A friend asked me for advice: startup or big company

It’s difficult to disagree with Bijan, but to me both startups and big companies are about passion, vision, people and products. And there shouldn’t be a difference there!

Some might say that it is about the influence you will have. And I tend to disagree with this too. While not everyone will get a C -level job so their influence can be seen immediately, I feel that everyone can make a difference (maybe not at the world/company level, but only to the people he is working with).

Some might say it is about careers and future. But I think you can build a career and a future in both.

Another thing that is usually mentioned is risks. But can you really say that it is safer to have a job with a big company than with a startup?

Look, I love startups.

But the reality is that they are hard, risky and stressful at times. I believe you should only join a startup if you are inspired and love the vision, people and product. And you will have far more responsibility in a startup than in any large company position. That’s the beautiful stuff you get back in return for risk.

Of course, there is huge potential upside if options become valuable at some point — but that shouldn’t be the primary reason for joining a startup.

—bijan

So, I’m wondering, what is the difference for you?