Let’s cut through the BS out there

Hey {{member.first_name}},

Let’s talk about two things no one really prepares you for as an immigrant founder in the UK: hiring and navigating business culture.

It’s not just about having a great product or being good with numbers. It’s about understanding how this country actually works when it comes to building and growing a company.

Let’s start with hiring.

Hiring in the UK can feel like a minefield.

Salaries are high. Equity doesn’t always cut it. And before you even bring someone on board, you’re hit with legal hoops, payroll, and compliance rules no one warns you about.

I’ve seen founders drain their runway too fast, overpay for the wrong talent, or get locked into messy contracts. Here’s how to avoid it:

1️⃣ Equity vs Salary: What Actually Works?

• Early-stage: Give real equity (5–10% for key hires).
• First 5–10 hires: Combine below-market salaries with performance bonuses and vesting.
• Full-time or contractor? UK labour laws are strict. Freelancers offer flexibility, but you need to know the legal boundaries.

2️⃣ Where to Find Talent Without Breaking the Bank

• AngelList & Otta: Startup-minded hires.
• WorkInStartups & Tech.London: Great for hustlers who want to build.
• University programmes: Many grads will trade high salaries for high-growth exposure.

3️⃣ Compliance Is Not Optional

• Register for PAYE, pensions, tax early. HMRC does not play.
• Employment contracts must follow UK law (don’t use a US template).
• Hiring from abroad? You’ll need a sponsorship licence it’s doable, just a pain.

Now let’s talk about business culture.

The UK has its own rules, most of them unspoken. If you’re not clued in, you’ll waste time on conversations that go nowhere.

Here’s what I wish someone had told me:

1️⃣ Networking is a Long Game

• Warm intros > cold outreach, always.
• Deals are made at private clubs, pub tables, and weekend lunches — not just boardrooms.
• Trust takes time. UK investors and partners rarely move fast.

2️⃣ Decoding British Politeness

• “That’s interesting” = They disagree.
• “We’ll think about it” = Probably not.
• “Let’s follow up soon” = You won’t hear from them again.
• If it’s not a yes, it’s a no. Move on.

3️⃣ What UK Investors Actually Want

• Solid financial models over flashy ideas.
• Sustainability over hyper-growth.
• Credibility over charisma.

4️⃣ Work Culture Matters

• Don’t send late-night emails. It’s not impressive here.
• August is dead. Fridays are slow. Respect the rhythm.
• Know who’s who titles carry weight.

5️⃣ How to Build Credibility Fast

• Get featured in Sifted, Business Insider, or TechCrunch.
• Join networks like Tech Nation, Founders Forum, London & Partners.
• A weak introduction is better than no introduction.

Final Thought

You don’t need to throw money at every problem, or wait until you’ve “made it” to build your network.

What you do need is to understand how this ecosystem works and surround yourself with people who’ve already been through it.

That’s why I’m building a private founder network just for immigrants like us.

No fluff. Just the real stuff funding, hiring, visas, growth, culture with people who get it.

Let’s make this journey easier and smarter, together.

Cheers,
Asim