Common Sales Mistakes Early-Stage Founders Make

Entering the world of sales as an early-stage founder can feel overwhelming. Your startup’s success heavily depends on your ability to sell. Yet, many founders stumble upon common pitfalls that could easily be avoided with a bit of foresight and strategy.

Let’s explore some of these mistakes and how to steer clear of them.

Mistake 1: Not Hiring a Hunter

The Problem

Early-stage startups often make the mistake of not hiring someone who is truly hungry for sales. Instead, they might hire individuals who lack the drive and energy required to chase leads aggressively.

The Solution

Hire a Hunter: Look for salespeople who thrive on the thrill of closing deals. They should be energetic, proactive, and relentless in their pursuit of new business.

Mistake 2: Hiring a Bunch of VPs Too Early

The Problem

In the eagerness to scale, some founders bring on multiple Vice Presidents (VPs) before the company is ready.

This leads to high salaries without immediate returns and complicates the organizational structure.

The Solution

Challenge the Rule Book: Instead of following traditional hiring norms, be creative in your approach. Consider hiring experienced advisors or part-time executives who…