So you want to join a startup…
If you’re looking for an exciting new opportunity, and want to work for people who truly value your skills, working for a startup could be the perfect career move for you.
Not sure where to start? Here’s everything you need to know about working for a startup:
What is a startup?
Startups are usually newly formed businesses or young companies that have just begun to develop.
As such, they may not initially have a fully-functioning product, and are generally working to develop their offering into an operational and scalable business model.
Startups can be found within any sector, but the majority are found within the tech industry.
Are startups just small businesses?
No.
Although there is some conjecture over exactly what attributes are necessary to qualify a business as a startup, the primary difference lies in its ambitions.
Most smaller, independent businesses enter an existing market, potentially offering a product or service which is already somewhat available, in order to make profit.
In contrast, a startup looks to disrupt the market with an innovative or impactful business model, aiming to grow at a fast-rate and, ultimately, dominate or own their space.
What’s working for a startup like?
It might not come as a surprise that working in a startup can be very different from working in a regular office environment.
The hours can be long and the work is often fast-paced, especially if working within a smaller team who take on multiple roles. It takes a tremendous amount of hard work and discipline to get the business off the ground, but there is also usually a much greater sense of achievement if you’re working on something you’re passionate about.
What roles do they look for?
No technical skills? No problem.
Contrary to what you may see in the media, getting in on the groundfloor of the next big startup takes more than the ability to write great code and a couple of really sharp-looking hoodies.
Although development and design roles are fairly common, most businesses require a number of other positions, such as sales, marketing, business development, customer service and finance, in order to get started.
How much does it pay?
Ok, so not every startup is fortunate enough to be the next Facebook.
The reality is that even if the startup you join turns out to be really successful, it will probably take some time until you can reap the financial benefits.
However, it will often depend on what stage you join the business. If you find a startup that has secured funding or is already generating revenue, they might be able to pay you a salary similar to what a corporate employer would pay. If you join an early stage startup it’s quite common for these new businesses to pay their team in equity instead of or alongside a regular wage.
Why join a startup?
If you’re looking to pursue something you’re passionate about, joining a startup could be the perfect outlet.
Often you are afforded more responsibility and ownership over your area, giving you greater creative freedom as the company finds its footing. Other benefits include variety, learning new skills, working in an environment that encourages new ideas and innovation, and a close-knit company culture.
How do I find a startup to join?
Many cities have active startup communities, with plenty of events where entrepreneurs meet up to network and discuss the challenges they’re facing. Attending one of those events can be an excellent first step to find out if you like the atmosphere and the people within the industry.
Alternatively, there are a number of digital platforms which could help you make the right connections. For example, Startup Startup is a free online platform connecting people interested in joining a startup with startups looking to build or grow their teams.
What if it doesn’t work out?
If you take the plunge but then realise the startup life isn’t for you after all, or if the company you’ve joined is unsuccessful, you can still come out with some positives.
Being part of a startup takes a lot of spirit and commitment and it’s almost guaranteed to leave you with more experience and a broader skill set. What’s more, you could end up making some great connections in a range of different industries, which could help you find the role for you further down the line.
And if it does work out? It might just end up being the best thing you ever did.
Interested putting your skills to the test or starting your own startup? Visit Startup Startup to find out more.
