DC

Dalton Caldwell

11/02/23

@ Y Combinator

Technical co-founders and early employees often get exploited and undervalued in startups, leading to unfair equity splits.

MS

Michael Seibel

11/02/23

@ Y Combinator

It's common for technical employees to receive significantly less equity than their non-technical counterparts, which can lead to feelings of being ripped off.

MS

Michael Seibel

11/02/23

@ Y Combinator

In early-stage startups, technical employees may find themselves doing the work of a co-founder while receiving only 1% or less equity, which is not a fair arrangement.

MS

Michael Seibel

11/02/23

@ Y Combinator

If you're a key engineer in a scaling company, consider whether your equity reflects your contributions and if you would benefit significantly if the company succeeds.

MS

Michael Seibel

11/02/23

@ Y Combinator

As a Googler, if you're working excessively hard while your superiors enjoy substantial benefits, you might be in a bad deal; however, if you have a good work-life balance, it could be worth it.

MS

Michael Seibel

11/02/23

@ Y Combinator

College students often do not receive equity and are typically seen as interns who do the bulk of the technical work without recognition.

MS

Michael Seibel

11/02/23

@ Y Combinator

Evaluate whether you have a seat at the decision-making table; if business leaders are making all the decisions without your input, it may indicate exploitation.

MS

Michael Seibel

11/02/23

@ Y Combinator

If you're working significantly harder than your business counterparts, it may be a sign of being exploited, especially if they are not contributing equally to the startup's success.

MS

Michael Seibel

11/02/23

@ Y Combinator

Trust your instincts about whether the company is working; as a technical contributor, you have a unique perspective on the company's potential for success.

YC

Y Combinator Cast

11/02/23

@ Y Combinator

If you're doing all the work and it's painfully obvious that things aren't working, you might be exploited.

YC

Y Combinator Cast

11/02/23

@ Y Combinator

Don't let others finesse you into thinking that a small equity share is a great deal, especially if the company isn't growing or generating revenue.

YC

Y Combinator Cast

11/02/23

@ Y Combinator

Gaslighting can occur when you're convinced that you're getting a good deal despite clear evidence to the contrary.

YC

Y Combinator Cast

11/02/23

@ Y Combinator

A sign of a good work culture is when everyone feels they're getting a great deal and is equally invested in the company's success.

YC

Y Combinator Cast

11/02/23

@ Y Combinator

If you're learning and growing faster than your peers in larger companies, you might be in a great situation at a startup.

YC

Y Combinator Cast

11/02/23

@ Y Combinator

You can't blame others for a failing project if you have a seat at the table and equal equity; you share responsibility for the outcome.

YC

Y Combinator Cast

11/02/23

@ Y Combinator

If you're upfront about the challenges of a job and it turns out to be as hard as expected, you can't claim exploitation; you made that choice.

YC

Y Combinator Cast

11/02/23

@ Y Combinator

To assess if you're in a bad situation, consider the opportunity cost of staying versus exploring other job options.

YC

Y Combinator Cast

11/02/23

@ Y Combinator

Taking ownership of your work can lead to being given more responsibility and a seat at the decision-making table.

YC

Y Combinator Cast

11/02/23

@ Y Combinator

Sometimes, you may need to take a step back in your career to move forward, such as switching to a job with better compensation and opportunities.

YC

Y Combinator Cast

11/02/23

@ Y Combinator

Technical people should know their worth and seek environments where they are appreciated and valued for their skills.

YC

Y Combinator Cast

11/02/23

@ Y Combinator

Business leaders should be honest and upfront with their teams to foster excitement and commitment, ensuring that talented individuals feel valued.

How To NOT Get Screwed As A Software Engineer

Takeaways