After every episode, the social team from Channel Ten have been diligently updating the leaderboard outlining which shark is making which offer and the amount that each of us has invested in the start-ups. There is much more to what this leader board says – it is not about what we spend but what we think is our potential for return.
Each shark has different skills, talents, networks and experiences – whenever someone walks into the tank (remember we know absolutely nothing about them prior to the doors opening) we have to assess what value we can bring to them and the likelihood of a good return.
We have two resources: time and money. And when we add the right mix of both then the outcome for the business we make an offer to should be amplified.But the game between the sharks is real – it is not acting. (I couldn’t act to save myself). Steve and I do see the world differently – but not withstanding that we do have a deep respect for what each of us has achieved and what we do now.
Even if the sharks really like a pitch, we play cat and mouse between the us as was so evident in the One World Collection pitch last night – where Steve started playing on the entrepreneurs team. Helping him drive a better deal.
When I see a business I like – I often have to bring up all its shortcomings to try and put the other sharks off… so that I have a clearer opportunity. Of course, this does not work when all five sharks just offer what the entrepreneur asks for as in the case of Lil’ Fairy Door.
Here are the five things that I look at before I am ever likely to make an offer:
1. What problem is the product/service solving
2. How many people have that problem
3. Where are those people with the problem and how are they accessed
4. What will it cost me (time and money)
5. What return will it deliver over what time frame?
Investing is a competitive business… there are plenty of amazing businesses, but I always say is this the best use of my time and money or is it better spent elsewhere and can I count on the founder to do what they say they are going to do. Business is a game of trust.
Daniel Case says
Such an informative (and entertaining) show last night, great insights shared here too, the most impactful, your final comment – “Business is a game of trust”. With out trust there are no relationships, no relationships and there is no business.
Thanks for sharing Naomi.
Rob Burton says
Hi Naomi, thanks very much for your explanation, I really enjoy watching Shark Tank & you have added to my knowledge of exactly how you guys deal with the entrepreneurs & will definitely help enjoy the show even more.
Keep up the great work????
Best Wishes
Rob Burton
Tim Davies says
Coolest graphic ever! I wouldn’t have thought Janine would be at the top, and Andrew at the bottom. Those $666’s, clearly the boys split a deal together. What was that business?
Jarod says
List below are my 5 answers to look at before you ( Naomi Simson) make an offer.
1. Affordable land under $300 M2
2. Everyone?
3.everywhere and online.
4. No hands on time needed and upto $2,000,000 return (profit) on current property value.
4B. Capital raising upto $16,000,000, lower if approval for pre sale.
5. Upto 10 years( 3-5 years to develop/ as done by other developers) and (3-5 more years to sell upon council approval) for return of investment.
Lee-Anne Davie says
Thanks Naomi
I appreciate your thoughts and they indeed reflect your actions on Shark Tank.
Your achievements are inspirational.
Lee-Anne