Why You Should Think Twice Before Joining a Startup
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Chapter 1: The Reality of Startups
If you're weighing the choice between a startup and a large corporation, take a moment to consider this information. It could save you from potential pitfalls.
Having experience in both startups and large companies, I can confidently say that I would choose a large corporation without hesitation. Here’s why.
Working Hard for Little Reward
The culture at startups often demands significant effort, but the financial compensation tends to be quite low. This means you might find yourself exerting great energy while seeing minimal financial return. It can feel like you're just spinning your wheels without progress—don't fall into this trap.
Section 1.1: Job Security Concerns
I recall my first experience at a startup where half the employees were laid off. I managed to keep my position, but it was a stark reminder that while colleagues may seem friendly, true loyalty is scarce. The focus is primarily on profit, not friendship. It’s a harsh reality—there's no room for sentimentality when it comes to business decisions.
Subsection 1.1.1: The Illusion of Equity
Most startups face failure, which means that the equity you might earn—say, $100K—could end up being worthless. The tales of successful startups often create a misleading narrative, overshadowing the countless failures that go unnoticed. The statistics are grim: around 99% of startups do not succeed, and it’s unlikely you’ll be the exception.
Section 1.2: Job Market Challenges
Transitioning to a new job can be difficult if you come from a lesser-known startup. Many hiring managers may not recognize the name of your previous employer, complicating your job search.
Chapter 2: The Downside of Coding Practices
Startups frequently adopt subpar engineering practices. It’s not uncommon to find yourself working with poorly written code in production environments. I even experienced a situation where testing was conducted in production—this is a waste of time and leads to learning bad habits.
In this video, "Why You Should or Should Not Work at a Startup," Justin Kan discusses the pros and cons of startup culture, providing insight into whether it's the right choice for you.
Another valuable resource is the video "Why Startups Fail: Top 10 Mistakes to Avoid," which explores common pitfalls and mistakes that can lead to startup failure.
Wrapping Up
It's crucial not to be swayed by the enticing perks that startups offer, such as free meals and trendy office spaces. When funding runs out—which is a frequent occurrence—you might find yourself out of a job. In the long run, pursuing a position in a large corporation while working on a side business could be a much more stable path to success. Until next time.