Having worked in very different companies and startups, I’ve observed one recurring mistake: treating everyone the same and making the same rules for everyone.
There’s a simple fact: if you have to set stupid rules in your company, it means you have stupid people around who need those rules.
These stupid rules only frustrate or drive away your good team members because they have to follow these nonsensical regulations simply because they apply to the entire company.
The solution is straightforward. Apply rules to specific individuals, and if they don’t improve quickly, let them go. Or better yet, fire them immediately because they are a cancer to the entire team.
As Jim Collins emphasizes in “Good to Great,” it’s not just about getting the right people on the bus, but also about getting them in the right seats. The best companies understand that having the right people in the right roles is crucial for success. When you have a team of A-players, they don’t need excessive rules because they are self-motivated and aligned with the company’s vision. This alignment creates a culture of excellence where everyone thrives and contributes to the company’s success.
These insights stem from my extensive experience and are documented here as a reminder for companies and as a valuable reference for myself.

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