Insights from the Founders

Perspectives on growth, strategy, and the impact of changing market conditions.

Author
Radu Bozga
Associate

As part of this year's report, we surveyed around 35 founders from the Top 100 list in order to gain insights into their perspectives on growth, strategy, and how market conditions have impacted their vision.

We hope that the results of this survey will provide value to other founders and allow them to incorporate additional context into their business strategies.

Have you noticed a decrease in customer demand over the past 6 months?

Approximately 80% of respondents reported no decrease in customer demand. Pipeline conversion rates have remained consistent with earlier in the year, although some respondents are noting an increase in the length of the sales cycle.  

Those reporting a decrease in customer demand were primarily startups selling to other startups or scaleups: this is a customer profile that has been significantly impacted by restructuring or cost-cutting measures.

Has the way you think about topline growth changed over the past 6 months?

60% of the leaders we surveyed reported a change in their perspective on topline growth over the past six months. The primary shift in rationale involves a focus on improving Net Dollar Retention through improved account management and pricing.

What will be the cornerstones that underpin your company’s enduring success?

Interestingly, by far the most popular answer among our cohort as to the key to enduring success is GTM execution.

How can the investor community support you better beyond capital?

According to those we interviewed, by far the most valuable thing that we can do as VCs is to make introductions. The quality and reach of a VC’s network is definitely an important asset and something into which we invest a good deal of time and energy at Notion.

When do you expect the economic headwinds to end?

Most respondents anticipate a return to a more positive macro-economic environment in 2024.

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