It is generally easier to gain experience from within a startup than a large global corporate and the flexible nature of the startup world offers you a multitude of ad-hoc opportunities to gain experience in this ecosystem.
If you’re looking to gain experience
There are many different ways into the startup world, and a proactive individual should be able to secure experience without too much trouble. Experience is often unpaid, so it is important to research the roles well and communicate clearly regarding your salary expectations. Startups that have recently received funding and are growing are more likely to offer remuneration.
Whether it is better to get training and mentoring within a larger organisation before jumping into a startup or launching your own business, is a hotly debated topic. Focus on your own skills gaps and career goals when looking to gain experience.
If you’re early on in your career
Be flexible about your starting point.
Consider startups where you can get in early in their development – usually companies with less than 10 staff members. This might be a less competitive option, and in a small organisation you’ll get more exposure to the senior members of the company.
Apply for a job in an area you have experience in. Once you’re in, you can work your way internally to the area where you want to be. For example, if you have experience in sales but want to work on product development, join a company that needs sales support and prove that you are competent. Companies are more likely to give chances to employees who are already excelling in another area.
If you have more experience
Experience can be a bonus for startups, especially as they grow. If you have already worked within entrepreneurial enterprises, you can probably cope with the ups and down of the startup world and have a resilient character.
Even if the businesses you previously founded or were a part of were not successful, the experience of making that journey is invaluable and will often be looked on favourably by future business partners or employers.
It is often possible to source new roles through existing contacts, recommendations and the meet-ups that take place within the industry. Networking is essential, and a proactive approach is important.