Hi everyone, I've been at IBM for a bit now s my only first/big job and I got a compelling offer from a startup (100 mil funded, started 5 years ago, Series B) in an industry that I always wanted to get into with a title bump (Principal level... aka I'll be the first of my role in that company). The team in IBM isn't that great but the company itself has treated me very well so far. However, my growth (as well as estimating my potential growth) and the team dynamic has been really eating away at me. The startup is offering me to create a new line of products that will be part of their core business model and I'm excited by it (and the fact that I will be in the industry that the startup is in). I'm fairly confident that I will be able to deliver and learn a ton of new things in an industry that I am fairly new to. Another aspect I thought of, is working in a different environment with arguably smarter people as IBM was my first/big job. I'd also have to cancel a purchase on a house and move from Austin to DMV (DC/Maryland/Virginia) area. Fortunately, no debt and a US Citizen. I'm in the upper range of 20s and I thought if this is the time to take risk, this is one of my last chances to join a startup. Should I suck it up and stay at IBM and try to move teams / work things out? Startup: 180K Base + Options (0.05-0.075% stake). Relocation included. Likely to get Security Clearance. No room for negotiation. Current: 210K Base, 85K RSU <7 YoE
It’s better to regret doing something than not doing it. Go for the startup if you like the role.
That startup TC sucks. 0.05% of the company is worth $50K unless you believe their BS valuation.
If you care about pay that much, why stay in IBM in the first place. Go find a job at FANG and make much more than IBM
What band are you at in IBM? Must be STSM at that salary level. I guess it depends whether you're willing to take the risk for more growth or continue with IBM which is more stable. No telling if the startup will be around in 5 years or when a recession hits.
Band 9
I wouldn't risk a band that high unless you are sure. However, if you can mitigate the risk the startup will payout in the longer run if it can make it the 7 years to profitability.