Why join a start-up?

Around three years ago, I was talking to one guy who was working with one of the brand name companies. I pitched him a startup company and asked for his career preferences. He told me that I’m looking for change but with bigger brand name like ******!!

After few minutes of discussion, he asked me a question- “Why should I join a start-up company?”

Our client was one of the best pay masters and I answered him that you will get more money what you are getting now. After some time, I realized that it was a wrong answer and finally loose that candidate.

Later, I found answer of his question. You should join start-ups for-

Good work and Learning: Start-ups provide an opportunity to really add value in life and build something from scratch. You enjoy technical challenges and problem solving. You learn more in few years in start-ups than you will in 10 years at brand name.

Opportunity to grow: In Start-up Company, your role is undefined. You get an excellent opportunity to grow. You can enter in different roles according to your interest once you start perform.

Decision Making: In start-ups, your all ideas are appreciated and you are in decision making. Your one idea can change company’s strategy/product. Even my current company, management believes in me and has given freedom to make some key decisions which can never happen in big company.

Ownership: In start-ups, you get some equity (or stock options). It gives you a sense of ownership and one more reason to work better and harder. You always get direct rewards for your good work.

Business Understanding: Start-ups believe in flat hierarchies, everybody is closer to each other. You are well connected to your CEO or top management as well as the network of customers, vendors, VCs, friends, etc. that give you an opportunity of business understanding.

Good Culture: At a startup, you find family environment and emotionally connect to each other. Everybody try to find solution, even for your personal problems also.

More Money: You get some equity (or stock options) with start-ups. Do not under estimate them. They can make you millionaire.

But, don't join a start-up if 1. You want to play safe, well defined role with minimal changes.
2. You believe in 9:00 am to 5:00 pm job.

3. You are not open to learn.

People say: “working with start-ups are risky” and Economics says “More risk, more profit.”