of the people. The venture capital axiom is people, people and people. . .
Investors focus first on the management team's background.
It is essential to understand its ability to deliver on its plan. In 20 years as a venture capitalist, I've picked enough winners and suffered through enough losers to develop my own measures. . . There are five major characteristics that investors look for in entrepreneurs. In most cases, one or two are dominant and all five are present in some degree. The traits, in order of importance, are leadership, vision, integrity, openness and dedication. . .