“Startup culture” isn’t a salary.

Stop hiding low wages behind:

– “Unlimited” Paid Time Off (that no one takes)
– Fancy job titles
– Promises of future equity

Top talent knows:

– Perks are nice, paychecks are necessary
– Work-life balance starts with livable wages
– Respect is shown through fair compensation

“Amazing culture” means nothing if employees are stressed about bills and they need side hustles to survive.

If you want loyalty? Pay for it.

If you want productivity? Compensate it fairly.

Start valuing your team with actual value.

Pay people what they’re worth.