This weeks tips:
Authenticity. Prospective
employees are drawn to businesses where the leader is deeply motivated by
solving a problem, often in a clever and unique way. While that’s often the
case at a startup, it’s critical to find ways to convey this to the folks you
are recruiting while they are in the process with you.
Generosity. Don’t be afraid to award someone a big piece of the
company to reflect the risk they are taking in joining at such an early stage.
Be generous and then set high expectations. And remember that vesting is your friend.
These days a one-year cliff and four-year vesting schedule seem pretty standard
in employment contracts. Meaning, you can work with someone for almost a full
year before they vest a single share; they vest that first quarter of their
options grant only after completing 12 months at the company. Now I don’t think
you should ever plan to fire in month 11 to avoid giving out equity, but
knowing that you have the option to terminate employment if the first 3-6-9
months do not work out well gives you some more flexibility to give out an
enticing options package.
Communication. First, and most importantly is communication. Without proper
communication and clarity around what you expect from a team member you cannot
expect their performance to align with your perceived expectation(s). Secondly,
expectations are a two-way street. You
cannot ask for a high level of performance from a team member without outlining
what you are contributing to the mix. Generally, a strong level of support will
demonstrate to your team that you are in fact committed to assist them in
meeting expectations and key milestones.
I love what you've written. Particular in generosity, It's a big pleasure for those who are doing great and I think it generates the other to work hard.
ReplyDeleteAll very good points! If a business fully invests in its employees, those employees will in turn give back to the business. They are motivated as they feel a part of the company. Customer relationships will improve, as will attitudes. A positive feedback loop will be created in which management, employees, and customers will all be a part of the resulting rising tide.
ReplyDeleteI loved your approach on how you present your ideas. I just want to add that business registration in the Philippines is also a vital factor that every business owner should comply.
ReplyDelete