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This generalization seems to ignore teams who work together over time - say a year or three - and while bootstrapping. Have you never seen a data point in that
by robg 16y ago
This generalization seems to ignore teams who work together over time - say a year or three - and while bootstrapping. Have you never seen a data point in that direction?
Teams thrown together for the sole purpose of YC seem likely to have poor records. But YC is a very, very special case. Bootstrapping takes time and effort that either deepens relationships or destroys them. I don't see a middle ground there, actually.
Have you ever looked at how long a team has known each other as a predictor of success/failure? It seems your philosophy assumes more is better. Is there any data to support that belief? What's the record for spouses?
- ryannielsen 16y agoA founding team who's already been working together for years or survived the bootstrapping experience match, or at least approximate, the criteria pg's looking for – a cohesive team that can handle stress well. My take is that the advice he gives is suited for people looking to start a brand new company during yc, not those who have already started and are applying to yc. More importantly, I don't think pg's saying that length of relationship is a deciding factor. Rather, he's highlighting that you need to know you work well with your cofounders and the relationship – new or old – won't fall apart under stress and trial.