If Corporations Are Like Orchestras, Then Startups Are Like Jazz Bands.

If large corporations run like orchestras, where regimented sections work together in a clear hierarchy, then startups are more like jazz bands. In jazz bands, players often deal with a great deal of ambiguity.

The scores used often come with very broad improvisational guidelines, with players having the freedom to interpret these loose instructions based on a shared understanding of what is to be achieved.

Jazz Band Players Are Cross-Functional

Rehearsals are full of experimentation and collaboration, players (especially in the rhythm section) flow seamlessly between leadership and supportive roles, with constant communication and feedback driving the entire process.

Sometimes, it’s time for a solo. Sometimes, you’re trading fours with another member. Sometimes, you’re supporting a soloist with chords and being careful not to overshadow their moment. Sometimes, you're playing a very specific written part.

In a startup, your role title rarely reflects the incredibly diverse array of tasks you have to take ownership of in order to contribute well. Cross-functionality is normal.

You have to be prepared to lead, follow, and jump in and out of your comfort zone.

Active On-The-Ground Leadership

Very often, the band leader (founder) is the composer (creator of the IP), also plays one of the instruments in the rhythm section (an active role - CEO/CTO?). Duke Ellington played the piano. Buddy Rich played the drums. Charles Mingus played the bass.

In the first picture though, I’m just conducting, because I was not the best choice to play in the rhythm section - every player on this stage was a superstar. It’s important to know your strengths and get out of the way if necessary.

Iterative Processes

Leading the band requires understanding that the music is a work in progress: During rehearsals, you actively seek out the opinions of the experts you’ve hired, to fix problems they find as they come up, while you all push forward to one of a number of acceptable results that become apparent through an quick iterative process grounded in open-minded experimentation.

If it works, it stays. If it doesn't - change it.

Micromanagement Would Be A Disaster

Even though it is not an ideal management technique, orchestras will tolerate some level of micromanagement. It is virtually impossible in jazz.

A a band leader, you don’t necessarily need to indicate every beat and subdivision in your conducting - the band, if well-rehearsed, can often carry the music on their own. If you’ve done your job well, you can trust them to adapt to changing circumstances and the pressure of a live performance and create magic.

Conclusion

There are so many things that leaders at startups can learn from jazz ensembles - which are collections of highly individual and unique experts that collaborate within evolving systems of experimentation and improvisation to create a highly sophisticated product.

I'd love to hear what you think in the comments!