There’s nothing better than the passion that drives startup products. The fizzing energy in a brand new team, that killer idea, everything to play for.

But, the path to startup success can be rocky, filled with unforeseen challenges that can derail even the most promising projects. An overlooked reason why startups fail? The “Startup Vampire.”

So, what is a startup vampire? 🧛🏻

These shapeshifters seem supportive and enthusiastic but can slowly drain the energy and momentum from a thriving business. Startup Vampires are people or groups in your business that, instead of being helpful, suck away resources and stall progress.

Yes, I’m talking about those agencies and consultants who tout lean startup methods and effective product development but prioritise quick profits over meaningful action.

Recognising the signs of these vampires is crucial for the survival and growth of your SaaS startup.

6 ways to spot a Startup Vampire

So, how can you catch these dangerous players before they sneak onto your projects? Here are some telltale signs we’ve picked up over the years:  

1. Overpromises and under-delivers

A classic trait of a Startup Vampire is their tendency to make grand promises but fail to deliver results. They may boast about their impressive track record and propose ambitious plans, but when it’s time to execute, they often fall short.

2. Guarded and isolated

Startup Vampires often keep critical information to themselves and prefer to work in isolation rather than collaborating. This behaviour leads to confusion and misalignment within the team, which can undermine your startup’s core values.

3. Quick wins over sustainable growth

These vampires are all about chasing quick wins, focusing on short-term gains instead of building for the future. While it might feel good in the moment, this shortsighted approach can steer your company away from its core vision, leading to decisions that boost metrics temporarily but ultimately hurt your long-term success.  

4. Strays from core vision with shiny features

Another trick they pull is pushing for features that stray from your startup’s core vision. They’ll advocate for unnecessary features just to rack up extra cash on the invoice. Staying focused on your mission is crucial for keeping your brand strong.  

5. Flashy marketing without strategy

Startup Vampires often roll out flashy marketing campaigns without a solid strategy in place, creating the illusion of success. By focusing on looks rather than effectiveness, they can impress investors or future clients, even if those campaigns deliver no real results. It’s all about projecting an image of progress instead of achieving sustainable growth. 

6. Overlooking usability testing

Many fall into the trap of skipping usability testing, often due to misplaced confidence. These vampires view usability testing as an optional step to save time and money. Spoiler alert: you end up saving neither.  

How to handle Startup Vampires

Build a strong company culture

To deal with Startup Vampires, focus on creating a company culture that values transparency, open communication, and a shared vision. A solid foundation will foster an environment where everyone feels valued and engaged, making it harder for vampires to thrive.

Setting clear expectations and guidelines

It’s essential to set clear expectations and guidelines for your team and partners to keep everyone aligned with your long-term goals. Regular check-ins and feedback sessions can help uncover any hidden agendas and make sure everyone is working together toward success.

Trusting your gut and making tough choices  

Trusting your instincts is essential when dealing with Startup Vampires. If you identify individuals who don’t align with your startup’s best interests, don’t hesitate to sever ties.

Spot the vampires and let your startup thrive 

Addressing Startup Vampires quickly is a crucial step to building a successful startup and steering clear of being just another statistic in the “why startups fail” list. 

By staying true to your core values and fostering a motivated, united team, your startup can shine. You don’t need Startup Vampires spinning tales to drain your funding or complicate your product.

Where can I find a SaaS product team I can trust?

If you’re seeking a reliable SaaS product team, prioritise those who align with your vision and values. We pride ourselves on being transparent, taking a realistic approach to your goals, and being committed to your startup’s success.  

Reach out for a chat, we’d love to hear from you.