Hiring: What Matters When You're Just Starting

Sam Altman once said, “The team you build is the company you build.” This is gospel truth, especially in the early days of a startup. Those initial hires aren't just filling seats; they're literally constructing the DNA of your company.

Here’s what really matters when you’re laying this foundation:

1. Vision Sharing, Not Just Goal SettingForget the tired script of goal alignment; that’s checking a box. What you need is to share your vision. This isn't just about what you're doing but why it's important. Replace traditional interviews with meaningful conversations. Engage deeply on where the company is headed and gauge if they're just as excited about these prospects as you are. You’re not just hiring employees; you’re looking for partners.
2. Think Long-Term Value, Not Just Immediate NeedsIt's easy to get caught up in the now—especially with pressing needs staring you down. But hiring is an investment. Consider what each role will evolve into over the years. This approach ensures you’re not just solving today’s problems but nurturing a team that will grow and adapt with your company.
3. Flexibility Over SpecializationThe early stages of a startup are less like a marathon and more like parkour. You need people who can adapt quickly and are excited by the challenge of unexpected roles. While specialists have their place, a small, growing team needs agile generalists—people who are curious and eager to learn.
4. Culture is Everyone’s BusinessYou can’t single-handedly create culture, but you can shape it with every hire. Each new team member influences your company’s ethos. One wrong hire can shift the dynamic in ways you didn’t anticipate. Choose people who embody the spirit and values you envision for your company.
5. Humanity FirstRemember, behind every resume is a living, breathing person. These candidates are considering spending a significant part of their life at your company. Honor that. Treat each interaction with the respect and gratitude it deserves. This human-centric approach can often lead you to the right hire more effectively than any checklist.

Getting hiring right isn’t just important—it's crucial. The people you bring on now will define your company's trajectory. They are your company, in the most literal sense.Remember, it's not just about building a team; it's about building your company’s future.