“Things I hate. 1. Boring Business blogs 2. Lame attempts at Humor  3. Lists. – Especially Lists.”

Why do I detest lists so much? Because. They’re unexciting. And, gimmicky. And over-used.  And well, all sequential and business-y and stuff.

Therefore, I vow, dear reader, to spare you the pain of reading another dull list.

Err, well,  until after this post of course.

But, this one isn’t dull. I promise. It’s essential. Trust me, you need this. – Particularly, if you’re starting a business.

You see, a lot of people who start companies think that the technology or the product is the most important thing. But they’re mistaken. The people are the most important thing. Without good people there is no technology, or product or service. So, it’s vitally important that you get the people part right.  To do that there are 3 things you absolutely, positively must keep in mind as you look to hire talent. 

1. Hire Doers. Above all else – You need people who can execute. One of the advantages a small business has is its ability to avoid bureaucracy and move more quickly than larger corporations. Be sure to look for people who can wear lots of hats and just get sh*t done.
2. Give your employees autonomy. Often, founders of start-ups and small businesses are so emotionally invested in their company that they think they need to be involved in all the decision-making. What your start up really needs is for you to hire good people who you believe have the intelligence and good judgment to make smart decisions without having to consult you or get your stamp of approval each step of the way. Get out of the way; you’re just slowing things down.
3. Exercise extreme caution before bringing on executives with “big company” experience. It’s always temping to hire people from big companies because they have a pedigree that seems really attractive. But be careful, people from big corporate cultures are also used to having lots of support. They’re accustomed to processes and channels of operation. Also, in their previous position they may have been more narrowly focused on one job, instead of juggling multiple roles simultaneously. The transition for them can be difficult. It can also be challenging and unproductive for the start-up. (See item #1 above)

So, next time you’re starting a company; start by hiring the right people. The rest will follow.

This much I know.

-Jeanine