Culture

In previous companies, we tried to set culture through a democratic process where we discussed what we value as a team. The spirit of that still resonates with me, but in hindsight it was a mistake.

Real culture isn't democratically elected; it's forged. We wish it were different, but it isn’t.

So here are our first statements on culture at Flight:

1. Mission First. Everything we do must be in service of the mission. Not of our egos, corporate politics, etc. The mission is to make Flight a reality.

2. There are only three ways to beat the competition. You can outpace them, outwork them, or outsmart them. If you want to win, you must do all three. Everyone at Flight wants to win. The specific requirement is that you must be extremely good at your job, and work at an impressive pace. No exceptions.

3. Great artists steal. There are no bonus points for adopting an idea because ‘it’s yours.’ The best ideas are the best ideas, no matter where they come from. And at Flight we only use the best ideas.

(note: intellectual or other property theft is not tolerated at Flight)

4. I stole this idea: “When perfection becomes obsession, magical things arise.”

5. Flight is quick, quiet, quality. and efficient. If we are successful, that should be true both of our vehicle and in the way we work to build it.

6. be like water. Find a way. Some people see a boulder in their path, and they try to move it, or break it apart. The best people are like water: they flow around obstacles. Be like water.

7. We measure progress in concrete, objective, outcomes-based steps that advance our priorities.

8. Correct math always wins the argument. The best way to ensure your math is correct is through open and honest communication with the team.

9. Never underestimate the competition. Imitating them is the surest way to lose.

10. Be good to each other. Be like Sina (Kevin) and Dave. Everyone at Flight wants to be like Kevin and Dave.