Less Talk, More Action
Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.
You're reading Entrepreneur United Kingdom, an international franchise of Entrepreneur Media.
By the time most companies have finished their Monday stand-ups, Rebecca Kelly is already shipping product. It's 2025, and the founder and CEO of VenueScanner, a London-based platform that helps people discover and book venues for events, meetings, and experiences across the UK, has traded bloated meeting schedules for real-time execution - and it's working.
"This year, our strength lies in focus and pace," she says. "We've tightened our team structure, which has enabled us to scale sales more efficiently and bring new products to market faster than ever. The way we now operate - where ideas move directly from founder conversations to engineering sprints - is something that wouldn't have been possible a year ago."
VenueScanner's transformation is a story of intentional subtraction. What's gone: unnecessary meetings, outdated processes, the myth of arriving at some perfect startup equilibrium. What's replaced it: speed, alignment, and a belief that less noise means more signal.
"We've drastically cut down on meetings. It sounds small, but it's been transformational. By analysing the actual output of meetings, we realised how much time was being spent talking rather than building." Even Friday afternoons have been reimagined - no longer for admin catch-up or quiet quitting, but for experimentation and AI deep dives. "It's an investment in our people that's already paying off," Kelly explains. "The team's technical skills and creative thinking have massively improved, and it's fueling faster experimentation."
Her clarity is refreshing in a sector still addicted to hype. Rather than aiming for elusive finish lines, Kelly has embraced a founder truth that often goes unspoken: "I used to believe there was a point where you 'get there.' But that's just not how startups work. The trick isn't reaching the end, it's staying in the game long enough - and staying grounded - to build something that lasts."
In an era of AI acceleration and capital constraint, she believes the overlooked edge for UK founders is not vision, but execution. "We are brilliant at getting things done," she says, "and we do it with fewer resources and more constraints. That's an advantage in 2025."
Kelly sees the next decade as a make-or-break moment for Britain's start-up ecosystem. Her vision? A truly borderless hub that rivals global tech capitals - not just with lifestyle perks, but with smarter infrastructure and policy. "If we want world-changing companies to emerge from the UK," she says, "we need to create an ecosystem that supports relentless innovation, rewards risk, and builds community around ambitious thinking."
At VenueScanner, that future is already being prototyped - not through flashy headlines, but in how a small team moves faster, thinks deeper, and acts with conviction. A startup culture not just optimised for scale, but for staying power.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Forbes
39 minutes ago
- Forbes
5 Ways ChatGPT Is Redefining LinkedIn Networking For Entrepreneurs
Entrepreneur building LinkedIn network According to the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor 2023-2024 report, 24% of young entrepreneurs are actively engaged in starting or running businesses, yet many struggle with time management while balancing growth activities on LinkedIn and other platforms. Teen and young adult entrepreneurs face additional challenges, including building credibility while competing against more established professionals on LinkedIn. LinkedIn has become essential for business development, but traditional LinkedIn networking approaches consume hours without guaranteed returns. This time crunch hits younger entrepreneurs particularly hard as they juggle business building with school, family commitments, and limited resources. Young entrepreneurs face a choice: spend significant time crafting individual LinkedIn messages and content or risk appearing generic in a crowded LinkedIn marketplace. ChatGPT offers entrepreneurs of all ages a middle path—maintaining personalization while scaling LinkedIn networking efforts efficiently. For younger business owners, AI tools level the playing field by helping them create professional content and outreach that competes with seasoned entrepreneurs. Here's how smart business owners are using AI to build meaningful professional relationships on LinkedIn. Writing individual connection requests and follow-up messages can consume several hours each week. Most entrepreneurs either send generic messages or spend too much time personalizing each one. ChatGPT helps you find the middle ground. Use this prompt: "I want to connect with [specific role/industry] professionals on LinkedIn. Help me create a connection message template that I can customize with specific details about each person. The message should be professional, specific, and under 200 characters." For LinkedIn follow-up messages, try: "I recently connected with someone on LinkedIn who [specific background detail] The key is using ChatGPT for structure while adding personal details about each LinkedIn contact. A message that mentions their recent article or company milestone performs far better than AI-generated content alone. Most entrepreneur profiles read like resumes rather than marketing tools. They list past jobs instead of showcasing current value and future potential. ChatGPT can help reframe your LinkedIn profile around client needs. Use this prompt: "I'm an entrepreneur in [industry] who helps [target client] achieve [specific outcome]. Help me write a LinkedIn headline and summary that attracts potential clients, partners, and investors. Focus on results I deliver rather than credentials I have." Your LinkedIn headline should answer this question: "What problem do you solve for whom?" Instead of "Startup Founder," try "Helping Restaurants Increase Revenue 30% Through Data-Driven Marketing | SaaS Entrepreneur | Foodtech Innovator." Young entrepreneurs can add credibility by highlighting specific results rather than relying solely on years of experience. For your LinkedIn summary, lead with client outcomes, include a brief origin story, and end with a clear call to action. It's all about developing and sharing your personal brand. Teen entrepreneurs should focus on passion, problem-solving abilities, and early wins rather than traditional credentials. People connect with entrepreneurs who can help them, regardless of age. Consistent posting on LinkedIn helps build visibility, but many entrepreneurs struggle with creating engaging content. They either share random thoughts or spend hours crafting posts that few people engage with. ChatGPT can generate LinkedIn content ideas aligned with your business goals. Try this prompt: "I'm building a [type of business] and want to attract [specific audience] on LinkedIn. Generate 10 post ideas that position me as an expert while providing value to potential clients. Include questions that encourage engagement." The most effective LinkedIn content for entrepreneurs combines industry insights with personal experiences. Share lessons from specific client projects, predictions based on your expertise, or frameworks you've developed. People follow entrepreneurs who offer practical wisdom, not generic business advice. Post consistently on LinkedIn rather than perfectly. Two valuable posts a week are better than one brilliant post quarterly. Random networking wastes time. Successful entrepreneurs connect strategically on LinkedIn with potential clients, partners, investors, and mentors who align with their business goals. ChatGPT can help you identify ideal LinkedIn connections. Use this prompt: "I'm building [business description] and need to connect with [specific types of people] on LinkedIn. What LinkedIn search terms should I use? What mutual interests or challenges might we share? How should I position myself when reaching out?" Create LinkedIn connection campaigns around specific business objectives. If you're raising funding, target angel investors in your particular industry or sector. If you need strategic partnerships, focus on complementary service providers. Quality beats quantity in LinkedIn entrepreneurial networking. Research LinkedIn prospects before connecting. Check their recent posts, company news, or mutual connections. A reference to their latest achievement or shared connection dramatically increases response rates. Networking isn't about collecting LinkedIn connections—it's about building relationships that create mutual value. Many entrepreneurs connect and then disappear, missing opportunities to develop partnerships. ChatGPT can help you maintain consistent LinkedIn engagement. Try this prompt: "I want to stay connected with my LinkedIn network without being pushy. Help me create a system for engaging with others' content, sharing valuable resources, and maintaining relationships over time." Engage with others' LinkedIn content before promoting your own. Comment thoughtfully on posts from potential clients or partners. Share relevant articles with specific LinkedIn connections who might find them helpful. Make introductions between contacts who could benefit from knowing each other. Use ChatGPT to draft LinkedIn comments that add value rather than just praise. Instead of "Great post!" try something like "This reminds me of a similar challenge we faced at [company]. We found that [specific insight] was particularly helpful. Thanks for sharing your perspective." ChatGPT makes LinkedIn networking more efficient, but successful entrepreneurs still invest time in building genuine relationships on LinkedIn. Use AI to handle structure, templates, and initial drafts, then add personal touches that reflect authentic interest in others. The entrepreneurs who succeed on LinkedIn provide value before asking for anything—regardless of their age or experience level. They share insights, make connections, and solve problems for others. ChatGPT makes these LinkedIn activities more scalable, giving younger entrepreneurs the tools to compete professionally. For teen and young entrepreneurs, start with one area—perhaps optimizing your LinkedIn profile or planning your next month of LinkedIn content. As you see results, expand your use of AI tools to other LinkedIn networking activities. The key advantage younger entrepreneurs have is adaptability and a willingness to embrace new tools, such as AI.
Washington Post
39 minutes ago
- Washington Post
Putin boasts about Russia's economy despite recession fears
ST. PETERSBURG, Russia — President Vladimir Putin on Friday hailed Russia's economic outlook, saying it has managed to curb inflation and ease its reliance on energy exports. His optimistic account in a speech at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum contrasted with somber statements by some members of his government who warned at the same conference that Russia could face a recession. Economic Minister Maxim Reshetnikov had said Thursday that the country is 'on the brink of going into a recession.'
New York Times
40 minutes ago
- New York Times
NBA star Kevin Durant invests in PSG, to consult on ‘potential' basketball expansion plans
Two-time NBA champion Kevin Durant has expanded his relationship with Qatar Sports Investments (QSI), investing directly into UEFA Champions League winners Paris Saint-Germain as part of a strategic partnership that will also see Durant consult on the club's 'potential plans' to expand into basketball. Advertisement In March, QSI revealed it had been approached about the possibility of launching a basketball franchise in Paris and that it had expressed an interest. The approach related to the NBA's potential expansion into Europe, under the moniker NBA Europe, and plans that have been developed under the leadership of commissioner Adam Silver. The Athletic reported in March that Silver would pitch the NBA Board of Governors with the outline of a plan to launch a new pro basketball league in Europe within the next couple of years. The prospective league had been hoping to attract 16 teams, which would include franchises in markets such as London and Paris, as well as possible defectors from the EuroLeague. Since then, there have been indications from NBA and EuroLeague executives that there may be a way to collaborate. EuroLeague CEO Paulius Motiejunas conceded to The Athletic that 'it is becoming more obvious that we have to work together', while NBA deputy commissioner Mark Tatum said the NBA intends to be the 'operator' of 'the top tier league in Europe.' Sources familiar with the planning, who wished to remain anonymous to protect relationships, confirmed PSG's ambitions in basketball relate to NBA Europe and indicated that it would be for the NBA and EuroLeague to thrash out what happens in Paris, where there is already a Paris team playing in EuroLeague. QSI, along with other major sports investors, are waiting for the NBA to launch its process for franchises in Europe. It remains to be seen whether NBA Europe will be a competitor or if some form of partnership with EuroLeague may develop. Durant's direct investment in PSG is a slightly convoluted affair. The 36-year-old had previously invested a single-digit million shareholding in the team, according to sources briefed on the matter but not authorized to speak publicly. This was made via his investment firm Boardroom, but this injection came via a financial vehicle created by the private equity firm Arctos Sports Partners. Arctos itself had purchased a 12.5 percent stake in the French team in December 2023, a deal which at the time valued PSG at around €4.25billion ($4.58bn; £3.64bn, currency figures based on the rates when the deal was announced). This latest deal, however, sees Durant exit the stake acquired via Arctos, with his exit taken up via other money from the fund, which means Arctos has not diluted and its stake remains at around 12.5 percent. Advertisement Durant has now taken a direct minority stake in PSG through Boardroom in tandem with his business partner and former long-time agent Rich Kleiman. The size of his investment is roughly the same as previously, but PSG is not disclosing the precise sum. In these partnerships, the access to the famous athlete and their connections, clout and expertise is, in any case, more valuable to the Qatari fund, which is not short of money. Durant, whose fourth Olympic gold medal came last year in Paris, said in a release: 'It is an honour to partner with QSI and be a shareholder in Paris Saint-Germain — a club and a city that is so close to my heart. This club has big plans ahead and I can't wait to be a part of the next phase of growth; and to explore new investment opportunities with QSI.' The stake, however, is just one aspect of the deal as PSG and Boardroom have also signed a strategic investment partnership. This means Boardroom and QSI will team up on commercial, investment and media content initiatives, as well as advising on PSG's growth in the U.S., while the parties will also develop merchandise together. Most crucially, perhaps, Durant will consult 'on Paris Saint-Germain's multi-sport strategy, including potential plans in basketball,' the release said, opening the door to Durant leading the way on NBA Europe's launch plans. Nasser Al-Khelaifi, chairman of Qatar Sports Investments, added: 'QSI is pleased to welcome Kevin Durant as a direct shareholder in Paris Saint-Germain and strategic partner of our group. We continually seek to elevate the club and our broader portfolio through high-impact partnerships that bring strategic value, innovation, and global perspective. Together with Kevin, we look forward to developing ambitious initiatives that will drive the continued global growth of Paris Saint-Germain and QSI.' Advertisement PSG's multi-sport empire already includes men's and women's soccer, youth soccer, handball and judo. Basketball will add to the set. PSG recently announced it is looking at fresh sites to build a new stadium away from their current home at Parc des Princes. The team is studying sites in Massy and Poissy and is examining a modern construct that will feature state-of-the-art sports and entertainment options. The club wants its stadium to be part of a multi-functional area and a destination. The team's CEO, Victoriano Melero, told Reuters last week that PSG may take inspiration from SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, Ca., which is a $5billion home to the NFL's Los Angeles Rams and Los Angeles Chargers, while it has hosted headline concerts for superstars such as Taylor Swift. It will also host eight matches during the World Cup in 2026 and events in the Olympic Games in 2028, but PSG have noted how the area has become a sports, entertainment and residential hub in Hollywood Park. The LA Clippers play at the Intuit Dome, a newly opened NBA arena a mile from the stadium. Analysis by senior NBA writer Joe Vardon Paris has always been a coveted market and center to any designs Silver has of starting a new league in Europe. This is no secret, nor is it a secret that the NBA's intended partner there is PSG because of the enormous financial and marketing power of the soccer conglomerate. PSG and its Qatari owners don't need Durant's money, nor, really, even his media company. But they are likely going to build a new arena — Durant could consult. As the league comes online, they'll need a practice facility and coaches, where perhaps Durant could weigh in. Imagine if Durant… played for PSG basketball. At age 36, Durant, who wants to continue playing, can sign a two-year extension this summer (presumably after he's traded by the Phoenix Suns). Silver has suggested it could take a few years to bring NBA Europe online. What if the league launched with Durant as its signature player? Don't rule it out — I have had prominent NBA coaches tell me they'd love to live and coach in Paris once their contracts run out. Advertisement Otherwise, Durant as a name partner with PSG could, conceivably, help in a likely competition for fans with the current Parisian pro team, Paris Basketball, which competes in the EuroLeague and top French pro league, has a new arena, and also holds near exclusivity for games at Paris' largest arena, Bercy.
