How to Identify Crucial Roles in Your Startup (And Hire Right) 

Hiring too fast and too much can kill your startup. Instead of filling positions, focus on filling crucial roles. 

Step 1: Focus on Core Startup Functions 

Early-stage startups only need 3-5 key roles: 

Visionary (CEO/Founder) – Sets direction and strategy. 

Product Builder (CTO/Head of Product) – Develops the solution. 

Sales/Marketing (CMO/Head of Growth) – Brings in customers. 

Operations (COO/Project Manager) – Ensures smooth execution. 

Finance/Admin (CFO/Accountant) – Manages money. 

Example: In a Lagos-based e-commerce startup, the first hires should be: A tech person to build the website, a marketing expert familiar with Nigerian consumer behavior, and someone to handle logistics (like last-mile delivery in Lagos).

Step 2: Hire for Skills & Mindset 

Startup hires need to be: 

• Problem-solvers 

• Comfortable with uncertainty 

• Willing to wear multiple hats 

Instead of just experience, look for adaptability. 

Step 3: Avoid Hiring Just to Fill Titles 

❌ “We need a COO because other startups have one.” 

✅ “We need someone to streamline operations because things are messy.” 

Final Thoughts 

Every hire should move the business forward. Hire for impact, not titles. 

Next Step: Avoid the biggest hiring mistake founders make. Click Here to Read Don't Just Give Managerial Positions as a Founder