Carnival of the Capitalists is now up over at the blog of author and angel capitalist, Barry Moltz.
Be sure to check out the entry submitted by Trizoko Biz Journal, entitled “Why You Shouldn’t Hire Superstars.” Based on experience I happen to agree with the premise of the article. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t hire good people — of course you should. But the superstar is a special breed. My biggest objection with hiring superstars is that their expectations and yours as the employer are almost never aligned. So the relationship tends to be short-lived and disappointing. Read the article to see why.
The Carnival of the Capitalists is a weekly online roundup of business writings from various blogs. Visit the Carnival of the Capitalists home page for more information.
Hi Anita:
I couldn’t disagree more…As you pointed out aligning expectations at the outset is critical, but assuming this is done why would you want anything other than a superstar? I have always sought the best talent available and would not be doing my job if I hired anything less than teir-one talent. I will say that there is a distinct difference between a primadonna and a superstar…The primadonna has all the attitude and no talent while the superstar possess both the talent and the willingness to work within the system…
Thanks Anita…
Hi Mike, thanks for your comment. Yes, I think we may be closer in opinion than it seems — partly it may be a case of semantics.
I equate most superstars with being prima donnas. Mostly interested in themselves … rarely emotionally invested in the company’s interests … overinflating their own importance … ready to trample on others in the organization in their zeal to get ahead.
Who needs people like that?
Now, if they are talented and contribute their talents and are team players … if they inspire others in the organization to rise higher through their own performance … then that’s a different story.
Best,
Anita