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Wednesday, July 22, 2009

Are Start-ups good to work with?

In these days of so-called "recession", I have seen a lot of start-ups coming up and struggling for their existence. These start-ups are typically started by those who do not understand the domain, but have an urge to do something. Such companies often will attract the unemployed talent (or the ones not happy in their present jobs), offer them an hefty pay package and once their work is done, ask them do leave. Are such start-ups really good to work at?

I am a start-up specialist and have worked with excellent start-ups like Cleartrip, iSmart Panache to name a few. These companies are founded and driven by professional and industry leaders and that is why they are still in business. But, others have just made a quiet exit and are not even heard about. I really wonder about those who have joined such start-ups which are there in the business for 6 or 12 months and then fade away. Aren't we risking our career and putting it at stake by joining such organizations? My answer would be yes. If so, what should we do to sustain in the current economy?

I personally feel to take the good, old approach taken by our father and grandfather. Join a large conglomerate which is there in the business for atleast 10 years, and tay there, till you retire. These large companies are largely driven by process, people and performance and often value the people strength as true Human Capital. In the bargain, you may draw a lesser salary than a funky start-up, but at the end of the day, if you count the hidden benefits that you get, it is really worthwhile to work with a large organization.

Having said all this, the choice is finally yours only.