Startup Founder claims he’s looking for job & no one is answering, says ‘I’m just floating’
The life of a startup founder is often romanticized as a thrilling adventure filled with innovation, risk-taking, and success. However, the reality is far from it. Many startup founders face challenges, setbacks, and ultimately, failure. One such founder, who chose to remain anonymous, has shared his harrowing tale of being unable to find a job despite his best efforts.
In an interview with a leading news publication, the founder revealed that he had shut down his startup when his co-founders exited, leaving him with no choice but to look for a job. However, he’s been met with rejection at every turn. “I’m not asking for a CXO role…I care deeply about my work…But still, I’m stuck. Too ‘founder-y’ for structured roles, not domain-specific enough for niche roles,” he lamented.
The founder’s story is a stark reminder that even those who have achieved success in the startup world can face an uphill battle when trying to transition to a new role. His experience serves as a cautionary tale for aspiring entrepreneurs, highlighting the importance of having a plan B and building a network beyond the startup ecosystem.
The founder’s struggles began when his co-founders decided to leave the startup, citing differences in vision and direction. With no clear succession plan in place, the founder was left to pick up the pieces and try to salvage what was left. After shutting down the startup, he set his sights on finding a new job, but he’s been met with a resounding silence.
“I’ve applied to over 20 jobs, and not even a single interview call,” he revealed. “I’ve tried networking, attending conferences, and reaching out to people in my industry, but nothing seems to be working.” The founder’s frustration is palpable, and it’s clear that he’s struggling to come to terms with his new reality.
The founder’s situation is not unique. Many startup founders face similar challenges when trying to transition to a new role. The problem lies in the fact that, as founders, they are often seen as too “big” or too “ambitious” for structured roles, but not domain-specific enough for niche roles.
“I’ve been told that I’m too used to being in charge, too used to making decisions, and too used to being the face of the company,” the founder explained. “But I’m willing to learn, I’m willing to take orders, and I’m willing to work hard. I just want a chance to prove myself.”
The founder’s story raises important questions about the way we perceive and value startup founders. Are we too quick to dismiss them as being too “founder-y” or too “big” for certain roles? Do we recognize the skills and experience that they bring to the table, or do we assume that they are only good for starting companies, not working for them?
The answer, of course, is that it’s a mix of both. While startup founders do bring unique skills and experiences to the table, they are not always well-suited for every role. However, this doesn’t mean that they are not worth considering for certain positions.
As the founder’s story highlights, there is a need for greater understanding and empathy when it comes to startup founders who are looking for a new job. We need to recognize that they are not just “founders” but human beings who have skills, experience, and a desire to contribute.
The founder’s story is a powerful reminder that even in the face of failure, there is always hope. He may not have found a new job yet, but he is not giving up. He is continuing to apply, to network, and to reach out to people in his industry.
As he said, “I’m just floating in between, but I’m not giving up. I’m determined to find a job that I love, and I’m willing to do whatever it takes to make it happen.”
The story of the failed Indian startup founder is a powerful reminder that even in the face of adversity, there is always hope. It’s a story that highlights the importance of perseverance, resilience, and determination.
