Advisors can provide valuable advice, connections, and expertise to early-stage startups. The ideal advisor has relevant industry experience, is willing to engage frequently with the startup, and understands how startups operate differently than larger companies. While advisors should be compensated, typically through stock options vesting over time, they are not consultants and should be treated as respected partners rather than paid hourly for their services. Founders must actively engage their advisors and define the relationship to fully leverage their advisors' knowledge and support.