How to Build an HR Tech Startup with Techstars, gBeta, and Business Mentors with Darrian Mikell

In 2019, Darrian Mikell received the dreaded call no one wants: he had been laid off from his job. With a few months of severance, Darrian faced a true test of grit and perseverance, turning life's obstacles into opportunities by going all in on Qualifi. As the Co-Founder and CEO of Qualifi, Darrian has built a software platform that powers the fastest phone interview experience in the world, helping recruiting teams hire great candidates faster than ever before. Since 2019, he has been dedicated to building Qualifi, and in 2021, he participated in the Techstars Anywhere Accelerator.

In our conversation with Darrian, we explore the correlation between sports and business, highlighting how athletic principles can provide a strong framework for running a business. Darrian shares his journey of growing a startup from 2 to 70 employees in three years and how overcoming adversity helped launch Qualifi. He offers valuable insights on being a good co-founder and perfecting your pitch. This episode is filled with practical advice on identifying opportunities even in troubling circumstances and tips for staying proactive with your network. Join us to learn from Darrian's experiences and gain inspiration from his remarkable entrepreneurial journey.