How to work in Startups?

[LoganLand]

Hi,

I am an experienced software developer, specifically have created numerous iOS/Android/Win/Mac apps, both for other companies and myself.

Having earned a really great salary previously, I want to do something a little more high risk.

I am thinking of getting involved in a technology based startup as the software architect/developer.

My financial position means I do not need a full blown salary and now seems a great time to take a risk.

Does anyone know how you get involved in these types of organizations. I am sure many startups need the technology person.

Thanks
Logan

 

[tony84]

I reckon it will taking about 4.3 seconds for your inbox to be filled with "opportunities".

Have you tried looking for some of the start up mentor companies such as Blue Orchid?

 

[LoganLand]

tony84, yes, I had already found many sites that list ideas where the people behind them don't have any investment and wont risk any of their own money.

I think as a minimum a company should be able to convince an investor or have some really good reason why not.

I have lost count of the number of "new social apps" type ideas.

Thats my real question, where are the real startups?

 

[Tim Coulter]

I recommend creating a profile on AngelList. From my experience, you will receive occasional contact from established or new startups, seeking to fill staff or co-founder positions in return for either salary, equity or a mix of the two.

You can also proactively search their database for startups that are recruiting for your skill set. Although the bulk of the listed startups are in the USA, there are plenty who are happy to work remotely with you. There is also a healthy selection of UK and Europe-based startups.

 

[toastking]

Ok here goes for a list of websites you should check out before you really get into your search for great ideas and companies.

Escape The City
3 Beards (and their job site Unicorn.io)
Startacus
Angel List
f6s
Workinstartups

There are literally thousands of people who would like your skill set so just a case of finding them.

If you want some personal insight (as I've just completed a round of 'lets get employed by a startup despite having no experience inside a startup' then let me know)

 

[Paul Murray]

One of my clients used http://workinstartups.com/ to source some of their employees.

 

[garyk]

@toastking has the perfect list there. In fact be better if you can get yourself in person to events that 3beards organise like silicon drinkabout and don't pitch me bro. Those events are on meetup.com along with things like hacker news, there is a ton of stuff going on the city. Great people there and nothing like your typical 'business networking' meetings which I find dry and desperate.

 

[toastking]

@toastking has the perfect list there. In fact be better if you can get yourself in person to events that 3beards organise like silicon drinkabout and don't pitch me bro.

What can I say? I've got skills!

In all honesty it's come from around 4 years of work to know the list is good. There is a London bias to one or two (a la 3 beards but even they are spreading silicon drink about around the world) but most of them encourage international membership

 

[sezar]

Dude, just apply for a job in a startup that you like. If you are good, you may end up with a higher salary plus all the fun.
Pre-revenue startups will compensate you with a lot of shares but a small amount of cash. In post-revenue companies or well funded teams it will be the other way round.

 

[iwannabe]

Rather than apply for a job,, why not look for a suitable business you enjoy to join as a technical co-founder? Check out https://www.cofounderslab.com for such opportunities.