The Smart StartUp helps readers start strong and stay strong in the early phases of growing their businesses, providing fundamental strategies for beating the odds. Tom Hopkins and Omar Periu want readers to be part of the statistics for businesses that not only succeeded in their first two years, but exceeded their own expectations for success. With this information, readers will be able to establish a solid foundation on which to build their businesses to the success level of their dreams--whether that's to create a legacy for generations or to follow the build-and-sell-it road to success. Within these pages, Tom and Omar delve deeply into the nuances of business ownership both on the practical and emotional side of things. They will help readers avoid some of the most common pitfalls entrepreneurs face. Readers will learn how to establish a compass they and the rest of their teams can rely on to guide business decisions going forward. Topics covered include: self-analysis as an entrepreneur; how to evaluate a business idea; how to choose the best structure for a business, including working with legal and accounting professionals; business communication skills; hiring and managing team members; prioritization; selling skills; marketing strategies; negotiation skills; and how to keep clients happy long term.