Stripe's Operating Principles: Why They Matter

Stripe’s rapid growth isn’t just about great products. Behind the scenes, the company is powered by a strong internal framework.

Stripe's operating principles guide how Stripes think, communicates, and makes decisions every day.

In this guide, we’ll break down Stripe’s principles, explain why they matter, and demonstrate how they’re applied in hiring, communication, and culture.

Stripe’s Operating Principles

Initially drafted by the founders, Stripe’s principles have evolved but stayed consistent.

You can find the latest version on Stripe’s careers page.

How We Work

• Users First: Start with the user and work backwards.
• Move with Urgency and Focus: Prioritize speed on what matters.
• Be Meticulous in Your Craft: Hold a high bar for quality.
• Seek Feedback: Invite input and challenge assumptions.
• Deliver Outstanding Results: Own outcomes end-to-end.

Who We Are

• Curious: Ask questions and dig deep.
• Resilient: Learn from failure and keep going.
• Humble: No task is beneath anyone.
• Macro-Optimistic: Believe the future can be better.
• Exothermic: Energize others.

Leaders at Stripe

• Obsess Over Talent: Hire, develop, and retain great people.
• Elevate Ambitions: Raise the bar.
• Set the Pace and Energy: Lead by example.
• Make Decisions and Be Accountable: Own your calls.
• Lead with Clarity and Context: Share the “why.”
• Solve Problems: Roll up your sleeves.

How These Principles Show Up

In Onboarding

New hires are introduced to Stripe’s principles immediately.

They’re embedded in Stripe’s interview process, onboarding docs, and even support shadowing sessions.

In Communication

The phrase “Be politely relentless” is a classic Stripe-ism.

Stripes are encouraged to persist on the right problems, but with kindness and respect.

Long-form writing is also preferred over meetings. Clarity through writing reinforces rigor.

In Hiring

Interviewers look for alignment with these principles.

For example, a PM candidate might be asked how they would improve Stripe Payments, testing whether they naturally prioritize users.

An engineer might be asked how they handled conflict, to assess humility and ownership.

In Feedback and Reviews

Principles are used in peer feedback, retrospectives, and promotions. An engineer who consistently "seeks feedback" and "delivers results" will be recognized for both output and alignment.

Stripe Interview Prep

Want to work at Stripe or bring this level of operational clarity to your own team?

Start with Exponent’s Stripe interview prep resources or explore our complete course catalog:

• Software Engineering
• Product Management
• Data Science
• System Design
• Machine Learning
• Behavioral Interviews