Are you down with Startup fever?
Let’s face it, it’s 2016 and everyone wants to work for a startup — the perks, the unlimited vacation days, free meals. You have the “Startup Fever”.
If you want to work for a startup or even start something on your own, be prepared for the worst because it won’t be easy. Life at a startup is like a roller coaster ride. It has its ups and downs but it’s your choice to either scream or enjoy the ride. Yes, I may have stated the obvious but no one realizes it till they’re working for one or running one.
So, if you want to join a startup just for the perks, please don’t. Here are some of the top factors that I’d consider before joining a startup.
Ask yourself what problem are they solving?
Question the founder(s)/team members? Ask them what problem(s) are they trying to solve. Make sure you understand them. Is there a solution they will be providing, and is the market big enough for this business?
Startup Failures
We hear a lot about the success stories, but for every one success story, there are a hundred failures. So, it is very important to do your research, assess the risks and believe in the idea before you take the plunge.
Founders
Talk to the founders.
I believe if the opportunity is given or you should insist — on speaking with the founder(s). Be prepared to ask them questions, it is very important you understand their vision, goal and future plans — this will help with your decision in different ways, financially and professionally.
Funding?
Have they received funding? Who’s funding them?
Read about the investors and have they funded other startups. Also, do your research to see how successful their portfolio companies are.
Key — ask questions and do your own research
Learn and be responsible
You’ll have more responsibility.
Don’t expect to focus just on the role you were hired for. At times, you will need to wear multiple hats. This will force you to adopt new skills and responsibilities, as well as challenge yourself. This is an opportunity you’ll learn the most from, so take advantage of it.
Long hours
9–5?
Don’t expect the usual 9 to 5 job. Expect to work late and maybe even weekends. Since, more startups are typically a fast-paced work environment where you are encouraged to work as much as possible. That’s what the perks are for after all.
My Personal Experience
I was given the opportunity to work for a Startup for a few years. It had it’s crazy moments, but I learnt the most while I was there and loved every moment of it. Initially we were a team of two and then before we know it, you have a team of 60 plus.
You’ll look back and ask yourself how did we get here, and I remember wondering back then how will we ever get there. Achieving those sales target, improving customer satisfaction were not easy. You’re bound to be faced with obstacles along the way. The exciting and rewarding part is finding solutions and achieving results. This is what made me wake up every morning and go to work to face those challenges.
I was constantly learning — it felt amazing. Being creative, thinking out of the box, and working as a team (or as a family), together we achieved things. Don’t expect everything to be perfect, it is not. But make the best use of the time you have — learn & experience as much as you possibly can.
