Tips for start up employees

You are in the wrong place if a mere Job is what you are seeking. Seek elsewhere.

See the business you build grow. It is downright fun. 

If you want a boss, work in a large organisation. If you want to be your own boss, think startup.

Balancing risk? A bit of cash and a bit of equity is the way to go.

If you’re not building something you think you’ll be proud of. It’s not worth it. Life is short.

Be informed. Learn the basics of terms such as shares, options, vesting schedules and dilution. These words are more important to you than the term “salary”.

Be passionate of achieving something big, not building your resume. One big, hairy,  audacious success – and you won’t need a resume.

Founders and promoters of startups are usually quirky people. Get used to it.

Change as many hats as possible. Be of assistance where it is required.

Don’t worry too much about being fired. Most startups need their employees more than the employees need their startup.

Go beyond just equity ownership, take emotional ownership.

Take lots of photos and keep all memorabilia. You’ll probably want these someday when you speak to the press of your early successes.

If you’re not having fun, you shouldn’t be here.

Even if the start up fails, your experience of this failure will lead you to success.