Christine Comaford-Lynch is the CEO at MightyVentures. In addition, she is also a keynote speaker, serial entrepreneur, venture capitalist, writer, and it doesn't end there, former software engineer, geisha trainee, and Buddhist monk! To find out more about this magnificent lady who has led many lives, please see her here.

With the competition levels of today's cut throat economy, how are you
retaining and hiring employees?

We use lots of contractors for product design, web site work, marketing. Many are scattered across the world. We work on building emotional equity--getting them engaged in our mission and also helping them to fulfill theirs. This results in a strong bond that builds loyalty. No doubt about it--great people are a treasure. You must treat them well to keep them around!

In your opinion, what were the key components to making this startup a
success?

Great people, carefully selecting our clients (we have a waiting list),
continuously adding massive value and using technology to do a better job of
this

What are your top two tips for new Entrepreneurs starting up?

Get advice from those who've been successful! Know the 7 things you must do:

1. Study & model startup successes
2. Communicate your business via a powerful plan
3. Get enough money: the right type of financing on the right terms
4. Hire the right blend of staff
5. Know how to handle competition
6. Enlist powerful & connected mentors to help you succeed
7. Build emotional equity, so you reach escape velocity