This article provides data on how much equity seed-stage founders should offer their first employees. It reveals that equity decreases rapidly after the first hire and advises against over-granting, especially to advisors. It emphasizes the importance of understanding these benchmarks to attract the right talent without compromising future hiring flexibility.

Early-stage founders should be aware of both the unconventional and conventional principles surrounding compensation in startups. The article outlines key rules to consider when establishing compensation structures, highlighting the importance of flexibility and the potential pitfalls of standard practices. Founders are encouraged to focus on attracting talent while also being mindful of their company's unique context and culture.