General Catalyst

The Peril of Premature Expansion: A Historical Echo We observe in the annals of ancient societies a recurring pattern: the allure of rapid expansion, often leading to unforeseen vulnerabilities. Today, the modern startup faces an analogous challenge with its growth – particularly in Hiring. The immediate impulse, especially after securing resources, is to expand aggressively. Yet, history teaches us caution. Like a nascent city hastily constructing walls without first ensuring a robust water supply, unchecked hiring can create an illusion of strength masking profound internal weaknesses. The true challenge lies not in merely adding numbers, but in understanding the genuine, underlying structural necessities. The Signal of Necessity: Pain as a Primary Source Our primary sources from antiquity often highlight the wisdom of responding to genuine needs, not perceived ones. Yuri Sagalov from General Catalyst articulates this precisely: hire only when the 'pain is real.' This 'pain' acts as an undeniable signal, a primary source revealing a true functional void within the organization. It compels a founder to meticulously identify precisely which role, which specific expertise, will genuinely strengthen the collective, rather than simply expanding headcount. This thoughtful approach protects the very essence of the culture, the shared values that bind a thriving community. Cultivating Resilience: Intentional Augmentation Ancient engineers did not simply pile stones; they placed each with purpose, understanding its load-bearing capacity and its fit within the grand design. We adopt a similar rigor here. When the authentic need manifests, approach hiring with profound intention. This involves a deep assessment of the existing team’s capabilities, identifying the exact fissure that requires mending, the specific capacity that demands augmentation. This measured, deliberate placement of talent not only prevents the costly demolition of layoffs but also fortifies the cultural bedrock, ensuring a cohesive and adaptable unit capable of weathering unforeseen shifts. The Mindset of Enduring Founders: Patience and Foresight The notion of 'waiting until it hurts' might seem counterintuitive in a culture that often glorifies speed. Yet, the most enduring civilizations were those built on patience, strategic foresight, and an intimate understanding of their own limits and resources. Embracing this disciplined approach is not stagnation; it is a conscious act of resilience. It cultivates a foundational strength, allowing the organization to build an authentic narrative of growth, rather than one punctuated by desperate retrenchments. This mindset transforms a fleeting venture into a potential enduring legacy. Building for Longevity: A Legacy Forged in Deliberation To build a lasting structure, whether a monumental temple or a thriving enterprise, demands more than mere ambition; it requires deliberation. By waiting for genuine need, by hiring with surgical precision, founders ensure their startups possess a longer, more stable trajectory. This foresight mitigates the devastating impact of sudden contractions, preserving the collective spirit and the vital resources. It ensures the endeavor does not become a mere archaeological footnote of failed ambition but a testament to thoughtful, sustainable construction, an enduring story of triumph over the impulsiveness of the moment.