Some startups go bust, others go BOOM!

Striking differences these days between the “haves” and the “have nots” as some VCs, CEOs and management teams throw in the towel, while others do the hard work necessary to see a company through a down market. In the past few days, major startups like Kraft startup matchMINE, and ex-ATG alum startup Allurent, have either ceased operations, or had significant layoffs.

At the other end of the spectrum, are daily conversations I am having with CEOs, VPs, and CTOs of both large and smaller firms — that range from mildly concerned to overly confident in their business model, (and continued recruiting). There’s no doubt this market is now shifting to a balanced market — an equal demand of jobs to candidates — however, because it’s happened to decline so far, so fast, the perception of most companies (and perception BECOMES reality for most) is that good candidates are in ready supply. The truth? Somewhere in the middle — great talent is still hard to find, but it *has* become just a bit easier to locate. Great companies? All in the eye of the beholder. There are risky big companies, and “stable” startups — it’s all about doing your due diligence. Market turbulence is an opportunity for great recruiters and great companies.