I’ve got a tough choice to make. After a long job search I’m now in the final interview stage with two companies for BDR positions. One is a well-known business software company that’s been around for years. The other is a new AI startup I don’t know much about.
The startup is offering $80k base salary which is higher. But the established company has a great reputation even if they pay less. They both sell to businesses but in different areas.
I care a lot about work-life balance and told both companies this. They seemed OK with it. But I’m still not sure which to pick if I get offers from both.
Has anyone worked at a big software company or an early-stage startup? What are the pros and cons? I’d love to hear thoughts on which might be better for starting a sales career. Thanks!
I’ve been in your shoes before, and it’s definitely a tough call. From my experience working at both a large software company and an early-stage startup, there are pros and cons to each.
At the established company, I found more structure, better training programs, and a clearer career path. The name recognition helped open doors when prospecting, but the pace was slower and there was more red tape.
On the other hand, the startup environment was dynamic and fast-paced, offering a chance to wear multiple hats and influence product development directly. Although the equity potential was enticing, the frequent strategic pivots and occasional chaos could pose challenges.
For work-life balance, the established company typically offered more predictability, whereas the startup demanded intense bursts of effort interspersed with flexibility. Ultimately, the best choice will depend on your risk tolerance and career aspirations. If you’re seeking rapid learning and don’t mind the occasional instability, the startup might be the better fit. However, if you prefer a more structured environment, the established company could be the safer bet.
yo i’ve been in both. big companies = stable but boring af. startups = wild ride but u might strike gold. tbh, $80k base is sweet. but watch out, startups can be crazy hours n stress. if u want chill, go big co. if ur ready for chaos n maybe big $$$, startup’s ur jam. btw whats the equity like at the startup? that could be huge
I’ve walked in your shoes before, and it’s not an easy decision. From my experience, the established company route can be a solid foundation for your career. You’ll likely get more structured training and a clearer progression path, which can be invaluable when you’re just starting out. Plus, that brand name on your resume opens doors down the line.
That said, don’t underestimate the potential of a startup. The higher base salary is tempting, sure, but the real draw is the opportunity for rapid growth and learning. You’ll wear many hats and potentially have a bigger impact on the company’s direction. It’s a sink-or-swim environment that can really accelerate your skills development.
Work-life balance can be tricky at both, honestly. Big companies often have more formal policies, but startups can offer more flexibility if you prove yourself. It really comes down to the specific team and your manager.
In the end, trust your gut. Which company’s mission excites you more? Where do you see yourself thriving? Remember, your first job won’t be your last - both paths can lead to great things if you put in the effort.
Having spent years in tech sales, I’ve encountered both environments in various capacities. At an established company, the predictability of structured processes and well-defined training can be immensely valuable, particularly when developing foundational skills in a competitive market. The recognizable name can also open doors for professional growth.
Conversely, a high-growth startup offers a dynamic setting where you can influence operational practices and accelerate personal development. However, this often comes with the challenge of unpredictability and potentially extended work hours. Ultimately, aligning with a team whose culture and vision resonate with you can be the decisive factor.