Lessons learned working for a: Start up

Unrealistic Goals: Start-ups often strive to achieve big goals in a short amount of time, which may not always be feasible. This can lead to stress and burnout for designers, as they may feel pressure to produce work that meets these lofty expectations.

Stock Options: Some start-ups may offer stock options as part of their compensation package, but it's important to understand that these options may not be worth much until the company goes public or is acquired. This means that you may not see any significant financial benefits from holding these options for years.

Lower Salary: In exchange for the potential to receive stock options, designers working for start-ups may have to accept a lower salary compared to what they would earn working for a corporate company. This can be a significant financial sacrifice for some designers.

Limited Financial Rewards: Even if a start-up is successful and experiences a "exit", designers may not see significant financial rewards. This is because designers are often not among the top shareholders in a company and may receive only a small portion of the proceeds from an exit.

Scams and Unethical Behaviors: Unfortunately, some start-ups may resort to unethical or misleading tactics to gain attention, such as sending merchandise and asking employees to refer friends to the company. As a designer, it's important to be aware of these practices and refuse to participate in them.

Opportunities for Growth: Despite the challenges, working for a start-up can also offer opportunities for personal and professional growth. Designers will have the chance to work on new and exciting projects, learn new skills, and potentially play a role in shaping the future of the company.

Avoid Crypto-Related Companies: It's also important to be cautious when considering a role at a start-up that is focused on cryptocurrency or blockchain. These companies are often associated with scams and fraudulent practices, and designers should be careful when evaluating these types of opportunities.

In conclusion, working as a designer for a start-up can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it's important to be aware of the potential challenges and drawbacks. If you're motivated, adaptable, and willing to take risks, then working for a start-up may be the perfect career choice for you. Just remember to carefully evaluate each opportunity and protect yourself from unethical practices and scams.