Kathryn V. on Entrepreneurial Conviction: ‘Build the Booth Anyway’

In a recent LinkedIn post, Kathryn V. shares a compelling anecdote to illustrate the essence of entrepreneurship and the importance of unwavering conviction in the face of doubt. The post, framed around a short video she observed, highlights how initial skepticism about a product or service can be swiftly overturned by genuine demand from the right audience.

Kathryn V. begins by recounting the story of a golden retriever with a sign offering “Kisses: $100.” Initially, a passerby expressed disbelief, stating, “No one is going to pay $100 for a kiss.” However, the narrative takes a turn as the camera reveals a substantial line of women eagerly waiting to pay for the service. This vivid imagery serves as the foundation for Kathryn V.’s core message.

“And I thought… That’s entrepreneurship. There will always be someone who rolls down the window and says: ‘No one will buy that.’ ‘That’s too much.’ ‘Who do you think you are?’ And meanwhile… There’s a line forming you can’t see yet.”

The Power of Unseen Demand

Kathryn V. uses this story to caution founders against heeding the voices of doubt, whether from external critics or internal fears. She emphasizes that the success of the “kisses” booth wasn’t due to loudness, begging, or discounting, but rather the unwavering belief of the golden retriever’s owner in their offering. As Kathryn V. puts it:

“Not because the golden retriever was the loudest. Not because he begged. Not because he discounted his kisses to $5 to prove a point. But because he believed in the booth enough to build it.”

This belief, Kathryn V. argues, is the crucial ingredient that attracts the right market. She directly addresses founders, urging them to ignore the naysayers and proceed with their vision.

Building with Authenticity and Conviction

The core of Kathryn V.’s advice centers on authenticity and conviction. She posits that when an idea or product is genuine and aligned with the founder’s values, the intended audience will resonate with it. According to Kathryn V., this authentic connection is what builds momentum and attracts support, including investment.

From Desperation to Conviction

Kathryn V. draws a stark contrast between desperation and conviction, particularly in the context of seeking investment. She argues that investors are not drawn to founders exhibiting desperation, but rather to those who demonstrate a deep-seated belief in their venture. As Kathryn V. notes:

“Investors don’t line up for desperation. They line up for conviction.”

This conviction, she explains, stems from building something with genuine heart and purpose. When a founder truly believes in what they are creating and puts that belief into action by “building the booth,” they create an infectious energy that attracts the right opportunities and the right people.

A Valentine’s Day Message to Founders

Concluding her post, Kathryn V. extends a message of encouragement, particularly relevant given the timing around Valentine’s Day. She celebrates those who are brave enough to put their ideas forward and encourages them to build with love and authenticity. In Kathryn V.’s view:

“And when you build something with heart? It becomes contagious. […] Happy Valentine’s Day to the ones brave enough to put their idea out there. Build it with love. The right line will form. ❤️”

Kathryn V.’s post serves as a powerful reminder for entrepreneurs to trust their vision, build with integrity, and understand that true success often emerges from the unwavering belief in one’s own venture, attracting a dedicated following and the necessary support systems.