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Ask HN: FAANG vs. Future Unicorn Startup

2 points by ganstyles ↗ HN
Thoughts? I don't have experience at startups or FAANGs, but have an offer at a startup that's likely to be big. At the same time, I have a job offer making more money than I've ever made in my entire life at a FAANG.

I'm ancient, hit my 30s. Would love a big exit in several years with a startup, but would appreciate the stability of being with a FAANG. Need to decide in the next few days I think. If I were 25, I would do startup all the way. Maybe.

What would you do: 30% chance of a big startup exit with good salary (200k+) vs 100% chance of 400-500ish per year with FAANG in total package? No kids, if that helps.

4 comments

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lrome
You should first think what your goals are. The 30% chance is a bit optimistic, take a look at the first lesson on How to start a startup https://startupclass.samaltman.com If your goal is to make money then joining FAANG is the safer path. To reach unicorn level in a startup is always risky long shot, unless you already know you are joining a rocket that is on a market dominance path and you are getting a great equity deal. There are plenty of ex-FAANG starting startups so you could have a good chance of joining a couple of years down the road. Good luck!
drenvuk
I can't say whether you're overestimating the startup changes without knowing what it is but your stock is usually not worth as much as you think it is. tldroptions.io may help.

I also don't know what market forces might do to any of the FAANGS but odds are not much. So I'm betting you'll at least have 5 years of pay before any funny layoffs happen if I'm being pessimistic, that's at least $1.5 million if spent wisely.

Do you think your options or stock or ownership or growth at the startup is worth the cash that goes right into your bank account? I can't tell you one way or another. What I do know is that most people are going to FAANGS because their startup dreams die with lower pay, less benefits and general failure. I don't think the pendulum has swung back in the other direction yet even though pie is getting sliced thinner every quarter.

I would say do the FAANG if you're on the fence. Cash is nice.

antoinevg
Unless you are a founder or investor even a massive exit won't cover the money you would have made if you took the FAANG offer.

Employees don't make money working for startups (anymore).

tyzerdak
I would choose faang, but I'm not risky guy.