The Power of People: A Founder's Guide to Success

Give it a read: "Culture Up" is your go-to guide for startup success. In the fast-paced world of startups, where fresh ideas have the power to change the game, this book emphasizes the vital role of culture and people. Packed with real stories, practical tips, and best practices, it's a hands-on resource to help founders and managers build a strong company culture and find the right team. With a straightforward approach, "Culture Up" tackles one of the top reasons why 93% of startups fail in their first 3 years—making it an essential read for those aiming not just to survive but to thrive.

Do you know the secret to success when it comes to business? People! 

A Gallup report found that companies with highly engaged teams experience a 21% increase in profitability. Moreover, engaged employees are 17% more productive than their disengaged counterparts, as reported by the Workplace Research Foundation.

From the early days of survival to today's corporate setting, the importance of a cohesive and motivated group of individuals working toward a common goal cannot be overstated. As a founder, understanding that your company requires like-minded people is the first step towards ensuring its survival, thriving in the business world, and fulfilling its purpose.

The Role of the Founder

As the founder, you are not just the architect of a business; you are the cultural leader of your team. The vision you bring shapes the common goal that binds your team together. The responsibility falls on your shoulders to keep your team united under a shared culture, making you the driving force behind your company's survival.

Understanding people, including yourself, is key to navigating the evolving business landscape. Recognizing what drives, excites, and gives meaning to your team becomes crucial in a world where relationship-based jobs take precedence over task-based ones. Leaders who possess emotional intelligence (EQ) will thrive, as they can listen, show empathy, solve conflicts, be creative, and make teamwork happen.

Founders, leaders, and visionaries play a pivotal role in building and growing highly functioning teams. Sustained effort and thoughtful decision-making are essential. Moreover, creating an environment where people can develop, learn, and feel part of something bigger is incumbent upon you. Giving permission to fail and using emotional intelligence to foster connection and acknowledgment will set the stage for your company's success.

Far from being secondary to hard skills, power skills are fundamental for leadership and success. Often labeled as 'soft skills,' power skills encompass traits such as fairness, respect, reliability, serenity, patience, kindness, critical ability, listening skills, boundary setting, assertiveness, and conflict management. As a founder, cultivating these skills ensures that you serve as a role model for your team and set the standard for how things are done within your company.

Startups and businesses with a strong founding team and a compelling vision not only stand out to customers but are also more likely to attract investors. The people you surround yourself with, both within your core team and beyond, are critical to the growth of your business. A diverse group of individuals, each contributing their unique experiences and perspectives, not only enhances your product but also adds depth to your story when presenting to potential investors.

To sum it up. The power of people in developing an organizational or company’s culture cannot be underestimated. As a founder, your leadership, emotional intelligence, and commitment to building a strong team will define the success of your company. Soft skills, now known as power skills, are not just complementary; they are fundamental to your role as a leader.

Therefore, embrace the people-centric approach. Surround yourself with a diverse and talented team, provide opportunities, nurture their skills, and have open communication that will allow your team to keep a shared goal, and watch as your startup flourishes, leaving its mark on the world.