When shall I hire my first employee for my startup? And for what role?
Got a day job but on the side have been building a tool that helps agencies show progress to clients. I found many (especially marketing) agencies struggle with difficult clients who make ridiculous demands and lose count of revisions. I've shown the MVP/demo to 10 agencies so far and 3 of them said yes already, a few of them will get back to me soon.
The thing is I need to build some key features that will take a lot of my time. Then I need to do sales or work closely with customers to work with the ongoing feedback. Given these agencies will already start paying me, I don't think I should give away any portion of my startup to a cofounder so I was thinking of hiring help.
What approach do you guys usually take when it comes to hiring your first employee? And for what startup role should one definitely hire? I know it changes case by case but are there some fundamental things I should consider?
A note I jotted for myself: By the time you post your very first job ad, make sure you really need the help, but also have the wisdom, resources and experience to hire that person. Wear all the hats, and learn how they fit. Understand each role. That’s a major advantage when it’s time to pass the baton.