[forgot_password]

I hadn't seen Chris Dixon's post on what startups need and don't need before. I disagree with vacation policy being unnecessary for startups. I know some startups don't have one and I feel like it's done to create friction whenever employees want to take time off which feels a bit insidious. And it creates the feeling that some folks are freeloading. I don't think it's overly "corporate" to have a well-defined vacation policy

[mratzloff]

> I feel like it's done to create friction whenever employees want to take time off which feels a bit insidious. And it creates the feeling that some folks are freeloading.

It's exactly that. The idea that people are more productive if all they do is work, for 50 hours a week or more, is such an insanely stupid notion. But I hear it time and again from founders who expect employees with a 0.5% stake to put in as much time as a founder who has a 30% stake.

Even founders should keep their work hours under control--they set the tone for the company, and a workaholic tone isn't healthy. People just burn out, they feel demoralized, and it creates conflict.

Working less also forces you to make hard decisions, to prioritize and focus.

Finally, founders should be HAPPY that employees take time off. It rejuvenates them and makes them that much more excited to get back to work. And often when they're not in the heads-down grind--when their mind is relaxed--they come up with some very good ideas.

[crazygringo]

That was the one which bothered me the most too.

But I think it depends -- if you're still only a team of 7, and the 7th hire still got 3% equity (probably not realistic?), then everyone's got enough skin in the game where you probably shouldn't be taking vacations too often.

But if the 7th hire has 0.1% equity, then there should absolutely be a clear vacation policy. It's exceedingly important that clear rules are laid down for what's "fair".