The growing interest in working for startup companies stems from the desire to be a part of the next big innovation or a more fun, relaxed company culture. Yes, the unique nature of the startup ecosystem is a major selling point for many talented professionals. However, working at a startup offers benefits that traditional company structures simply don’t have, including unique learning experiences, connections, and more. If you’re curious about working at a startup, keep reading to learn about all of the benefits startup employment has to offer.
Why Work at a Startup?
Working at a startup isn’t like working at any other job; the startup ecosystem is vastly different from other work environments because startups are characterized by innovation, growth, and creativity. And, there is a reason that so many young professionals are looking for startup jobs — there are several benefits to working at a startup company. We’ve got them all here for you:
You’ll Learn From Innovators
Startup founders are experts at challenging the status quo. An innovative mindset is an essential ingredient in the anatomy of a startup founder, and as a part of a startup company, you can expect to learn from the entrepreneurs that shake up their industry. If you’re someone considering becoming an entrepreneur yourself, this can be an extremely valuable and informative workplace experience.
You’ll Experience a New Work Culture
Forget what you know about workplace etiquette; startups have reinvented the wheel when it comes to company culture. Typically, startups are a far more casual environment than traditional corporate offices. One reason for this is that startups are often launched by younger professionals; plus, a casual environment adds to the overall work experience and provides what many consider to be a more positive atmosphere.
You’ll Gain More Opportunities
While you may be hired to do one job at a startup, you can expect to fill many more roles within the company. Startups, by their nature, are constantly evolving and pursuing new growth and therefore require their employees to be adaptable and quick to learn new skills. However, this also provides you with the chance to take on new challenges and build your skillset — opening you up to more professional opportunities in the future.
You’ll Build Closer Connections
The connections you’re able to build at a startup can be much closer compared to other workplace relationships. When you are working at a startup, a large percentage of your time and energy will be spent working with your team to propel the company closer to its goals. Due to this, you can expect to build close connections with your coworkers and founders through shared time alone.
You’ll Be a Part of Something Big
One of the unique aspects of working at a startup is that you’re present for the formative stages of the business and, if you continue to work for the company, you will be a part of the transformation from seed stage to initial public offering (IPO) and beyond. The satisfaction that comes from helping to build something as impactful as a startup company is immense. Not to mention, you can carry this experience forward into your career to further your professional goals.
You’ll Enjoy Company Perks
Startups, especially ones at their early stage, don’t typically bring a lot of money in at once. Therefore, salaries may not be as high as you could expect from an established company. However, one of the cornerstones of the startup culture is workplace perks, which could include complimentary food and beverages, gym memberships, discounts through the startup’s partnerships, and more.
You’ll Have Potential for Partial Ownership
Many startups offer their employees the option for partial ownership of the company as an incentive and reward for working at their company. Since working at a startup can be more labor-intensive than other corporate gigs, this is especially helpful for this type of business. By gaining shares in the company, you are not only a partial owner of the company, but you have the opportunity to earn a great deal of money if the company reaches its growth objectives.