Skills Needed Right Now in Start Ups

There is a new type of start-up on the scene. The next generation shall we call it. They’re fast, scrappy, unpredictable, and full of opportunity. The pace is relentless, and the challenges change daily but that’s exactly what makes them so exciting. If you’re looking to thrive in a 0-1 start-up environment, think YC, Antler, EF team then you’ll need more than just a good CV. You’ll need a skillset that’s part entrepreneurial grit, part technical muscle, and part business savvy.

You need to be motivated by far more than a nice office, flexible working and drinks on a Friday. These new founders are focused and the skills needed to obtain a job here are the same no matter if you’re applying in Berlin, London, NYC or San Fran.

The “Get Sh*t Done” Mentality

Ideas are great, but execution is everything. Start-ups need people who can roll up their sleeves, cut through the noise, and make things happen. That means being resourceful, proactive, and not waiting around for permission. If you can deliver impact without endless red tape, you’ll stand out.

Entrepreneurial Thinking

Start-ups live and die by innovation. Being entrepreneurial isn’t just about launching the next big idea, it’s about spotting opportunities, thinking creatively with limited resources, and taking smart risks. If you can balance hustle with strategic thinking, you’ll add value. If you have domain experience even the team you are applying for, even better (but not always needed)

Hard-Coded Skills

Tech is the engine room of most start-ups. Whether it’s software engineering, data analysis, product development, or growth hacking, having hard technical skills gives you a competitive edge. But it’s not just about knowing the tools; it’s about being able to adapt quickly as the stack evolves. Many of the start-ups we support are not fixed on a certain stack… think more like a software engineer willing to showcase your core skills than a framework developer.

Business Savvy

Every hire in a start-up impacts the bottom line, especially if they are pre-revenue. Understanding how your role ties into revenue, customer acquisition, or product-market fit is critical. Start-ups want people who “get” the bigger picture and can make decisions that drive the business forward. There is also an element of truly being driven by the mission… salary is lower, equity and stock is higher. When shi* hits the fan and it will, business vision will help get you through.

Agility & Resilience

Things will change. Plans will get ripped up. Priorities will pivot overnight. The ability to adapt, stay calm under pressure, and keep momentum is one of the most valuable traits in the start-up world.

Collaboration & Communication

Small teams = big collaboration. You need to be able to work cross-functionally, communicate clearly, and build strong relationships fast. The best start-up employees are not lone wolves, they’re team players who know how to bring others along for the ride. All the teams we work with at this stage are saying the same thing in terms of team structure… less is more.

Start-ups are an adrenaline rush, but they’re not for everyone. If you’ve got the grit, the skills, and the right mindset, you’ll thrive in an environment where your work has a visible, direct impact.

At Peritus Partners, we connect ambitious talent with start-ups who need them most. If you’re ready to join a team where you can shape the future, or if you’re building a start-up and need people who can hit the ground running, let’s talk.

Peritus Partners is a next generation recruitment team that focuses on blending education, business and community together. Interested to see how we can help find the best talent for your team or interested in finding a new job? Reach out today 😎