Cowboys, Frontiersmen, Settlers, Townspeople, Cityfolk
4 days ago
- #risk management
- #startup stages
- #organizational development
- The principle 'What got you here won't get you there' applies to founders and their organizations, especially regarding risk and chaos.
- Personalities are linked to levels of organizational chaos: Cowboys (initial build) thrive in maximum chaos, Frontiersmen (MVP) start enforcing order, Settlers (product-market fit) balance chaos and order, Townspeople (scaling) focus on efficiency, and Cityfolk (exit/large business) operate in a mechanized, process-driven environment.
- Success in each stage requires matching the individual's comfort with chaos and order, and communication becomes difficult between distant groups (e.g., Cityfolk and Cowboys).
- Organizational failure can occur when a person outgrows their role (e.g., a Cowboy staying too long) or when the company regresses, making hires from later stages less effective.
- Executives should avoid clinging to titles if it hinders effectiveness, and roles are not durable; risk appetite can shift based on experience (e.g., moving from Cityfolk to Cowboy in a startup).