So you got an amazing job offer. At a start-up. No biggie. After all, a start-up is just a company that is just beginning to grow, right? Here are a few things to consider before transitioning to that start-up.
Job Security
Firstly, what is the job security like? Start-ups are noted for randomly closing. However this isn’t always the case. Of course if you’re leaving a stable job or if you’re a new graduate you want that assurance that your job is safe. Do your research on the company and the industry beforehand to get an idea of how secure your job is.
Are Your Values Aligned?
As someone who had grown distant from my former company because of misaligned values, this one was a biggie for me. Start-ups are full of chaos. This is made up for when you and the company have the same or similiar values. This also helps get you through the 3AM work (see below).
Little to No Structure
Start-ups lack the formal processes that an established company has. You might hate or love this depending on the type of person you are. Of course you can be the person to bring in the structure and processes but that depends on how willing everyone else around you is to change.
Weird Work Hours
Start-ups can sometimes be go-go-go ALL THE TIME. This is my favourite part because I tend to be widely awake in the middle of the night so I’m fine to work then but this does take its toll on you if you have a family.
Anything Under the Sun is Possible
Whereas a corporate role would have red tape or you’re limited in your specific department, in a start-up you could do anything and most likely will be doing more than a few things. In my role as a Content Writer in a start-up, I wrote content, edited content, wrote copy and even weighed in on a few internal branding and Customer Care scenarios because of my corporate background.
Would you ever consider working for a start-up? Have you ever worked for a start-up? What are your thoughts? Let me know below.