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Startups

A startup is an entrepreneurial venture designed to address a specific business need through the creation of novel products or services. Startups are focused on innovation, growth, and scale. Funding for a startup can be sourced through ‘angel investors,’ venture capital firms, the founders themselves, or crowdfunding. Startups are prominent in the technology sector but can emerge across all industries.  

There are three stages of a startup: early, expansion, and mature 

Professional roles for a start-up will vary based on the start-up stage, size of company, and industry. As startups scale their business, they may be open to creating new roles for candidates with relevant skills-sets and who are a culture fit.  

Skills to develop for success in this field

  • Analytical thinking 
  • Creativity and innovation 
  • Flexibility
  • Initiative
  • Project management
  • Resilience
  • Some technical skills may be required (Excel, programming languages, SEO, etc.)
  • Teamwork 

Online resources specific to the industry

    Vault is a comprehensive resource for information on what it is like to work within an industry, company or profession.
    For specific information about Start-ups, go to:
    Vault > Careers > Industries > All Industries > Business Administration > Entrepreneurship 
      Vault > Careers > Industries > All Industries > Finance > Venture Capital

Job posting and other career informational sites relevant to the field: 

Key information or knowledge for this field

  • Students interested in software engineering, software development, artificial intelligence, UI/UX, product design etc. may want to consider creating a portfolio of prior work and projects. Common portfolio websites include Github, Wix, Squarespace and more!
  • The hiring timeline varies as startups typically hire for immediate need versus recruiting in advance.
  • Students should do extensive research on the company’s product and competitors, so that they can provide recommendations, discuss strategy, and show that they believe in the company’s mission and values during an interview process.
  • Because startups often grow rapidly and undergo frequent internal changes, many startups seek candidates that are willing to take on tasks/roles outside of their initial job description.  
    Failure is a normal part of the entrepreneurial process. Internship or job experience at a startup that has failed or no longer exists is still worth highlighting in application materials and in an interview setting.   
  • Working at a start-up may provide less job security and stability than at a well-established company. However, if a startup starts to gain success, the internal opportunities for increased leadership and responsibilities can grow quickly in comparison to an established organization.

Relevant student groups and professional organizations

Northwestern Departments/Offices:

Northwestern Student Organizations and Competitions: