Does the world class engineer or business development lead just take it easy and travel around after they join?

Does the new manager push the team and business forward or prioritize stability?

Do engineers spend their time on reactors and impressive sounding projects or figuring out what customers need?

Do people feel lucky to have a seat in the org or do they spend their time complaining and looking for the exits?

Money isn't the only lever, but its a strong one - startups will never compete with established firms on cash outlays.