“It’s been the hardest job I’ve ever had but the most rewarding job I’ve ever had.”
Everette Taylor was an entrepreneur, influencer and one of world’s most influential marketers when the crowdfunding platform Kickstarter tapped him to be CEO just over a year ago. Taylor has made big changes—with much more to come—and learned a lot in the process.
“It’s been the hardest job I’ve ever had but the most rewarding job I’ve ever had,” says Taylor.
While he was attracted to the platform’s breadth and power in helping creators make their dreams come true, Taylor adds that “I knew Kickstarter was in place where, as a brand, it wasn’t as hot. It had plateaued from a cultural relevance standpoint.”
Now, the brand has distinctly more buzz, along with a more diverse creator base, backer base and executive team. “It’s such a genuine brand that’s so closely intertwined with the Creator economy and supporting creators and entrepreneurs,” he says. “We’re a public benefit corporation so we don’t even maximize for revenues … we’ve kept our creator fees small.”
There have been challenges, from dealing with the economy, a pre-existing union drive, increased competition and the disruptive impact of new technology. Through it all, Taylor has learned how to be a better leader, build a strong team, and double down on the habits that also keep him more centered as a human being.
“I’ve always been someone who’s been a really authentic person throughout my throughout my journey but I think when you’re numero uno … you can fully embrace all of your yourself in a role,” says Taylor.
This article was first published on forbes.com and all figures are in USD.
