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  • How to Compare Job Offers: Startup vs. Established Firm?

    Bondan S

    Member

    Updated: Mar 18, 2025
    Views: 2.0K

    Alright, I’m low-key freaking out. Two job offers. Two. And I can’t decide if I want to YOLO into a crypto rollercoaster or play it safe like a responsible adult. HELP.

    Option 1: Layer 1 blockchain startup. It’s like… all vibes. Super early, zero structure, but maaaybe moon potential? I’m picturing me coding in a hoodie while Elon retweets us. But also… what if it crashes and burns in 6 months? 🚨

    Option 2: Big Layer 2 company. Stable AF. Benefits. 401k. But honestly? I’m terrified I’ll turn into a corporate zombie. Like, am I signing up to be a spreadsheet jockey forever? 💀

    For context: 2 years in blockchain. My brain says “take the money and chill,” but my inner degenerate is screaming “FOMO! BUILD THE FUTURE!” 😩

    If you’ve been here:

    • Did you regret going safe? Or wish you’d avoided the startup dumpster fire?

    • What’s the actual upside of joining early-stage crypto? (Besides “learning” and “stress ulcers.”)

    • Red flags I’m too hyped to see?

    Pls send wisdom

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  • Shubhada Pande

    Community Administrator • 1mo

    I’ve worked with both Layer 1 and Layer 2 protocols, and I’ve faced a similar decision in my career. The key difference lies in the environment and growth trajectory each offers. Startups, especially early-stage Layer 1s, give you the chance to wear multiple hats, work closely with the core team, and have a direct impact on the project’s direction. However, they come with higher risks—uncertain funding, evolving product-market fit, and less job security.

    If I were in your shoes, I’d consider where I want to grow. If you thrive in fast-paced environments, enjoy solving undefined problems, and can handle the volatility, the Layer 1 startup could be a game-changer for your skills and career. On the other hand, if you prefer structured learning, clear processes, and stability, the Layer 2 company would offer more security and polished growth paths.

    Also, compare the compensation carefully—tokens from the startup might have high potential but could lack immediate liquidity. Stability vs. high-risk, high-reward—that’s the real trade-off.

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  • Shubhada Pande

    Community Administrator • 1mo

    If you wan to understand, how to evaluate token based compensation, you can read discussion thread https://artofblockchain.club/discussion/how-to-evaluate-a-job-offer-with-token-based-compensation

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