Why Founders Need Passion (and Why Employees Don't)
As a founder, you're obsessed with your product idea, and that's a good thing! You need that fire in your belly to take the leap and build something amazing. That unwavering belief is what gets you through the long nights before reaching product-market fit. Naturally, you want to share that passion, to build a team that feels the same way.
Don’t fall into the trap
Visions of a company culture where everyone bleeds the company colors and rallies behind the mission are inspiring. There's something undeniably powerful about a shared vision. However, it's easy to fall into the trap of believing that everyone you bring on board needs to carry the same weight of responsibility, the same level of all-consuming passion that burns within you.
Don’t hire an army of clones
But here's the key to building a strong team: recognizing different forms of commitment. The talented engineer, designer, or product manager you hire isn't going to have the same stake in the company's success as you do, the founder. They shouldn't be expected to work the same crazy hours or make the same personal sacrifices. Their commitment is – and should be – measured by their excellence in their specific role. A reliable engineer who delivers exceptional work is infinitely more valuable than a passionate but mediocre one.
Building a Winning Team: Hire Needed Skills, not a cult
Remember, a passionate founder doesn't need a team of clones. You need talented individuals who excel in their roles and are constantly striving to improve. Shift your hiring focus from blind faith in the mission to a clear assessment of their skills, experience, and dedication to growth. Don't stop there! Look for individuals who thrive on achieving clear goals, whether it's exceeding customer expectations or mastering new technologies and approaches. By valuing expertise, a commitment to learning, and a results-oriented mindset, you'll build a team that complements your own fire and propels your company toward success.
They’re just along for the ride
It’s worth reiterating: You created and boarded the rocket ship, you’re all in. But everyone you hire for a salary is on their own journey. They might look for a career challenge, they might just enjoy the supportive colleagues, at best they might be very happy with the positive impact of your company. However, they’re just along for the ride, for a while. Most of the people you hire will have a moment in their lives in which your company is not a fit anymore for their personal ambitions or comfort. And that’s OK. That’s life.
Don’t get hung up on your own ambitions and miss out on great people just because they won’t record a 2-minute-video of themselves speaking on how inspiring they find your company’s mission.
Yes, that was a real requirement I’ve seen recently in a job ad. 🤷♂️