61 - The Celine Dion Factor
Essential components for someone to thrive in an early stage startup
I’ve written about the Right Person, Right Role, Right Stage model with hiring. I’ve broken down the Right Person, written about Right Role and Right Stage. Early stage startups require the Celine Dion Factor.
In The Power of Love, Celine Dion belts from the top of her accomplished lungs that “we’re headed for something. Somewhere I’ve never been. Sometimes I get frightened. But I’m ready to learn”. This is a near perfect encapsulation of the mindset required to thrive working in an early stage startup. To unpack it:
We’re headed for something - they are purposive, action oriented. They default don’t wait to be asked. They beg for forgiveness vs ask for permission. They operate with personal direction along with the broader we of the mission of the business;
Somewhere I’ve never been - they can thrive within a lack of structure. They are comfortable, or more to the point not paralysingly uncomfortable, operating in conditions of extreme uncertainty that are an inextricable part of doing something truly innovative;
Sometimes I get frightened - setbacks and mistakes will be a constant companion. They can deal with a majority of things they try not working. There will be times where things look bleak;
Ready to learn - how we and they individually can improve. They are slope vs Y-Intercept people. Most of all to learn by doing and trying things out. They are an enthusiastic do’er - not just a planner and overseer;
That’s the Celine Dion Factor. More to come on hiring in the coming days. Any feedback, or suggestions for areas to cover in coming posts, greatly appreciated.