Management Tip of the Day: Ask These 3 Questions Before Joining that Start-Up

Are you having trouble viewing this email? If so, click here to see it in a web browser. HOME   |   TIPS   |   BLOGS   |   THE MAGAZINE   |   BOOKS   |   STORE RSS   |   Mobile NOVEMBER 22, 2012 Ask These 3 Questions Before Joining that Start-Up Many job candidates are turning to positions in start-ups over more traditional jobs. These new ventures offer more fun, intellectual rewards, and the possibility of big payoffs down the line. There are also more inherent risks. Before you take that great start-up job, ask these questions: How many outstanding shares exist? Joining a start-up can have significant upside but you need to understand what percentage of the company you own. Ask how the number of shares you get compares to the number outstanding. When will you see returns? Time flies in start-up land. When you get a job offer, make sure you understand how long it will take to actually receive the equity you're promised. Does the team have a track record? Make sure you have a strong understanding of the team, their investors, and their advisers. Do they have what it takes to be successful? Today's Management Tip was adapted from "Five Questions to Ask Before Joining that Start-up" by Dan Reich. Read the full post and join the discussion » Share Today's Tip: FEATURED PRODUCT Writing Skills Harvard ManageMentor Online Module Skillful writing helps you accomplish your business objectives and extends your influence as a manager. Learn to create clearer, more effective written communications. Includes specific guidelines for preparing memos, letters, emails, and other common business documents. One-year single user license. ADVERTISEMENT Follow the Tip: PREVIOUS TIPS Energize Your Network New Job? Only Make the Sacrifices You Want To Keep Your Team Small A Better Way to Brainstorm in Groups Maintain Control When Conducting a Job Interview Make Your To-Do List Work If You Both Work, Stay Happy Help Your Multitasking Colleague Break the Habit Manage a Challenging (and Valuable) Employee When Working Hard, Make Time for Rest All Previous Tips BEST SELLERS HBR's 10 Must Reads: The Essentials HBR's 10 Must Reads Library Set Guide to Persuasive Presentations Guide to Better Business Writing Guide to Getting the Right Work Done Introducing Mobile ManageMentor Powered by the proven content of Harvard ManageMentor™ iTunes >> Android >> UNSUBSCRIBE   |   UPDATE YOUR PROFILE   |   MORE EMAIL NEWSLETTERS   |   PRIVACY POLICY Was this email forwarded to you? If so, sign up to start receiving your own copy. ABOUT THIS MAILING LIST You have received this message because you subscribed to the "Management Tip of the Day" email newsletter from Harvard Business Review. If at any point you wish to remove yourself from this list, change your email address, or sign up for other email newsletters and alerts, please visit the Harvard Business Review Email Newsletter Preference Center. OPT OUT If you do not wish to receive any email messages from Harvard Business Review, click here. ADVERTISE WITH HBR This enewsletter is read by thousands of decision makers every day. Learn more about connecting your brand with this audience. Copyright © 2012 Harvard Business School Publishing, an affiliate of Harvard Business School. All rights reserved. Harvard Business Publishing | 60 Harvard Way | Boston, MA 02163 Customer Service: 800-545-7685 (+1-617-783-7600 outside the U.S. and Canada)