5 March 2021|Latest Posts, Meet the Successful Founder
Krishna Subramanian is the co-founder, president, and COO of Komprise, the leader in analytics-driven data management software. Krishna is no stranger to founding, building, merging, and acquiring tech companies – she has built three successful venture-backed IT businesses and held senior leadership positions at major companies, such as Sun Microsystems and Citrix. With 21+ years of experience as a senior software executive, Krishna has successfully generated over $500M+ new revenues, with proven industry expertise in SaaS, cloud computing, and data management.
What would you love to share with other women to encourage them to start their own business?
Starting a company is very rewarding, but it also takes a lot of hard work. Think about something you are passionate about – perhaps a problem you have personally encountered that you know others also have, and one you have a unique solution to. It’s tempting to dive right in, but spending the time upfront in vetting the idea, talking to as many potential customers as possible, and ensuring that you are convinced you are willing to spend the next several years on the idea is important. Your passion and belief will convince others to follow you.
What are your top 5 tips for entrepreneurial success?
Play to your strengths – you have to make a lot of decisions with inadequate data in a startup, and your own understanding and passion will drive your decisions.
Build alliances early – entrepreneurs worry that someone might steal their idea, but building a company involves a lot more than an idea. It is important to talk with as many potential customers, influencers and potential partners as possible to build alliances and shape your idea.
Its OK to fail – making mistakes is how we learn, so don’t worry. Adapt from them and try not to repeat the same mistake
Don’t be discouraged by venture capitalist feedback – investors have a tough job, they have to pick the right bets to place and they may not always resonate with your idea or with you. Do not be discouraged by getting “no’s” from investors – it’s not personal.
Listen to your customers – Because customers use your solution and give you valuable feedback, it’s important to understand their needs and future pain points.
Who are the top 5 women who inspire you the most?
Ada Lovelace and Grace Hopper for their pioneering work in computer science.
Grace Hopper inspired me to study compilers in my master’s thesis.
Margaret Thatcher – The first female prime minister of UK.
Indira Nooyi – The female CEO of Pepsico.
Jhansi Rani – The Indian queen who bravely defended her kingdom and inspired others
What is your favourite saying/Inspirational quote?
“Our greatest glory is not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall”. — Confucius
Website and Socials
Website: https://www.komprise.com
Company social handles: https://twitter.com/Komprise
Personal social handles: https://www.linkedin.com/in/krishnasub/
