Recently, I saw a former colleague’s LinkedIn post announcing his startup and sent him a congratulatory message. I also offered my services pro bono (he’s always loved my work) because, although their product is great, their website looked like it was designed by an engineer in a bad mood (I have OCD when it comes to branding).

He replied: “I’ll definitely keep you in mind, but right now we’re focused on trials, early users, and first funding rounds.”

My reply (in my head): “Hmm, precisely, the three reasons why you need to build a brand and protect it fiercely.”
I unclenched a few body parts and