Recruiting smart people

s-anand.net

12 pointsananthrk3 comments

> Most smart people would probably help you. For free.

This is the part that I always disagree with. I think smart people's generosity is taken advantage of. If somebody helps you for free, there are free ways you can repay that help. A recommendation, merchandise, discounts, whatever.

If that's the case, then why not do this for smart people you know before they can help you with anything? I think if you prepay good-will, it pays off in spades.

I agree. It's like people expect smart people to do all the work because it's easy for them or something. Easier than being lazy. A lot of being "smart" isn't about being smart, but about being willing to do the work.

It takes a while to get good at saying no. People don't like when you say no, but it'll be much better for everyone.

I counted 5 offers in 1 year to work for free for an unspecified share in the venture. What they were asking was, I donate billable hours (cash) and they risk nothing. Smart people are often smart enough to see that con a mile away.

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