You're a startup development professional. What benefits should you expect from your employer?

2 Flexibility and autonomy

Another common benefit of working for a startup is the flexibility and autonomy that you can have over your work. Startups tend to have less bureaucracy, hierarchy, and micromanagement than larger corporations, which means you can have more control over your schedule, location, projects, and tools. You can also experiment with new ideas, technologies, and methodologies, and learn from your failures and successes. However, flexibility and autonomy also require more responsibility, accountability, and initiative from you, as you'll have to manage your own time, resources, and goals, and communicate effectively with your team and stakeholders. Therefore, you should balance your freedom with your commitment, and seek feedback and guidance when needed.

3 Learning and growth

Another uncommon benefit of working for a startup is the learning and growth that you can experience as a developer. Startups often expose you to a variety of challenges, problems, and opportunities that require you to learn new skills, adapt to changing environments, and collaborate with diverse people. You can also access mentorship, coaching, and training from experienced founders, investors, and advisors, who can help you develop your technical, business, and leadership abilities. However, learning and growth also demand more effort, patience, and resilience from you, as you'll have to cope with uncertainty, ambiguity, and failure, and constantly update your knowledge and skills. Therefore, you should embrace a growth mindset, seek feedback and support, and celebrate your achievements.

4 Culture and community

Another uncommon benefit of working for a startup is the culture and community that you can be part of as a developer. Startups often have a strong vision, mission, and values that inspire and motivate you to work towards a common goal. You can also build meaningful relationships with your colleagues, customers, and partners, who share your passion, enthusiasm, and curiosity. You can also enjoy perks like free food, drinks, games, events, and swag, that create a fun and friendly atmosphere. However, culture and community also require more alignment, engagement, and loyalty from you, as you'll have to fit in with the startup's norms, expectations, and behaviors, and contribute to its success and well-being. Therefore, you should assess your fit and compatibility with the startup's culture and community, and express your opinions and values.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?