1. Do hire for adaptability. Don’t hire solely for past wins.
Look for individuals who are eager to learn and grow. eCommerce changes fast – platforms, trends, even customer behaviour. The best team members are curious and open-minded, not fixed on the way things have always been.
2. Do start lean and plan to grow. Don’t overhire early.
It’s tempting to build a large team quickly when things are going well. But lean teams often move faster and learn more. Build around core functions like acquisition, conversion and retention, and scale as needed.
3. Do prioritise alignment. Don’t hire people who treat it as simply a job.
People who understand your product, your values, and your mission will go the extra mile. Enthusiasm, energy, and a belief in what you’re building can’t be taught, but they often make all the difference.
4. Do expect to recalibrate. Don’t assume the first version of your team is the final one.
As your business evolves, so will your team's needs. Turnover isn’t always a red flag; it can be a natural part of growth. Keep your structure flexible enough to adapt to changing priorities.
| 💡 Bonus:
Hiring pitfalls to watch out for!
|
| Mistake |
Why it hurts |
| Hiring too fast |
Can lead to unnecessary roles, unclear responsibilities, and team bloat |
| Prioritising past titles |
Impressive job titles don’t always mean the right mindset or adaptability |
| Ignoring cultural fit |
Misalignment with company values or style can erode team cohesion |
| Over-emphasising on technical skills |
May overlook communication, initiative, or flexibility |
| Failing to reevaluate roles |
Keeps outdated roles in place, slowing down your ability to stay competitive |
