What to think about when considering a “startup”

Curious as to what all you consider when you’re applying/joining smaller companies/startups The one I’m considering is Series C funded (total 200m+ and has solid investors), only 1 review on Glassdoor, nothing anywhere else. How do you weed out the shit from the gold?

Travelport buttnpushr Nov 18, 2019

Talk to the employees and owners if possible, get a feel for what they have going on

Kaiser Permanente Elho50 OP Nov 18, 2019

I got requested for an on-site and I think that might be the only time I get to talk to the employees. I could also send random connection requests on LinkedIn too lol

Travelport buttnpushr Nov 18, 2019

Well there you go

UserTesting CWJI74 Nov 18, 2019

Give some real thought to their business model. They don’t need to print money out of the gate (and if they’re claiming they do that’s a warning sign as well); but they should show some viability. Look for a revenue stream that has some directed intention — not a shotgun approach to market investment. Culture is hard to gauge. On site ask interviewers why they decided to join and if they’ve enjoyed their time there. Try to understand the work/life blend. Do people feel relaxed yet motivated? It might sound crazy but a company with a solid foundation and motivated employees that aren’t risking burnout is where you’ll find the gold.

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yMiP15 Nov 18, 2019

What did they offer you?

Kaiser Permanente Elho50 OP Nov 18, 2019

Haven’t done the on site yet but I’ve faced a similar dilemma previously where I actually backed out from a startup offering low TC for middle of SF (110k). Is it out of the question to inquire about TC range prior to scheduling an on-site? As I have limited PTO at my current job and I need to interview wisely.

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yMiP15 Nov 18, 2019

It’s ok to inquire about the range but don’t push too hard, use it for practice