From university founder to 8-figure exit: Tim's career lessons
Tim Armoo started Fanbytes while at university and went on to build a 75-person business before an eight-figure exit. He shares what he got wrong, what he looks for when hiring and his advice for anyone starting their career.
5 min read ·
Tim Armoo didn't follow the traditional graduate career path. Instead of finding his first job after university, he started a business while he was still studying.
At just 21, he founded Fanbytes, an influencer marketing agency that went on to work with brands including Nike and Samsung. Over five years, he grew the business to 75 people before its eight-figure acquisition.
BrighterBox helped Fanbytes build its team along the way, so we caught up with Tim to find out what he'd learnt.
What's the biggest mistake you made early in your career?
Trying to do everything himself.
Tim admits that he spent too much time attempting to be an all-rounder rather than focusing on what he was naturally good at.
Once he recognised his strengths and concentrated on them, the business grew faster.
What makes a great graduate CV?
For Tim, it's about showing results rather than simply listing responsibilities.
He looks for candidates who can explain what they personally contributed and how their work affected the business.
Rather than saying you helped with a project, explain what you actually did and what changed because of it. Revenue generated, sales increased or improvements delivered all help demonstrate your impact.
What's your best advice for someone starting their career?
Find something you can become known for.
Tim encourages people to take ownership of projects and develop a particular skill that makes them valuable to their team.
It might be design, presentations, analysis or something else entirely. Becoming the person colleagues turn to for a particular skill can create opportunities to progress.
What's the best advice you've received?
"Always follow your curiosity."
Tim believes that exploring interesting ideas and remaining curious can lead to unexpected breakthroughs.
Any book recommendations?
The Startup of You by Reid Hoffman.
The takeaway
You don't have to be brilliant at everything to build a successful career.
Find your strengths, take ownership of your work, show the difference you've made and stay curious. That's a pretty good place to start.
