There are a lot of people out there that have great stories to tell, look very good on paper, and may even have a few references (friends) who will say great things about them, but when you dig not too far below the surface, you may find out that they are completely useless. I know this one sounds overly negative, but I have experienced it too many times to not want to point it out to you. It has never ceased to amaze me how someone can have a stellar resume and appear to have many outstanding accomplishments, then be unable to perform relatively basic functions in a business. I don’t have to point out to you that we are dealing with the highly idiosyncratic human race, so it’s no surprise that there are surprises. The key point is that great achievement in one company, in one area, or even in one era doesn’t necessarily translate to the task at hand today. The main lesson to take away is that until you’ve known someone a long time (like several years) and had the opportunity to see them operate in situations similar to those you are asking them to manage, do not entrust them with too much of your empire – you may be dealing with a poser that could cause you and your business serious harm..
