Michael Hurnaus, Founder of Tractive and angel-investor in B2C subscription businesses, discusses executing ideas well for startup success, the importance of pricing in subscriptions, and reducing churn for customer retention. They explore Peloton's success and key metrics in consumer subscriptions, emphasizing product engagement. The chapter ends with a call to action to follow Michael on LinkedIn and appreciation for sponsors.
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Quick takeaways
Effective execution is crucial for startup success, contributing around 95% compared to the idea itself which only accounts for about 5%.
Pricing and reducing churn are key factors in subscription businesses; provide pricing options and focus on delivering an excellent product to retain customers.
Deep dives
The Importance of Execution in Startup Ideas and Subscriptions
Michael highlights the misconception that success in startups or subscription businesses is solely dependent on having a groundbreaking idea. He emphasizes that execution plays a vital role, accounting for around 95% of success, while the idea itself constitutes roughly 5%. Drawing from his experience at Amazon and his own business, Tractive, Michael explains how startups can lock in customers with hardware and generate recurring revenue through subscriptions. He also stresses the significance of having a strong team to execute effectively.
Pricing Strategies and Churn Reduction in Subscriptions
Michael delves into the critical aspects of pricing in subscription businesses. He recommends providing customers with three pricing options, with many people naturally gravitating towards the middle option. He advises businesses to experiment with different pricing models and encourages longer subscription terms to secure cash flow. To combat churn, Michael stresses the importance of delivering an excellent product, providing an effortless onboarding experience, and addressing involuntary churn caused by issues like expired credit cards. He also highlights the value of gathering customer feedback and offering incentives to retain customers who express a desire to cancel.
Leveraging Hardware and Key Metrics in Subscription Businesses
Michael explores the potential for hardware-based businesses to adopt or incorporate a subscription model successfully. He mentions examples like Peloton, Blink Cameras, and fitness bands such as Whoop and Aura. Michael emphasizes the need to monitor key metrics, including sign-up rates, churn rates, dollar retention, upselling opportunities, and engagement levels. He emphasizes the importance of analyzing cohorts to identify trends among different groups of customers and the significance of adapting strategies for different market regions. Lastly, Michael highlights the value of having a great product and ensuring customer satisfaction and engagement to drive subscription business growth.
Michael Hurnaus previously worked for Microsoft and Amazon before founding Tractive - market leader in GPS Tracking and Health/Wellness Monitoring for cats and dogs. Michael also angel-invests in B2C subscription businesses.
Top 3 Value Bombs
1. Around 95 percent of success hinges on executing that idea well. The idea contributes only about 5 percent to startups and endeavors, while most of the outcome is determined by effective execution.
2. Pricing is vital for subscriptions, whether in your business or as an angel investor in others. The Choice Factory book is a great resource.
3. Reducing churn is crucial, perhaps even more than pricing. To lower churn, start by offering a fantastic product that engages users.
Check out Tractive’s dog and cat trackers. Follow every step. Every minute. Everywhere - Tractive Website
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