Some topics covered this week:

• How do you build a team when you're just starting?
• Why is recruiting/hiring so important??
• Recruiters as the “experts” when renovating your “home”
• How do you find the right recruiters
• How not to work with recruiters

Welcome to the pod!

In this first episode, Andrew and Ben briefly introduce the inspiration behind the podcast and then dig into the importance of people and recruitment for early/middle-stage startups.

What if your startup's early hires could mean the difference between success and failure? Join us for the debut episode of "Startup Sucks" as we unravel the complexities of early hiring strategies and their monumental impact on the startup ecosystem. I’m Andrew, a software engineer who took an unconventional path through product management and recruitment, and I'm here with my co-host, Ben Hanley, the founder of Vertex Search and Consulting. With over a decade of combined experience spanning bootcamps, hyper-growth phases, and San Francisco's bustling tech scene, we aim to provide a raw, unfiltered look at the realities of startup life.

In this episode, we dive deep into the pivotal role of mission-aligned individuals and the significant contributions of technically proficient recruiters. From leveraging tools like LinkedIn Premium to the nuanced process of refining job requirements, we share practical insights and hard-earned lessons. Ben discusses the crucial collaboration between founders and recruiters, stressing why early hires, although costly, are critical to a startup's success. Our conversation covers the challenges and rewards of hiring in a startup environment, highlighting the pitfalls of mass messaging and the value of personalized recruitment strategies.

We also explore the different dynamics between working closely with founders versus middle managers and the flexibility required in remote work settings. The evolving tech landscape, influenced by AI, and the necessity for adaptable talent are also on the agenda. Whether you're a recruiter, engineer, or product manager, this episode offers a treasure trove of actionable advice and personal anecdotes. Tune in to hear our stories and strategies, providing a comprehensive guide to navigating the unpredictable yet exhilarating world of startups.

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