Just started a boutique indie shop. Three weeks in and the founder told me they make 3% margin, 5 on a good month: This is bad right? They have a great, niche product and the creative is adored. But 3%..!

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That's razor thin...about 17% short of where they should be

Isn’t it just. I didn’t think to check this when I took the job. There is a managing partner above me but she’s on maternity leave until December. I don’t know if the founders just don’t *want* to make money or they’ve tried some things and failed. What’s the best way to go around trying to help them without looking like I’m rushing too early? Just ask lots of questions? Conscious I haven’t been here for long. (I personally think we have a lot of over-burn on senior time and we are undercharging for add-on projects. But I never know when or how to raise ideas.)

Place’ll get knocked down by a light breeze.

If that’s true. They won’t last unless they get lucky. It also means they don’t have a clear understanding of how the industry operates.

That’s a scary realization. The good thing is you have a clear understanding of your situation.

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