The One Who Did It Before

Frequently we are asked to find the person who “did it before”. The one who scaled and has a proven track record of leading the charge at a high-growth company.

It feels like an easier hire, a safer bet and a business accelerator. Find me the person who did it before so they can now do it for us. It does feel that way but it is not always the case.

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Here’s why:

• Timing, product, industry and marketplaces are always shifting, which demands a new playbook.
• Company culture and personal dynamics play a larger role than most people consider.
• It is never a singular person who scaled. It is always a team and many factors contribute to a person's success.

Consider this:
The person who did it before, DID NOT do it before that. Somebody took a bet on them because they saw the potential. The first time builder is often driven by a passion and desire that can rarely be replicated. They are motivated by things other than money or stature and what they are willing to sacrifice is different than somebody who has already achieved a high-level of success.

It is tempting to hire the person who did it before but don't discount the person with bright-eyed ambition who is ready to do it now and ready to do it for you.

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