What to expect from working at a start-up

Start-ups are glamorous and working for one confers just a bit of the sparkle and some fantastic opportunities. That is, if the company performs well. The problem is nine out of 10 start-ups fail, according to Forbes. About 42 percent of them fail because no one wants their product. That is something to ask yourself before you jump on board at start-up. If it does go well, there will be benefits:

* Getting in on the ground floor: According to Fast Company, that means opportunities. One person might be hired as a content writer, but quickly end up becoming the content manager responsible for all aspects of writing, editing, and publishing as the company grows. In an established business, this sort of advancement might take years. And, by the way, a little equity in a skyrocketing start-up has created more than one millionaire.

* Working with innovators: Entrepreneurs approach problems differently and are motivated by a strong passion for their ideas and products which can be a great source of inspiration and knowledge.

* Being part of the creation: According to Inc. magazine, start-ups expect employees to pour heart and soul into the company — working long hours and not expecting extra compensation. This is because most start-ups need everything and can’t afford anything. It’s “all hands on deck” for long hours and lower-than-normal pay. Having a personal life might be out the window if there is a new product launching on a deadline.

Also, start-ups are usually only about six to 12 months away from getting shut down and are constantly on the search for future capital to keep the doors open.