Robert Henderson of JumpCrew
An exclusive Tech Tribune Q&A with Robert Henderson (co-founder and CEO) of JumpCrew, which was honored in our:
Tell us the origin story of JumpCrew – what problem were you trying to solve and why?
In late 2014, I realized how quickly the world was transitioning from in-person interactions to internet and phone-based communications. Traditional marketers and outside/outbound sales teams were struggling to understand the nuances around inside/inbound customer acquisition, so I set out to launch a product that would easily and predictably scale inbound/inside selling.
What was the biggest hurdle you encountered in your journey?
I could write 10,000 words about this. Building a business is always challenging. For us, re-imaging a traditionally stale category (sales outsourcing) was a true challenge. Many people compared us to what they knew without taking time to understand how and why we’re different.
Experience bias often comes into play and sometimes it’s hard to articulate why riding a bicycle is different than driving a Ferrari, even though both will eventually get you to the same place.
What does the future hold for JumpCrew?
Digital transformation is here to stay, and JumpCrew plans to stay at the forefront. In 2021 specifically, we plan on rolling out a new set of tools centered around data and helping our customers understand who their most likely customers are. We believe firmly that as long as we provide real, tangible value for our customers, JumpCrew will continue to grow and be successful.
What are your thoughts on the local tech startup scene in Nashville?
We need to see more of it!
Generally, Nashville is an inspiring place to be. We have a strong sense of community and the city has done an incredible job of fostering growth. Now we need to work hard to help our younger companies flourish into larger, more successful businesses.
What’s your best advice for aspiring entrepreneurs?
Have three top focuses every day and knock them out. A singular day can take you in many different directions – it’s easy to look back on a series of days and realize how little has been accomplished.
The most successful people I know plan the tasks they can accomplish that will move the meter, and then manage them daily, weekly, monthly, quarterly, and annually.
I find that everything else can go wrong, but if the three things you have prioritized go right, then you’ll more than likely be hugely successful.
Appreciate the advice on three top focuses each day. I find writing my thoughts down at the beginning and end of each work day has had a huge impact on my ability to stay focused. The notepad always stays in front of me on my desk unlike screens which constantly flicker and are less reliable there when you need them most.