Understanding startups, scale-ups, and SMBs
Let’s first start by understanding the difference between startups, scale-ups and SMBs:
- Startup: New businesses focused on innovation and growth, often in tech, aiming to disrupt industries. Fuelled by venture capital, startups offer rapid growth and high risks and rewards.
- Scale-up: Mature startups with stable funding and revenue, focusing on scaling operations. Defined by TechLeap.nl as companies with 20 percent annual growth over three years and at least 10 employees.
- Small and Medium-Sized Businesses (SMBs): Stable businesses with defined hierarchies and long-term growth, offering more stability.
Why work for a Dutch startup?
So, why should you work for a Dutch startup? Here are a few reasons why this may be the next step in your career:
- Innovative culture: Dutch startups value an innovation-first mindset, inclusivity, and collaboration, appealing to creative problem-solvers. The English language is common, attracting international talent.
- Career growth: Startups often have lean teams, providing diverse responsibilities and rapid career development. Over 30 percent of Dutch startup founders are under 35, fostering a forward-thinking environment.
- Flexible work: Dutch startups often prioritise flexibility, with adjustable schedules and remote work options.
Challenges of startup life
While there are many pros when it comes to working for a startup, there are a few challenges you may come across as well, such as:
- Job instability: Startups often depend on venture capital, meaning less job security. With around 20 percent closing in five years, stability seekers might prefer scale-ups or SMBs.
- Long hours: Startups can demand significant commitment, with employees directly impacting growth, potentially affecting work-life balance.
- Constant change: Roles can evolve rapidly, which can make them appealing or overwhelming depending on your preference for predictability.
Choosing the right stage: Startup, scale-up, or SMB?
Before applying to work at a startup, try to determine what stage of startup will suit your life and your career goals best. They all have different things to offer!
- Early-stage startup: An early-stage startup suits risk-takers who enjoy impact and influence. They offer equity but come with high risk due to funding uncertainty.
- Scale-up: A scale-up balances innovation with stability, offering strong growth opportunities with less risk.
- SMB: An SMB is ideal for those valuing stability and clear paths, focusing on long-term growth.
Finding Dutch startup jobs
Now that you have determined what kind of startup suits your personal situation best, how do you go about finding a job at one in the Netherlands? Here are some tips to consider in your startup job hunt:
- Job boards: Use specialised boards like startup.jobs and wellfound.com.
- Startup platforms: Check TechLeap.nl and Silicon Canals for company mentions.
- Networking: Join startup groups on Meetup, attend events like StartupAmsterdam, and connect with communities such as the Dutch Startup Association.
Pro tip: Tailor your resume to highlight versatility, innovation, and cross-functional skills - a startup's prized qualities.
Is a Dutch startup right for you?
The Netherlands invests heavily in its startup scene, ranking third in Europe's Startup Ecosystem Index and attracting 1,6 billion euros in venture capital in 2022. Joining a Dutch startup offers opportunities for innovation and shaping a company’s growth. Assess your risk tolerance, goals and work style before diving in. Whether you prefer an early-stage startup, scale-up or SMB, the Dutch market has options for you!