There are many reasons why a startup wins or loses.
The fundamentals of the startups and how they acquire users are good tells.
But there’s another vital tell— who’s willing to join them.
Beware any startup hiring online or using recruiting firms.
The next unicorn isn’t hiring on LinkedIn.
At the next unicorn, word of mouth spreads quickly.
People tell their friends and openings are easily filled— and quickly.
If a startup’s team doesn’t know anyone willing to join— this is a huge red flag.
But….
Why don’t startups post jobs online to increase the number of candidates!?
Well, here’s a little secret:
Startups don’t hire the best talent.
We aren’t trying to.
We’re not looking for the best, we’re looking for the most dedicated.
And dedicated hires aren’t found spamming LinkedIn job applications.
We search for true believers….
People who want to build the Future together while having the time of their lives.
The best startups never have public job listings.
If they do, it’s a tell that no one wants to join.
The only way to join the next unicorn is to know someone on the inside.