The Urgent Need For Shameless Startups

You must understand the game you are playing before you can win.

Several years back, I was a Software Engineer laid off from a hedge fund. Thus, I began interviewing for a new job. At the time, several VC-backed startups in the area were hiring. However, they all seemed to need help understanding the game they were playing. 

It did not take long for those companies to disappear.

Fast-forward to today. As an early-stage investor, I talk with many founders. They, too, seem to not understand the game. Instead, they are trying to run their company like a small business or an enterprise. Neither of these models will work for a fast-growing startup.

Be an ass

The reason is that, like a good Poker player, you must play the game like an asshole while remaining true to your values. That is to be: 

- Unapologetically competitive

- Unreasonable in your vision

- Charismatic in your approach

It is poker

You are playing a game of skill with an element of luck. Your mission is the first two cards; your story convinces others they are part of a winning hand. As you persuade others of the value, more funds, more revenue, and better people will join you.

It is a game

The best product, technology, and people will do nothing to move your company forward if others do not believe you are the best. You are not working with other startups in your area; you are competing with them for VC dollars, revenue, and people.

A bad hand

Many great poker players have won with horrible cards. Multiple companies have won with less-than-stellar ideas and mediocre products because they convinced others they were great.

Conclusion

When we look back at successful founders, we see that they all have the ability to convince others of their greatness. Jobs, Gates, Musk, and many others compete aggressively. They understand the game and play it well. You, as a founder, must do the same. As an investor, you must find founders who understand this.