The founders are critical to a startup's success; I evaluate them based on their communication skills and depth of understanding.

When assessing a startup, I look for the founder's passion and resilience, as these traits are crucial for overcoming challenges in building a company.

When I think of someone like Peter, I know he will deliver and is dependable, which makes him pleasant to work with; likability plus credibility brings a lot of influence.

Imagine leading your startup with the qualities you admire in others; that could unlock new creativity and foster a better culture.

In a startup, it's important to prioritize cultural fit and enthusiasm for the product over just technical expertise when hiring.

In later-stage startups, I prioritize authenticity in candidates during interviews, as it’s important to work with genuine people.

I often advise startups that it's better to seek deep appeal and create something that a few people love, even if most people don't get it right away.

Establishing thought leadership and gaining notoriety is a common concern for aspiring founders, but it's essential to focus on building your product first.

When evaluating a startup application, YC looks for unique insights on user acquisition and the founder's competence. Having traction and a clear understanding of your market is crucial.