Most early stage startups do not need a CRO. They need revenue. Hiring big leadership titles before your motion is baked creates risk and stalls learning. This piece shows why CRO hires miss early and which roles to hire instead based on stage, with clear scopes, what to look for, and how to talk about the opportunity so top talent leans in.

Scope your first GTM hire with a clear framework by traction level and motion. Use this guide to decide between AE, SDR, or CSM based on stage, ACV, cycle length, and retention goals so you hire the right role at the right time.