Resources

Qualify the opportunity

• Understand that compensation structures for startups are different than established companies. Don’t go in with unreasonable expectations.
• You need to truly value equity. Stock options are generally a big part of an entrepreneurial compensation package. If you don’t believe in the value of those options, it is generally not the right opportunity for you.
• Focus on startups that are tackling an acute problem in a huge industry and are well capitalized with great investors who have built or operated businesses before.
• Don’t waste your time on a startup that is unlikely to survive.

Embrace ambiguity

• Starting a company, building an industry and changing the world is not for the feint of heart. You’ll be making fresh tracks every day.
• Avoid analysis paralysis. There is only so much you can know – we got to the moon by launching in the right direction and mid-course correcting all along the way.
• Learn from your mistakes and don’t ever be afraid to keep trying.

Choose to work with good people

• Find colleagues who share your passion and energy. Growing a company is hard enough without getting in each other’s way.
• Work for someone you respect and admire and from whom you can learn – not someone you think you will quickly eclipse.

Prepare to work hard and learn a lot

• Be prepared to work really hard—startups are about lots of work, long hours and unpredictable schedules.
• There’s no work substitute for having worked at a startup that was successful – you’ll learn a ton, have a blast and have built your resume by leaps and bounds regardless of your level.