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When Brian Chesky started building Airbnb’s team, he quickly learned that hiring great people isn't about filling seats—it's about creating a magnetic culture of excellence. For Chesky, it took five months to hire Airbnb’s first engineer, not because talent was scarce, but because they were seeking the best. He believes that surrounding oneself with world-class individuals isn’t just about pride but about setting a high standard that attracts other exceptional talents.
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Setting a Standard of Excellence
Early in his career, Chesky was inspired by Apple’s design team, known for its exclusivity and prestige. He aspired to build a similar environment at Airbnb—a team so exceptional that working there was a badge of honor. This mindset, he says, was about aiming high, even if they didn’t get there right away. Creating an aspirational team culture takes time, and Chesky’s determination to set a world-class standard shaped Airbnb’s long-term approach to talent acquisition.
Slow and Steady Hiring: Quality Over Quantity
Chesky emphasizes the value of a thoughtful hiring process. Each hire was deliberate: five months for the first engineer, four for the second, three for the third, until they reached a point where they were hiring top engineers nearly every week. This deliberate approach also extends to executive roles, where the first few hires set the tone for the rest of the company. He believes that every hire has a ripple effect on the company’s reputation and future recruitment efforts.
The Mutual Interview: Setting the Right Impression
Chesky also believes that interviews are a two-way street. Candidates don’t just evaluate job responsibilities—they judge a company by the people interviewing them. This mutual respect and rigorous standard help Airbnb create a sense of trust and excellence from day one. In interviews, Chesky always asks himself, “If I could hire anyone in the world for this role, would I hire this person?” This guiding question ensures that each new hire brings a level of excellence that aligns with Airbnb’s mission.
Learning from the Best
To evaluate candidates effectively, Chesky consults with other industry leaders like Netflix’s Reid Hoffman, asking them who they think is the best in the world at a particular skill. Even if that person isn’t looking for work, Chesky uses this benchmark to measure the talent he meets, ensuring that Airbnb’s team remains a league above the rest.
The Takeaway: The Power of Aiming High
Building a team isn’t just about filling roles; it’s about cultivating an ecosystem of talent that reflects the company’s mission and values. Chesky’s journey at Airbnb demonstrates the power of intentional hiring and setting a high bar. By focusing on finding the best, rather than just the good, Chesky’s approach creates a magnetic company culture—one that attracts, inspires, and retains world-class talent. Whether you're hiring your first employee or building an entire organization, his insights remind us that the best teams are built on purpose, patience, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
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