If you have just gotten a job offer from a company that is rapidly expanding, your first response is likely excitement.

But don’t lose sight of what the company’s growth will mean in terms of their expectations for you. As stated in an article for The Muse, you need to prepare for a different kind of work environment than one in which the company is stable in where it is.

Be Ready for a More Personal Workplace

If you are joining a small startup, it is going to be quite the adjustment from some giant organization. You will likely be working shoulder to shoulder with all members of the staff.

This won’t be like the corporation where some people will only be names in emails to you.

Can You Take the Initiative?

The smaller company means you won’t always have someone higher up whose job it is to double-check your work.

If you are used to having a variety of managers to go to if you encounter a snag, it can be an adjustment when you are expected to be in the driver’s seat on your own.

You have to be comfortable making the decisions needed to overcome obstacles.

Are You Okay Taking a Gamble?

The thing with any startup is that they have not yet proven if they have what it takes to last. So while that initial growth phase may look like it has tons of momentum, that could also fizzle out.

If it does, do you have a backup plan? And are you comfortable taking a chance on an unproven opportunity? For some people, passion is enough to convince them to take the risk. But others need the guarantee that they will still be getting a paycheck two years from now.

Even if none of these factors deter you, it is still vital to do your research before joining a startup. Nobody wants the rug pulled out from under them right as they are getting situated, so ensure that you feel confident in the company’s cause and future before signing on.

For more on what to expect from a fast-growing company, check out the article from The Muse here.

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