A POSITIVE HABITS ARTICLE BY IAN C.TOMLIN
#startupteam #leadership #entrepreneurlife
Every entrepreneur dreams of building a rocket ship – a company that takes off and disrupts the market. But the fuel for that rocket isn't just a passionate idea, it's the people you bring on board. Here's a truth I wish I'd known earlier: a well-balanced executive team is critical for steering your startup in the right direction.
The Three Pillars of an Effective Exec Team
Building a successful startup requires a diverse set of skills. Here are the three key personalities you need in your exec team:
#1. The Technician (The “How”)
This person understands the nitty-gritty of your product or service. They’re the expert, the problem solver, and the one who ensures your idea can actually be built.
#2. The Manager (The “Who & When”)
They’re the glue that holds everything together. Managers excel at planning, execution, and keeping the team on track. They delegate tasks, motivate employees, and ensure everyone’s working towards the same goal.
#3. The Entrepreneur (The “Why & What”)
The visionary leader. They ignite passion, set the long-term direction, and drive innovation. They see opportunities others miss and have an unwavering belief in the company’s potential.
Why Balance Matters
Imagine a one-legged rocket. It might look cool, but it’s not going anywhere. A balanced executive team provides the stability and agility needed for success:
Feasibility Check
The technician ensures the entrepreneur’s vision is grounded in reality. They identify potential roadblocks and offer solutions before things spiral out of control.
“The single biggest mistake that most startups make is pursuing a fundamentally flawed business model.” (A strong technician can help you avoid this pitfall.)
Noam Wasserman, author of The Founder’s Dilemmas
Execution Powerhouse
The manager translates the entrepreneur’s dreams into actionable steps and keeps the team accountable. They ensure resources are allocated efficiently and deadlines are met.
‘What Makes a Successful Startup Team,’ a key factor is having a team that can “balance strategic vision with flawless execution.”
Harvard Business Review
Vision & Innovation
The entrepreneur keeps everyone focused on the “why” behind the business. They inspire the team, identify new opportunities, and champion calculated risks.
‘If you are not embarrassed by the first version of your product, you’ve launched too late.’ (An entrepreneur with a fire in their belly will push the team to constantly innovate.)
Reid Hoffman, co-founder of LinkedIn
Finding the Perfect Balance
Building this dream team isn’t always easy. Here are some tips:
Look for Diversity
Don’t just hire carbon copies of yourself. Look for individuals who complement your strengths and weaknesses.
Hire for Skill & Culture
Technical skills are important, but don’t underestimate cultural fit. Your team needs to work together seamlessly, share your vision, and be passionate about achieving the same goals.
Don’t Be Afraid to Evolve
As your company grows, your needs will change. Be prepared to adjust your team composition to ensure you have the right expertise in place.
The Takeaway
A balanced exec team is the secret sauce for propelling your startup towards success. By combining technical expertise, strong leadership, and an innovative spirit, you’ll be well on your way to building a company that takes the market by storm. Now, go forth and build your dream team!