Should I Work At A Startup?
Are you a job-seeker hesitating to join a startup? Then this blog is definitely for you. You might be surprised that in 2021 Pakistani startups overall raised a record $365.87m.
As the number of startups in Pakistan increases, it’s safe to say that job opportunities too will increase. So if you’re looking for a shift in your career or you are a fresher in search of your first job, you should be aware of the pros and cons of working in a growing company.
Obviously, there will be differences between working for a brand new company and working for a well-established, tenured company. However, it is quite evident that startups in Pakistan are reshaping the industries and lives along with job opportunities.
Coming back to the question if you should consider working with a startup? Then these pointers would definitely clear your mind. So let’s dive into the benefits and challenges you may face when working for a startup.
Pros of working at a Startup
More Responsibilities, More Learning
Many startups will provide their workers additional responsibilities compared to established organizations. Startups usually hire their employees depending on each employee’s specific skill set. However, they often give each employee a more significant role within the organization to compensate for the lack of employees as a whole.
You’ll also be involved in decision-making that wouldn’t be open to all workers at an established organization. This can greatly benefit you if you are a fresh professional because you’ll receive an excellent opportunity to discover new skills you probably wouldn’t be exposed to in a corporate or more established organization.
Also, the founders and employees of startups usually work together, and you’ll have straight access to the individuals behind the startup.
Isn’t it amazing that you can learn from them every stage of the way?
Freedom and Flexibility at Work
Freedom and flexibility are twice as great in startups, especially with your schedule and your direction to the work itself. Remember, you might be the only one doing your job? When and how you do the job and the way you approach it could be flexible; especially if you’re working on something that’s never been done by you earlier.
Trial and error is part of the journey, especially with a new business launch, and you might see yourself using your flexibility as you take on roles you never thought.
Friendly Environment
It’s nearly impossible not to relate startups with trendy and relaxed office environments with game rooms and leisure areas. Stimulating work environments encourage the creativity and innovation that will push the organization towards success.
Also, the dress code tends to be much more relaxed, as do interactions with coworkers. Since everyone is working on launching the company, your colleagues will be more focused on teamwork and motivation than the competition.
Opportunities To Enhance Your Innovation
Employees who work at startups are usually given plenty of opportunities to show off their expertise and knowledge to contribute to the growth and success of the startup.
Whereas better established and corporate organizations generally have a chain of command for ideas to go through. However, in startups, the employees can take their ideas directly to the top. This is especially valuable for more creative individuals who regularly develop exciting innovations they wish to share with their team.
Cons of working at a startup
While there are various benefits of working at a startup, there are also possible drawbacks you should be familiar with before deciding.
Work Life Balance
Building a startup from the ground often comes with more responsibilities, which takes a considerable amount of passion, dedication, and focus.
Hours are usually odd, rarely sticking to the “9-5,” That means working long hours and even on holidays and weekends, which might disturb your work-life balance and your routine.
Lack of Structure
The primary difference in joining a startup could be the lack of structure, affecting work hours and processes.
The lack of structure at startup companies lends itself to more than just your typical 9-5 working day. You might discover that the lines of workweek and weekend start to blur as you hope that your actions will deliver success.
Some may appreciate this lack of structure, while others might succeed in a structured environment that a startup might not provide. This can sometimes leave employees feeling unsure of who they should go to regarding a particular issue and result in workplace confusion and uncertainty.
Limited Resources
Resources for professional development are usually restricted among fresh startups. Most startups work on a limited budget against well-resourced rivals until the startup is more established and brings in ample revenue.
Will I be able to work at a startup?
The answer would differ for everyone. It’s fair to say that everyone desires career growth, so weigh in the pros & cons as well as your work style before making a decision.
Working at a startup might not be your cup of tea, but think over this; are you willing to risk losing the opportunity to work at a startup that could become a multi-million company tomorrow?
