Start-ups are a hub for growth and innovation. Working or Interning for a start-up, however, has its pros and cons. If you're on the fence about it all, the list below might help you decide.
Quick fact: the phrase 'Pros and Cons' is derived from its Latin roots 'Pro et Contra,' meaning 'For and Against.'
Benefits
1. Collaborative Work Environment
Start-ups are where ideas are birthed, tested, and marketed. Every business has a history of a team of dedicated individuals working together to reach heights. The start-up environment is a challenging yet collaborative space, where your suggestions can cause a significant change in management or the direction of growth for the company. You’re likely to hear many perspectives and become inspired by your colleagues, levelling up your social skills in no time.
2. Versatile Roles and Visible Growth
Start-ups are known for their transparency, and progress is through change made by observation. At a start-up, you're often adapting to multiple roles and required to practice a diverse set of business processes. Start-ups substantially invest in building platforms, web design, and SEO. Marketing plays a huge part and rings in revenue. You'll find yourself engaging with clients and promoting the brand through various channels. Working for a start-up is a definite yes if you're keen to learn and enhance these skills.
3. An Extended Network
Due to its versatile and collaborative workspace, start-ups are among the top hotspots for meeting people from diverse backgrounds and growing your professional network. You'll connect to many others in the business, be invited to networking events, and meet with key stakeholders. Making your profile visible can help you in the long run. It always best to have an amicable relationship with your boss.
Drawbacks
1. Odd Work Hours
A growing business inevitably comes with odd working hours. Group meetings to recuperate or strategize tend to occur frequently and might take up a considerable portion of time, depending on the agenda. If the start-up is international or is outsourcing support, you could find yourself at meetings during dinnertime or just as you wake. Most days, however, pass by as a regular nine to five, and start-ups are slightly more lenient with deadlines.
2. On the Radar
Start-up CEOs are responsible for multiple aspects of their company. They are often rushing to complete tasks and keep on par with the market to rake in investors. Hence, working for a start-up entails that you must be an asset to the team. They can be forgiving; however, you are required to value-add by performing and delivering results (no slacking!).
3. Uncertainty
It is incredibly hard to predict the success or direction of a start-up, considering the wave of change in trends that happen every so often. The uncertainty of a start-up might cause concerns regarding job security. Although they continually work on sustaining their business, there's no telling what the future holds. Start-up investments may or may not bloom into profitable companies. Take note that most start-ups aren't financially well-endowed, you might have to trade in the pay for the experience.