Work at a startup

Pick the right opportunity for you

Lots of startups ask to list you as a collaborator, intern or expert. Some even write full essays about why you’re a good fit as a co-founder. But remember: your performance doesn’t matter as much as the value they are getting from using you.

Find a job at a startup.

Companies value collaboration the same way they value financial contributions. When we ask people to sign waivers and give up their non-compete clauses, they’re happy to do so. So make sure you are helping companies.

Sign a contract

There is no cost to you for signing a contract, but making sure that it covers all aspects of the job description will make it easier for your manager to use you and you to value the gig. You can sign a non-compete with a top lawyer or an angel investor if you need help.

I recommend not signing a non-compete clause unless you are sure about it. Not only does it make it harder for you to change jobs, but it gives the company something to think about if you do leave, which makes them think twice about hiring someone else.

Ideally, it will be in the form of a non-compete between you and the company, but some employees have created non-compete clauses with the hiring manager for all new hires. So be sure that you are signing your rights away only for the…