By Evan Vitale
Working for a startup business can be exciting and risky at the same time.
For some, knowing that you’re helping a business work from the ground up is an adventure and it’s a thrill if the startup becomes a huge success (and it makes for a nice addition to your personal resume)!
However, working for a startup can be considered one of the most riskiest career moves that you will ever make. Your starting salary may be low and there may also be a lack of any benefit package. Plus, you never know when you’ll be handed a pink slip due to a cash shortage.
Here are some questions you should ask yourself before you accept a job offer from a startup:
- Will working for a startup be of benefit to you? Remember, you might have to consider being a part of the startup for the experience and the potential “glory” of business growth. You’ll learn a lot, especially if you’re just starting a career. But, at the same time, you may not be paid your full value.
- Will you be of benefit to the company? You must feel valued and there must also be some potential career advancement opportunities with a startup as well. As many employees have learned over the years, sometimes being valued by your employer goes a long way.
- How is the startup financially secured? There’s nothing wrong in asking if the startup is backed by a venture capital company. If you don’t feel comfortable in asking, you can do some of your own research and learn more about the startup. Typically, a VC will publish a press release highlighting funding for startups. You need to feel secure that the startup is going to shutter its doors tomorrow if you decide to come to work for them today.
As you can see, working for a startup has it’s positives and negatives. Do your research, talk to your family and friends and make the right decision based on your goals and financial needs.
