Questions

My "pay the bills" job is a Financial Analyst, but my passion for the past 5+ years has been my startup. I've learned so many different skills running my own business from project management, SEO, sales, advertising, growth strategies, programming, localization, etc. but if my startup fails would companies hire / be interested in me for the knowledge I've acquired? I feel I am very knowledgeable in all different aspects of online startups, and can be very helpful to other companies; however, I also get the feeling that businesses would see my failure in my startup as a flaw.

As a four-time entrepreneur, three of which were new startups, I can relate to your dilemma. If you can answer the question about why you are no longer involved with the startup in a way that is positive and makes sense, it's probable you will not be penalized. It's also possible to list your skills on a Resume or LinkedIn Profile in such a way as to focus more on highlighting your skills while focusing less on the companies you worked for or owned. Look up the career definitions of the skills you've acquired and decide whether you meet the professional expectations of those skills, if so, then list the skill and give specific examples of how those skills were used. Remember these things during the interview process as well. Besides applying for positions at well-established companies, consider applying at startups seeking the kind of talent and skills you've acquired and developed - they may be more likely to understand your career track.
As others have noted upon answering your question, I also find that the entrepreneurial experience opens more doors than it closes.
If you would like to set up a call with me to discuss startup opportunity sources, or wording of your Resume/LinkedIn profiles, or other follow-up questions, I am available.


Answered 8 years ago

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