
Entrepreneurship: Lessons from Craig Newmark’s Path to Success
Entrepreneurship is often romanticized as the pursuit of a grand vision or the execution of a groundbreaking idea. But success in entrepreneurship requires persistence, adaptability, and humility. Few stories illustrate this better than that of Craig Newmark, the accidental entrepreneur behind Craigslist. Over nearly three decades, Newmark built one of the most disruptive and enduring platforms on the internet, and his journey offers invaluable lessons for entrepreneurs at all stages of their careers.
Here are seven key principles from Craig Newmark’s entrepreneurial journey and how they can inform your path to success.
1. Don’t Be an A**#&%e: This straightforward advice from Newmark is a cornerstone of his success. In his early career, Newmark recognized that his behavior—such as correcting others in public—alienated his colleagues. As an entrepreneur, treating others with respect and humility isn’t just about being a good person; it’s also good business. Collaboration, trust, and mutual respect form the foundation of strong teams and lasting partnerships.
2. Recognize Blind Luck: Newmark credits much of his success to being in the right place and time. While you can’t control luck, you can recognize it and act decisively when opportunities arise. For Newmark, what began as a hobby evolved into Craigslist, a platform that fundamentally changed how people buy, sell, and connect online. Entrepreneurs must remain open to serendipity and ready to capitalize on it.
3. Don’t Be Afraid to Make Money: Many entrepreneurs struggle with monetizing their ideas, particularly when they start with a community or altruistic focus. Newmark’s decision to charge for job postings on Craigslist in 1999 was pivotal, allowing him to sustain the platform and continue delivering value to users. Entrepreneurs should not abandon building sustainable revenue models that align with their mission and values.
4. Get Power, Then Give It Away: Newmark emphasizes the importance of bottom-up leadership. He built a network of capable individuals, gave them the tools they needed, and trusted them to deliver results. For entrepreneurs, empowering your team and stepping back can lead to innovation and growth. It’s not about controlling every detail; it’s about creating an environment where talented people can thrive.
5. Nail the Messaging: Clear, consistent messaging is essential for building trust and engaging your audience. Newmark’s ability to simplify communication and stay involved in messaging efforts ensured Craigslist’s values resonated with its users. Entrepreneurs should prioritize clarity in their branding and communication to build strong connections with their customers.
6. Share Your Success: Newmark’s philanthropic efforts—including his commitment to donate 75% of his net worth to nonprofits—reflect his belief in giving back. For entrepreneurs, success isn’t just about personal gain; it’s an opportunity to uplift others. Whether through community engagement, mentorship, or charitable giving, sharing your success creates a legacy beyond your business.
7. Always Seek a Second Opinion: Newmark’s humility shines through his willingness to seek advice and second opinions. Whether it’s about a strategic decision or something as simple as a joke, input from others can help entrepreneurs avoid pitfalls. Surround yourself with trusted advisors and mentors who can provide perspective and guidance.
Applying These Lessons to Your Journey
Craig Newmark’s story is a reminder that entrepreneurship is as much about mindset and values as it is about strategy and execution. Here are a few actionable takeaways from his journey:
- Stay humble: Success is rarely a solo endeavor. Build relationships and respect the contributions of others.
- Adapt: Be ready to pivot when opportunities or challenges arise. Flexibility is key to navigating the unpredictable path of entrepreneurship.
- Think long-term: Sustainability matters. Focus on building a business that delivers lasting value.
At Apex GTS Advisors, we help entrepreneurs navigate the complexities of building and scaling their businesses. Whether you’re just starting or looking to take your company to the next level, we can help you apply these lessons and more to your entrepreneurial journey.
What lessons from Craig Newmark’s story resonate with you the most? Please share your thoughts in the comments below, and let’s discuss how to build businesses that make a lasting impact.