According to one of BigSpeak’s favorite speakers, Kevin O’Leary, that is.  The Shark known as Mr. Wonderful was featured on the cover of this month’s Inc. Magazine, discussing socially-conscious businesses, competition, and why it’s important to be ruthless in business.

“You have to be willing to fire your mother. Successful CEOs know their allegiance must always remain with customers and shareholders, 100 percent of the time.”

In the same issue, Mr. Wonderful went head to head with socially-conscious entrepreneur, Adam Lowry to hash out the eternal debate – what place, if any, does altruism have in business?

According to O’Leary, none. “We don’t need more companies trying to solve social problems,” he says. “Here is the truth: The DNA of a business is to maximize returns to its shareholders.” Whether you agree or not, there are three keys Mr. Wonderful recommends to getting your business off the ground:

1. Elevator Pitch | Brevity and conciseness are key. “In 100% of cases an entrepreneur can articulate their idea in 90 seconds or less.”
2. Follow Through | Developing an idea and business plan are 1% of the process. A good team can “articulate why they’re the right people to execute the business plan.” Can you see the process all the way through production, distribution, and profitability?
3. Know Your Numbers | “The one that really matters is the entrepreneurs know their numbers inside out. In Corporate America, when you want to be a leader…above all, you need to know your numbers.”

Check out the feature, and consider booking a Shark Tank speaker for your next corporate event.  For more information, contact BigSpeak Speakers Bureau at (805) 965-1400 or info@bigspeak.com.