I just started at my first startup job a few months ago, and agree with a lot of the sentiment in this post.
The biggest difference I have noticed: at most companies, a new employee is a body to get done the same work, in the same way, as somebody else. You are defined by how well you execute an already-constructed set of tasks and goals.
At a startup, you are valuable if you add a whole new set of opinions and skills to the team. If you come in and just do what you're asked, even if you do it well, you probably aren't doing very well. You should notice things about the business that are not optimal, blind-spots that the previous employees hadn't thought about, easy ways to save or make lots of money, even though these things aren't part of your formal job description.
I disagree a little here. Taking on extra projects and solving problems outside of your remit is certainly great. However, you must also take the time to do the job for which you were hired - very well.
Your X factor value is important but don't leave the company with a hole you were brought in to fill.
Alternatively, be the first member of a new team (like I did). There are no expectations of what work you will do or how, so it's like being in a startup, except you have a lot more stuff to play with.
The biggest difference I have noticed: at most companies, a new employee is a body to get done the same work, in the same way, as somebody else. You are defined by how well you execute an already-constructed set of tasks and goals.
At a startup, you are valuable if you add a whole new set of opinions and skills to the team. If you come in and just do what you're asked, even if you do it well, you probably aren't doing very well. You should notice things about the business that are not optimal, blind-spots that the previous employees hadn't thought about, easy ways to save or make lots of money, even though these things aren't part of your formal job description.