Team Loyalty
As a business owner, one of the things I value most is loyalty. Not loyalty in the sense that my team members need to be submissive or obedient to a boss. In fact, I like when my employees have gumption enough to question things. The ones that become leaders are leaders because they naturally have their own good ideas and express those well.
Rather, I value loyalty in the sense of willing to put their hearts into our business, products, and customers. Willing to view their position on our team as long-term and committed, not subject to the flashy allure of other passerby opportunities.
Of course, I need to do my part to make sure the culture, opportunities, and compensation are all wonderful for my team.
But flashy allure does come by from time-to-time. For example, one of our people was offered a $300k salary by another company. He turned it down. That company went out of business shortly thereafter. They had been willing to pay that absurd amount because they were in dire straights and desperate.
I think expected longevity of team members creates a strong bind. When people view themselves as sticking around for the long haul, it is powerful.
My EO forum for instance is comprised of 7 entrepreneurs who are all awesome and all have the long view on their participation in our forum. That mutual expected longevity makes our group very close.
Loyalty is a tricky thing to discuss because it has the negative connotation of being bound down. But seen correctly, I think loyalty can be a natural fit for team members and create an atmosphere of greater autonomy and trust.
What are your thoughts on loyalty in your startup?