“Think about how to keep people engaged in their day jobs,” and remember “what it was that got us here in the first place.”  Avoid distraction leading up to (and after) the IPO by reminding your employees that their efforts will be reflected in your public filings.

Startups often tout a highly transparent culture and an aversion to the bureaucracy and processes that may come with becoming a public company.  Find a balance around sharing company information and legal processes while preserving your culture.

It's very helpful to get your corporate documents in order (including, particularly, your board book) and to get in front of any potential tax, securities (including equity vesting) or audit issues. Quality advisors (law firms, bankers and team members) can be very helpful on this front.