a16z Podcast a16z Podcast: Protecting Your Company from Itself: Why You Need HR
Jul 8, 2014
In this engaging discussion, Shannon Schiltz, Head of Technical Talent at Andreessen Horowitz, shares her HR expertise tailored for startups. She highlights the critical moment to integrate HR into a company’s growth and the essential qualities to look for in an HR professional. Shannon and Ben Horowitz dive into the complexities of maintaining company culture while establishing necessary processes. They also address the often-dreaded topic of firings and provide strategies for inclusive practices that support a diverse workforce.
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Bring HR In Early
- Hire HR earlier than you think; recruiters are not a substitute for HR.
- Bring a dedicated HR person to partner with founders and handle people processes before problems escalate.
HR As Founder’s Extension
- HR should be an extension of the founder and the company's vision.
- It translates CEO intent into people practices and reports themes back to leadership.
Protect The Company With HR Processes
- Hire HR who protects the company through quality assurance, not rule-policing.
- Implement compliance and processes early to reduce legal and operational risk as you grow.