Hire sales people who are really smart problem solvers, but lack courage, hunger and competitiveness, and your company will go out of business.

The quote "Hire salespeople who are really smart problem solvers, but lack courage, hunger, and competitiveness, and your company will go out of business" by Ben Horowitz emphasizes the essential qualities needed for success in sales and business. Horowitz suggests that while intellectual abilities, like being a problem solver, are valuable, they alone are not enough for thriving in a competitive market. Without the drive and resilience that come with courage, hunger, and competitiveness, salespeople will struggle to make an impact.

Ben Horowitz, a co-founder of Andreessen Horowitz, a venture capital firm, is well-known for his insights on entrepreneurship and business leadership. His quote points to the importance of having a growth mindset and the internal drive to pursue success despite obstacles. In the competitive world of sales, courage and hunger are necessary to take risks and push through challenges, while competitiveness is vital for staying ahead in the marketplace.

The message also highlights the danger of focusing too heavily on technical skills or intelligence, without considering the grit and passion that are required for real success. According to Horowitz, salespeople must have a deep desire to achieve goals and the courage to make bold decisions that drive results. Without these qualities, even the smartest problem solvers can fail to navigate the fast-paced, ever-changing landscape of business.

Ultimately, Horowitz’s quote serves as a warning to companies that hiring for intelligence alone is not enough. In order to succeed and grow, organizations must seek out salespeople who possess not only strong problem-solving skills but also the determination, ambition, and competitive edge that are crucial for long-term success.