Brian Nichols’ Post

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Founder of Angel Squad | I teach professionals how to invest in startups with help from seasoned VC investors | Investor & Advisor

I’ve seen startups spend millions of dollars a year on “luxury” employee benefits. Gourmet catered meals, massage stipends, vacations, housing allowances… I’m all for benefits that create a culture that’s high-performing and treats people well. But for semi-well-capitalized growth-stage startups that think the funding will just keep on flowing, I’d pull back on many of these discretionary expenses. At this point, the hiring market is so tough, that employees have lowered their expectations. In fact, think most employees would be concerned if their company had too many luxury benefits.

Danny Nathan

Founder | Entrepreneur | Designer | Product Strategist | Advisor | Speaker | Apollo 21 helps companies scale through venture-driven growth and innovation.

1mo

I can't fathom any founder thinking that outsized "luxury" benefits are a good expenditure. Sure, treat your team well — but that doesn't have to include massages and daily meals. Most teams will benefit more from respect, trust, accountability, and flexibility than they will from fridges full of beer, etc. If you're intent on providing more — take the cost of the luxuries and bake them into higher pay and better bonuses. Let employees spend that money on massages and vacations *if they want to* but don't cram it down their throats and then claim it's a benefit.

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Danny Groner

Fixing what ails consumer businesses

1mo

Well put. Recently, a startup was featured in a story for its immense office amenities, and I remember thinking how what I would have shown off in 2014 I wouldn't race to place into coverage in 2024. The feature became a bug for many, as people really want to reduce how much time they spend at the office and to maximize the time they spend growing the business during their limited time in the City.

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Tim Airey

Executive innovation leader in frontier digital technology | VC Due Diligence advisor | Emerging Founder - CEO COO | Mentor | Angel Investor

1mo

Thanks Brian. Are we seeing a seachange from entitled expectations to employees wanting their leadership to be financially prudent to underpin the success of the venture. Perks should come from success. What options are important? remote working, healthcare, skill building?

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Markus Pesonen

Founder and CEO at Olo | Immersive sound journeys that enhance your mental wellness

1mo

A strong company culture that values its employees and provides opportunities for growth is essential! Teams benefit more from respect, trust, accountability, and flexibility than anything else. Prioritize what truly matters, Brian!

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Corey Engel 🧢

👉 CTO building software/companies | family office/private equity backed | Angel | powered by Family & relentless gratitude | (Amazing wife and 5 kids)

1mo

Ahh yes the zirp years

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Benson M.

Founder of YUUJI SHOPPING, Online Marketplace for Footwear | Founder Institute Alumni

1mo

Some founders live a delusionary life Brian Nichols

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