Hiring your first CTO is terrifying if you're not technical. How do you evaluate someone's skills when you don't share their expertise? Here's our battle-tested guide.
What to Look For
Technical skills matter, but they're not everything. The best startup CTOs combine technical depth with communication skills, strategic thinking, and the ability to build a team.
Red Flags
- They can't explain technical concepts in plain language
- They want to build everything from scratch
- They have no experience managing or mentoring other engineers
- They're more excited about technology than your product
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The Evaluation Process
We recommend a three-stage evaluation: a technical interview (outsource this to a trusted advisor), a product strategy discussion, and a paid trial project.
Conclusion
Your CTO will shape your company's technical DNA. Take your time, get outside help with evaluation, and prioritize communication and strategic thinking alongside technical skills.
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