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Hopping too many startups in a row?

20 points 15characters | 1 comments | 21 Oct 24 01:07 UTC | HN request time: 0s | source

The last 3 positions I've held have been SWE at relatively small startups. Within 2 years of being at those companies, big changes occurred prompting me to hop for job security (didn't secure next round of funding, C-suite got replaced, etc). For me, this is the nature of startups- fast turnaround and turnover. I thought this was normal until my last interview where a recruiter was looking for stronger explanations as to why I haven't held a position for 3-4 years recently. Being clear that it wasn't a positive sign to them. Is it really that strange, or were they maybe used to bigger company culture and expectations? Not going to risk my own security riding a sinking ship.
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shehjar ◴[21 Oct 24 03:14 UTC] No.41900378[source]▶
The recruiter perspective has some relevance too.

A question in their minds is whether candidates have the tenacity to stick through ups and downs of a company. This happens very frequently and I guess the employers are trying to gauge whether people will up and leave the moment things get difficult.

it may merit some nuanced explanation when such a question comes up.

replies(2): >>41902458 #>>41911276 #
1. jbs789 ◴[21 Oct 24 09:59 UTC] No.41902458[source]▶
I think this is an important perspective. That is, think about why the recruiter is asking and focus on how you address those concerns. With the experience you have now, you should be well placed to ask questions early to find the right fit for the long run. (Or at least that’s an angle I’d consider!)