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My Journey from Corporate Giants to Startup Ventures
Perspectives on working for a Startup Company
Marci Parker
Jun 11, 2024
Hi friends! I’m taking a moment to dive into my career journey, which has zigzagged from bustling corporate giants with over 75,000 employees each to dynamic startups, where being part of a 10-person team felt just as intense. I’ve gathered some unique insights along the way and I’m excited to share them with you!
Cultural Differences:
Working in a large company often feels like being a part of a well-oiled machine—each part functioning in its designated role. Contrast that with a startup, where the vibe is more like building the plane as you fly it. The energy is palpable, and the pace? Lightning fast. You’re not just an employee; you’re a trailblazer. The experience I've gained from stretching beyond my official role has been invaluable in shaping my career. I have a better sense of my strengths and weaknesses and how I best can support my team.Role Flexibility:
In a large corporation, your role is typically defined, and boundaries are clear. In my startup days, however, I could be brainstorming ideas in the morning about solving internal challenges and troubleshooting customer issues by the afternoon. This flexibility is thrilling but can also be a whirlwind of responsibilities. Keeping myself organized was a challenge and I sought out advice from my peers on how they do it.
Owning the Agility:
There’s something incredibly fulfilling about seeing your work directly affect the company’s trajectory. In startups, the line between effort and impact is direct and clear, making each project feel like a personal mission. It’s a stark contrast to the slower, more segmented impact felt in larger firms. For me, this is where I became addicted to working in smaller organizations. I love seeing how we can display agility and quality and passion for our clients!
Challenges and Rewards:
Startups come with their fair share of challenges—unpredictable days, a constant push against limitations, and yes, even the occasional chaos. But the rewards? They’re equally monumental. From the camaraderie of small teams to the thrill of achieving something seemingly impossible, the highs are truly high. I am energized by working with teams with focus on how we achieve the impossible – and then celebrate together when we do it.
Personal Growth:
The fast-paced, all-hands-on-deck environment of a startup has been a turbo boost for my personal and professional growth. Skills I never knew I had were tested and honed, and the learning curve was nothing short of steep. It’s an adventure that’s pushed me to my limits and then some. You may have heard me describe my job as “the hardest and the most fun job I’ve ever had.”
Each part of my career has offered valuable lessons and unforgettable experiences. From the structured halls of massive corporations to the bustling chaos of startups, these contrasting worlds have shaped who I am today, both professionally and personally. If you’re ever considering a leap from one to the other, my advice? Go for it—the growth and experiences are worth every bit of the ride!