Common mistakes entrepreneurs make

CBS Interactive's Marquez says, 'Be focus and have one objective'

As the head of M&A and investments at CBS Interactive, Mike Marquez gets pitched often. To that end, it's good to have an understanding of what he looks for in companies he'd buy or invest in or partner with. Like many investors and entrepreneurs, Mike advises entrepreneurs to be laser focused on one strategy and one value proposition. While this advice may seem pretty straightforward and easy to follow, being all over the map is one of the biggest mistakes entrepreneurs make. "In the earlier stages when you have limited resources, it makes it really, really hard to drive significant value and beat off the competition in areas you want to compete in," he said, in a recent interview. Additionally, Mike likes to see the entrepreneurs who are really passionate. "When you're making the pitch, make sure that passion comes through," he advises. Mike also says that companies that stay top of mind and visible are the ones he'll more likely take a look at for investments, acquisitions or partnerships.

Note: See my earlier interview with Mike discussing the M&A landscape. And, watch Mike as guest host of our Vator Box show.

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