Starting at a Startup
by Sterling J. Scott, Marketing Communications Coordinator, MHI | @mhi_sterling
Young professionals in the business world have had exposure to technology and resources that other generations have not. This has resulted in new ways of thinking, solving problems, and communicating. Young professionals have the ability to leverage these things with their technological capabilities and outside perspective to help companies evolve. However, for many, it is hard to present and implement ideas from the bottom of the corporate hierarchy. People with experience tend to listen to other people with experience, not just because it’s traditional business culture, but also because many business processes call for it.
The startup has emerged as a powerhouse in the business world, leading innovation, primarily because they are born from new ideas and foster environments where new ideas are encouraged from everyone. This increasingly popular, alternative work environment is great for young professionals. They offer the opportunity to take on more responsibilities, provide greater input into business activities, as well as grow quickly within an organization. Though often times offering lower pay and less job security while calling for a high level of commitment, they are great places to grow as a professional and quickly advance in a career. Startups also allow young professionals and students to develop businesses from their own ideas rather than carrying those ideas into another business.
StartUpHire, VentureLoop, & Startuply are great sites for finding jobs at startups. Mashable also has a list of sites for finding startup jobs. There is a great guide on the Forbes website on how to find startups. For starting a business, the U.S. Small Business Association (SBA) offers some great resources. StartupNation is another great source.
The key to finding or starting a startup is networking. Professionals have to connect with colleagues and peers, attend events, and seek startup recruiters. To connect with other young supply chain and material handling professionals, join MHI’s Young Professionals Network (YPN) and connect with MHI on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.
