would you work for free to get into a start up?

Chase
ashana385

Go to company page Chase

ashana385
Aug 2, 2017 13 Comments

I want to transition from this MIS/BI role into a more developer role and using the skills I want to learn (SQL,python, Hadoop). my question is would you consider working for free only 2ish hours a day to build those skills and hope you get a spot into the start up? I really believe in the company and really think I can learn a lot there.

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TOP 13 Comments
  • Google / Eng
    SMDj70

    Go to company page Google Eng

    PRE
    Facebook
    SMDj70
    I'd pick up your own side project if you want to work for free on something. As a manager, I'd really think twice about taking on someone who would work for free as well.
    Aug 2, 2017 1
    • Chase
      ashana385

      Go to company page Chase

      ashana385
      OP
      thank you for the feedback , good to know. I was considering starting my own project. also didn't think how it would look interms of management when offering to work for free
      Aug 2, 2017
  • Uber
    GMie27

    Go to company page Uber

    GMie27
    A sound business will not let its employees work for free. No payment means no responsibilities. Especially on the technology side, engineers must have enough incentives to keep everything within SLA.
    Aug 2, 2017 0
  • no
    Aug 2, 2017 0
  • New / Eng
    MrLinux

    New Eng

    BIO
    Senior Linux Administrator
    MrLinux
    Free doesn't always mean it will benefit them. If someone wants to work for free, that sends red flags - means a lot of my time will sink into training.

    You have to show value and be a hard worker by educating yourself first. Research what they are working on and how you can help. Do some LinkedIn stalking and get warm introductions to take some folks out to a 15min coffee to learn more about where they need help. Just high level, nothing confidential.

    This is different if you are a new grad and I am actually looking to train newbies. Although showing initiative is always a good thing.
    Aug 2, 2017 3
    • New / Eng
      MrLinux

      New Eng

      BIO
      Senior Linux Administrator
      MrLinux
      No need to mention it was family related. Keep it strictly professional.

      Talk with them to understand their struggles and how you can help. Bonuses points if you can give examples of doing it before. When talking to a company, focus starts with them and what you can bring to the table. Since you are going to them, you have to sell yourself why they should consider you.
      Aug 3, 2017
    • Chase
      ashana385

      Go to company page Chase

      ashana385
      OP
      makes sense very helpful advice there is a meet up where the company is going to attend so I'll use that to gauge and get some more background. thanks for the help!
      Aug 3, 2017
  • Microsoft / Eng
    ric_ta

    Go to company page Microsoft Eng

    ric_ta
    fuck no
    Aug 2, 2017 1