A colleague recently encountered a workplace dilemma: a startup client, who originally applied for a full-time position, suddenly requested that he first work part-time designing PCBs, promising to make up the salary difference once funding was secured.
This topic sparked heated discussions within the industry, with varying opinions.
Critics: Beware of “Free Riding” Risks
“This is clearly an attempt to get something for nothing; you should look for another job”—this was the most direct reaction.
Many peers believe that financial constraints are common in the early stages of a startup, but requiring work under the condition of “future compensation” is essentially a form of exploitation.
“In the early days of a startup, there’s a high chance they could just disappear”—the high failure rate of startups is an objective fact.
Statistics show that 90% of startups fail within the first three years.
If the company suddenly disappears, the pay for part-time work may be impossible to recover.
“Don’t trust the dream sellers; always get paid before doing the work”—this is the most pragmatic advice.
Industry veterans emphasize that in business collaborations, the principle of “payment before service” is the most basic guarantee, especially when working with startups.
Optimists: Potential Opportunities Should Not Be Overlooked
“Young people can give it a try; you might end up as a co-founder”—this viewpoint suggests that while the risks of joining a startup early are high, if the company succeeds, early employees often receive substantial rewards.
In the tech industry, there are indeed cases where early employees achieved financial freedom due to their companies going public.
Realists: The Gap Between Ideal and Reality
“I used to think like that, believing ‘if I can’t be the boss, I’ll be the boss’s right-hand man,’ empathizing with the boss and working hard for them, only to find the boss living in a large villa while I was still in a small rented room”—this personal experience highlights the harsh gap between ideals and reality.
Many early employees invest a lot of effort, only to find their rewards do not match their contributions.
In light of this situation, professionals suggest considering the following factors:
1. Assess the feasibility of the startup project: Research the business model, market demand, and team background to judge the probability of success.
2. Clarify the terms of the agreement: Even if accepting a part-time arrangement, a written agreement should be signed to specify work content, compensation standards, and payment timelines.
3. Weigh opportunity costs: Consider the opportunity cost of the time invested and whether it will affect the search for other more stable job opportunities.
4. Risk tolerance: Evaluate your financial situation to determine if you can bear the potential loss of compensation.
5. Long-term career planning: Consider whether this experience aligns with your career development direction and if it can provide valuable experience or connections.
Maintaining rational judgment during the startup craze is particularly important.
For entrepreneurs, cost-saving can be understood, but shifting business risks onto employees is unacceptable.
For job seekers, it is essential to maintain an open mindset while also adhering to professional boundaries to avoid becoming “startup fuel.”
Previous Highlights:
1.A former hardware engineer colleague said he hasn’t improved his skills but has certainly become better at flattery.2. A client wanted me to design a PCB for him during the Qingming holiday, but I refused and chose to return home to pay respects.3. A client wanted to pay me 100 yuan to design a PCB and then sell it to him for 10 yuan each.4. I didn’t have time to take on this PCB design, so I reluctantly recommended it to a friend.5. Quoted 100 yuan, and peers said it disrupts the market; quoted 1000 yuan, and the client said it disrupts the market.It starts with “Looking“It is sincere to “Like“It is to “Reward“Finally, “Share“