Have you ever watched a cooking show and felt a strange sense of familiarity? Perhaps it's the intense focus, the teamwork, or the relentless pursuit of excellence. For me, the Game of Chefs reality show has become a surprising source of inspiration, offering valuable insights into the world of startups.
When building a high-performing go-to-market team, I often find myself reflecting on the qualities I've observed in the talented chefs I've watched compete on the Game of Chefs. These contestants possess a unique blend of skills that are essential for success in the fast-paced and competitive world of startups. It was only when we got to the actual contest, it hit me: I would hire them all (well, at least most of them!).
Here's why, and a breakdown of the key attributes to look for when assembling your go-to-market team and what skills you should be looking for when building a potentially high-achieving, high-functioning go-to-market team:
- Laser-sharp focus on objectives: Just like chefs strive for culinary perfection, your team members should be driven by a clear understanding of the company's goals. You want people on your team who can keep their eye on the ball.
- Unwavering commitment: Look for individuals who are willing to go the extra mile and consistently deliver results.
2. Teamwork and Collaboration:
- Synergy and support: A successful go-to-market team is built on strong teamwork and collaboration. Look for individuals who can work effectively with others and contribute to a positive team culture.
- Shared vision: Ensure that your team members are aligned with the company's goals and values. This total dedication to the group effort, and the revenue KPIs, will drive success. When teams put egos at the door, and drop the "but marketing didn't bring MQLs" and "sales are doing a bad job selling" attitude, when everyone is on the same side of the funnel- that is where the magic happens.
3. Creativity and Innovation:
- Thinking outside the box: Encourage your team members to think creatively and come up with innovative solutions to challenges. Craking objections of potential clients, understanding what the next step should be, and embracing every inch of EQ to understand the larger picture with a prospect- will make it or break it for revenue teams.
- Adaptability: Look for individuals who can adapt to changing circumstances and embrace new ideas.
- Getting things done: Your team members should be results-oriented and have a strong work ethic.
- Can-do attitude: A positive and proactive attitude can go a long way in driving success. On the leadership side, cultivating a can-do attitude, an "ask for forgiveness and less for permission" culture, will dramatically bring people in, to carry the weight and push things forward.
5. Excellence and Standards:
- High expectations: Set high standards for your team and look for individuals who are committed to delivering exceptional results. Meeting high standards is essential for success in both realms. In a revenue-oriented organization, within a go-to-market enabler team, every individual has to thrive to get 120% of their quota/numbers. No less. look for over-achievers.
- Continuous improvement: Encourage a culture of learning and growth, where team members are always striving to improve their skills and performance.
6. Adaptability and Resilience:
- Overcoming challenges: Look for individuals who can overcome obstacles and adapt to changing circumstances. Have people on your team, who- as the legendary Randy Pausch said - believe that "brick walls are there to give us a chance to show how badly we want something".
- Resilience: The ability to bounce back from setbacks is crucial in the fast-paced world of startups.
7. Leadership and Responsibility:
- Inspiring others: Look for individuals who can inspire and motivate their team members. Surround yourself with people who are looking to inspire and be role models, whether they have the title or not.
- Taking ownership: Your team members should be accountable for their work and take responsibility for their actions. Hire for people who believe in humility, in the importance of learning from others, admitting mistakes, and maintaining a growth mindset- where every mistake makes them 100 times better.
- Growth mindset: Encourage a culture of continuous learning and development.
- Staying up-to-date: Ensure your team members are staying informed about industry trends and best practices.
By focusing on these key attributes, you can build a go-to-market team that is poised for success. Remember, a strong team is essential for achieving your company's goals and driving growth. I believe in hiring for skills and less for experience. While experience matters, it can change- we all develop and evolve. An attitude is very difficult to change and the price of a less-adequate hire can often become anything from a sad mistake to a strategic one.
A go-to-market team needs to be a strong one. Your team is your secret weapon to and your key to success. Make it a powerhouse- and you will reap the fruits.
I Help Tech companies transform their vision into paying products. Proven success with $100M+ Industry Leaders, Align your product with customers and investors in 90 days
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Co Founder at G2Mteam, Full-service marketing agency, CMO on demand, B2B Tech Marketing, Startup Marketing
1 个月Loved your angle Pe'era Feldman ???, very inspiring!
Founding Partner at Serendipity Impact VC - investing in startups transforming Neuro & Mental Health
2 个月Pe'era Feldman ??? I love your insights!
B2B(2C) Marketing Manager ? Translating Healthcare Needs into Marketing Solutions ? Managing Successful Long-Term Relationships with both Distributors & Customers
2 个月I love cooking contests and I loved the article! You named all the qualities a company needs to look after. It's not easy, but it definitely needs to be their north start.
Deep Tech Marketing & Brand Strategist | Senior Director of Product Marketing | Driving Go-to-Market for B2B Tech Startups | Growth & Content Strategy | Storytelling & Messaging
2 个月Nice! I like the analogy. Solid foundation is crucial for tesm building, regardless of the industry ??