1. Going towards a common goal
A common goal among all partners is inevitable for the success of not only startups but for any organization. Each person is unique and will have unique ideas, ways of thinking etc., which can drag the individual to a different direction. In other words, away from the direction of the team. The common goal will pull back everyone on track and motivate towards taking productive steps
2. I know you! you know me!
Knowing one another among the core partners is essential to move on. Knowing is not at the shallow level. But in detail. Each one should know the strengths and weaknesses, preferences and rejections, go’s and no go’s, likes and dislikes, where the other person will mostly win and where the other will probably skip etc., The more each one know each one, the more the probability of the cohesiveness and understanding in the team and the more possibility of success of the company as a whole.
3. If my partner has done it, then it must be right!
I am talking about TRUST here. I know what you are saying. This must be the first heading. This is the most important component for a successful team. Patrick Lencioni, puts this key principle as the base for the success of any team. Trust and be Trustworthy.
4. I will always be in your shoes
This is one of the key principles in any relationship. And of course in a team as well. In one word, it is called Empathy. Thinking, seeing and talking from the other persons perspective, avoids, if not all but most of the understanding issues. Hours of speech can be given on this one topic itself. In fact, this over takes all the qualities and becomes the front-runner for a great team.
5. You are my mirror
Productive criticism on a one on one basis at frequent intervals is a necessary productivity improvement exercise. No one is perfect. Each have shortcomings. Not knowing the issue with oneself is the biggest issue not only for him but also for the company. Tactfully, cheerfully, motivationally, smile fully letting the other person know where he/she needs to improve is vital. This may lead to unexpected response if done publicly and hence one-on-one feedback mechanism among the partners should be part of the operational engine of any company….especially startup.
There are definitely many important ingredients that must be considered for a startup to be successful from the technical and operational level. HJowever, I believe these are among the top key principles.
Please let me know what you think.
Habeeb
eDataCode Solutions
