Since cash is the life blood of a business
Might be frustrating but it's true. I saw this first hand during my time on Wall Street and this has continued to be the case through a decade of venture.
Whether it's founders, LPs, customers, our families, or our community- it could be all of them! This is something I harp on to my kids because it's been such a difference maker for me.
It's less about coachability and more about "bendability"- are they open to test their thinking and approach when presented with data, anecdotes, and the perspectives of others? Ultimately, strong leaders have vision and are steadfast in their decision making but seek the input of others. Part of this is being a good listener, making others feel heard, and having a self awareness of where one's own understanding is limited. This may not mean that a founder takes and does everything suggested at face value, but can incorporate them in their decision making and in the event they disregard something, can share why.
Prior
Coachability is an important founder quality. A founder who will take to coaching has a higher likelihood of success because they will take instruction.
For many years, I've asked every successful person I encounter, "How much did luck play into your success?" I've found that the folks who can quickly build trust and rapport with me don't shy away from attributing luck to portion of their success.
And there is big $$ in playing into this through what we generously describe as "convenience."
A controversial view but equally shouldn't be an excuse to act unkind.
"I fear not the man who has practiced 10,000 kicks once, but I fear the man who has practiced one kick 10,000 times." -Bruce Lee
A lesson my Mom used to repeat growing up. It was annoying and frustrating at times but has turned out to be a ground force for me- especially when times get tough.
Not to mention that people want to around positive energy!