doacWeb's CEO, Didi-Omah, explains how 'small team' as a startup is the biggest advantage over big companies

I will say, the future belongs to those that prepare for it. Many small businesses are not preparing for the future, change is constant and is permanent. 

No founder succeed without a team, you have the product or service, you have the basic relevant applicable knowledge, you have the purpose, you have the plan, you have the vision, you have the mission — you need a team to get the success. 

Even Jesus Christ needed twelve men, for his ministry to pull multitude of people in every country he entered! And for him to achieve maximum success.

Having a small team together as a startup, is the biggest advantage over the big companies. A team that can share two pizzas together, a team of five to seven people in your organisation.

Because, it is easier to make decisions, drive fast, take chances, be productive, be effective, and make changes possible.

The future belongs to small businesses, I mean small business owners — because it is easier to build people and listen to their problems, when you have close relationship with them. Good communication and team spirit, that is what is needed to make the big break happens. 

When small business owners, focus on creating a product that people want, a product that don't scale, invest in the team, and keep talking to their users; which is the customers. They tend to progress faster and expand in the market. 

Small business owners must build a brand, don't destroy it. Focus on personalization, not standardisation — if they want to succeed through over the big companies. Be different, not doing what the big players are doing; because copying from the big players will keep you in the dark, to be the light, study and learn from them, and do yours differently.

Never ignore the government, most small business owners that are doing well in business, forget to have connection with their government. Focus on Government Relations, give more attention to Government Relations. 

If you are running a business, that must serve nations, mass people, and want to expand your boundaries, sell across your boarders. The minority of today can be the majority of tomorrow.

Still on the government relations: Build connections, network with party leaders, youth leaders, chairpersons, and elected officials. Visit those in the top levels of the society, not with empty hands, but with offering — it can be gifts, cash or kinds!

Offer value, this could be financial (sponsorship/donations), strategic (policy ideas), or social (influence in a community). Stay neutral in public if needed — protect your business from political backlash. 

Offer your business as a service provider to the party or politicians (e.g., printing, logistics, catering). Use your political connections to win contracts but ensure your business operates professionally. Separate your political activities from business operations — let your team handle daily operations while you network politically. 

Build systems that run without you. Hire trusted hands to manage day-to-day activities of your business, while you handle political commitments. Have a clean, credible online brand. Use platforms like doacWeb to distribute business-related content and updates.

You’re not just joining politics to clap at rallies. You want strategic influence. Offer what others don’t — Your business acumen gives you an edge. Offer political insights, business solutions, or sponsor small community projects under the party name. Being in politics gives you access — don’t misuse it, but leverage it responsibly. What You Offer What You Gain.

This is quite broad, most business owners are ignorant of these — and they are perishing. Do keep your business legal and professional. Be visible, but not boastful. Maintain strong records — you may need to show investors, politicians and government you’re credible. Sponsor youth or community programs under your business name in alignment with your business' mission, and political party's mission. 

Take this; to be a successful business owner that have good government relations or involve in politics: you are not a politician, remember you are a business owner. Never campaign against any politician or political party — you never know the next minute. Don't involve yourself or your business in any political crisis; yes you love Politician A, you belong to political party B, but be neutral and live a quiet life. 

Don't use business money to fund politics blindly. Don't attach your entire brand to one politician (especially during elections). Don't mix political drama with your business team or staff. 

I will say this as final strategy: build legacy, not noise! 

A strong business owner in politics or government relations must build legacy — not just wealth or power. Stay humble, even when wealthy and powerful — a policy can bring you down to ground, and you won't love to be poor. 

Support causes and initiatives that matter. Empower young entrepreneurs, share platforms, and use influence to uplift others. Document your journey to build a story worth telling (blogs, speeches, publications). 

Focus on raising people, not money. Building your team, satisfying your customers. Updating your product or service to meet people's wants, and market demands — not necessarily government need. Focus on government relations, and treat your investors as family. 

Be purpose driven, not profit driven! As a business owner, if you really want to be successful and be great in your field.

© Didi-Omah Augustine Chinazaekpere 

Founder/CEO, doacweb.com, Africa