THIS or THAT.
21 behaviors I’ve noticed in the best founders I’ve worked with:
1. They actively seek the truth and feedback – even if it hurts. They put being effective before their own sensitivity.
2. They work smarter not harder (but still hard).
3. They are assertive with what they want – they follow-up immediately and have a sense of urgency.
4. They are disagreeable but low ego – they solicit feedback, weigh options, and choose the direction that’s right for the business.
5. They are quick to lay off talent that isn’t working, or that’s simply good and not great. They understand sunk costs and move on decisively.
6. They are in command of their emotions and do not act impulsively.
7. They are paranoid. They are protective of their information, strategy, and talent.
8. They are obsessed with their time and energy. They actively recognize and cut off low ROI sinks.
9. They care more about facts vs. emotions, and have the leadership and courage to make unpopular decisions, and stand up for what is best for the business. They also take total responsibility for their decisions and the company’s performance.
10. They still understand the importance of culture.
11. They have done tremendous self work and have incredible awareness / abilities to read others and opportunities.
12. They are adaptable and adjust in light of new data.
13. They are persistent and resilient. They see “no” as “not now” and have the mentality of the only way their business will fail is if they give up.
14. They are optimistic and deterministic. They believe they CAN and they WILL.
15. They are big visionaries, and have clear execution that maps to a clear, big vision.
16. They have a keen understanding of human nature.
17. They are contrarian – they think and do things differently. Many don’t understand them or their decisions.
18. They always find ways to leapfrog / skip steps. They somehow pull off the “impossible”.
19. They understand the details matter and outlearning others is a massive advantage.
20. They understand their gaps and what’s needed from a resource and team standpoint.
21. They are tight with capital, mindful of dilution, and slow to hire – in the beginning of the business especially as it is most critical.
Comment: what else?
