Hello, my name is Prashant. In this blog post, I want to share my story with you. While I don’t have 10 or 15 years of experience, I’ve learned some valuable lessons in my short professional journey. If you’re someone starting out in your career or confused about whether to choose a startup or a corporate job, my experience might give you some perspective.
The Start of My Career
I graduated in 2023 and began working in a startup with my college friends. It was a great learning experience, but like many startups, it faced financial challenges. When payments got delayed, I realized how important financial stability is for staying motivated at work. Despite my determination and focus, I had to leave and look for other opportunities.
During my job search, I discovered something surprising about myself—I’m not someone who fits neatly into one specialized role. I have multiple interests and skills, but this can be overwhelming at times. Companies often asked me, “What’s your specialization?” and I struggled to give them a clear answer. I enjoy learning and working on different things, which made it hard to narrow my focus.
Eventually, I landed a role as a social media manager in another startup. And here I am, sharing my journey with you.
Why Startups Are Unique
I didn’t consciously choose to work in startups—it just happened. But looking back, I think it was the right path for me. Startups are very different from corporate companies. In a startup, you’re not just restricted to one role. You have to wear multiple hats, which means you’re constantly learning new things. For someone like me, who loves to stay busy and learn, this environment is perfect.
For example, in my current role, I don’t just manage social media. I also work on brand awareness, founder positioning, client communication, and understanding the market. Before this job, I never thought I’d be talking to clients or convincing them to buy a product. But now, I’ve learned how to do it, and it’s a valuable skill I’ll carry forward.
This kind of exposure is rare in corporate companies, where roles are usually well-defined, and your tasks are limited to your job description. Startups push you out of your comfort zone, and that’s where growth happens.
The Challenges of Startups
Of course, startups come with their own set of challenges. There’s often a lack of structure, financial instability, and high-pressure situations. You might have to work long hours and take on tasks that you’re not familiar with. But all of this teaches you resilience and adaptability—qualities that are invaluable in any career.
For me, the biggest challenge has been balancing my career path. I graduated in 3D animation, but now I’m working in social media. Sometimes I wonder if I’ve drifted too far from my original path. But then I remind myself that skills are transferable, and I can always pursue my passion for 3D alongside my current work. Life is a journey, and it’s okay to explore different paths.
What I’ve Learned So Far
If you’re starting out, I highly recommend working in a startup. It accelerates your growth and teaches you lessons you won’t find in textbooks. However, that doesn’t mean corporate jobs are bad—they offer stability and often higher pay. Both paths have their pros and cons, and it ultimately comes down to what aligns with your goals and personality.
For me, working in startups has been a rollercoaster ride, but it’s one I’m grateful for. It’s taught me the importance of learning, adapting, and staying open to new opportunities.
Final Thoughts
To anyone reading this, remember: your career is a journey, not a destination. Whether you choose a startup or a corporate job, what matters most is your willingness to learn and grow. Success is not defined by the path you take but by the effort you put in.
If you enjoyed this blog, feel free to share your thoughts in the comments. You can also connect with me on social media—I’d love to hear your story!
