Working at a Startup: Lessons Learned
Working at a startup is as challenging as it is rewarding. There is no doubt you will learn, grow, and change.
Below are some essential startup lessons learned to keep in mind when entering or working for a startup:
1. Change is constant: Startups are constantly changing. They often grow from just a few employees to several hundred or more. As this growth happens, it’s easy to begin to feel disconnected. It’s important to remind yourself that the disconnect you may feel as the company grows is not personal or a fault of yours—but rather a natural part of the startup world. Change is constant and necessary. As the company grows, you will also grow - and you must regularly evaluate your continued fit.
2. Don’t take change personally: Startups often face tough decisions that can be hard to make, especially under pressure. It’s common to feel hurt when things don’t go your way, but these decisions are not malicious. Instead, they are made to help the company keep moving forward and are often broader-focused.
3. Enjoy the startup pace: Startups operate at a fast pace, which can sometimes feel hectic, disorganized, and even chaotic. While being a part of such a dynamic environment can be exciting, it can also be stressful. Over time, you may become accustomed to this rapid pace. Keep an eye on how you interact with your world outside the startup. Are you carrying this rapid, hectic pace throughout the rest of your life? Do you want to? Enjoy the pace of a startup, but also find your balance.
4. Work relationships are worth your effort: Building relationships with colleagues is crucial, especially at a startup. These relationships can develop into personal, lifelong, meaningful friendships and require attention and care. Take advantage of this opportunity! A strong relationship with your coworkers can help you maximize your job satisfaction and, as a bonus - may even advance your career! Networking is a massive aspect of the startup world and is a skill you should cultivate.
5. It’s OK not to know everything: It’s OK if you don’t have all the answers, but it’s essential to make a decision when needed. Delaying a decision is a decision in itself. Asking questions and being open to learning from others is crucial for personal growth and becoming a valuable member of the team. Don’t let the fear of not knowing hold you back. The best response is acknowledging that you don’t know but are willing to find the answer.