Do You Have to be a Jerk to Succeed?

Why So Many Tech Founders Who Are Jerks Become Insanely Rich And Successful, by Alyson Shontell, Business Insider  

What She Says: Those in the know just can't help but notice that many of the top execs in Silicon Valley - and elsewhere - are arrogant at best; jerks at worst. In fact, the list of top Silicon Valley entrepreneurs who are also jerks is long.

But some venture capitalists are bucking the trend and implementing a "no asshole policy." The sad thing is that they recognize that making the personal choice not to work with jerks may negatively impact their ability to invest in the companies with the biggest pay-offs.

What This Means For You: I think the trend towards jerks in leadership positions is powerfully reflected in the business media, and I do think there are some aspects of massive success that are somehow linked to being a jerk. But that doesn't mean that people who are not jerks aren't successful.

What you may need to decide is whether you are willing to sacrifice being a good person - and being around good people - in exchange for massive amounts of money.   

Not to get too heavy, but what is your soul, your "goodness" worth? 

For me personally, I have instituted a "no assholes" policy. So if you're an entrepreneur who wants to make money but not be a jerk, then I'd like to get to know you!

Virginia Ginsburg is founder and chief consultant at Swell Strategies. She is passionate about supporting small business owners and entrepreneurs in starting and running successful enterprises. An avid reader, in this blog she reviews books and articles and relates specific learning points back to entrepreneurial businesses.