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The 10 Most Expensive Series A Hiring Mistakes
Series A is when hiring mistakes become really expensive. Here are the errors we see most often and how to avoid them.
R
Roles Team
Talent Advisors · January 14, 2025
# The 10 Most Expensive Series A Hiring Mistakes
Series A is a critical inflection point. Here are the mistakes founders make most often.
Mistake 1: Hiring Too Senior Too Fast
Bringing in VPs and Directors before you have the team to manage costs $200-400K for someone doing IC work.
Mistake 2: Not Moving Fast Enough
Taking 3-4 months to fill critical roles means missed opportunities and founder burnout.
Mistake 3: Ignoring Culture Fit
Hiring skilled people who do not align with your values causes team dysfunction.
Mistake 4: Skipping Reference Checks
Not talking to former managers means hiring people with hidden performance issues.
The Bottom Line
Most hiring mistakes are predictable and preventable. Slow down enough to hire well.