Why Most Founders Struggle to Hire A-Players

It’s not. It’s about becoming the kind of company A-players want to join.

In my first business, I rushed to fill a sales role. I didn’t understand the work, I just wanted relief. Three months later, I learned the hard way: relief without results is just delay.

Here’s what I now teach founders about building A-player systems:

1️⃣ Define Excellence Early
A-players crave clarity. If you can’t define what success looks like, they can’t aim for it.

2️⃣ Hire for Character
Skills can be learned; values can’t. Look for humility, curiosity, and ownership.

3️⃣ Create an Honest Environment
When people trust leadership, they give more of themselves. Share your numbers, your challenges, your vision.

4️⃣ Reward Growth
Top performers stay where they grow — not where they coast. Give them new challenges and room to lead.

When you do these four things, you stop chasing talent — and start attracting it.