Ask HN: work for Apple or continue bootstrapping my startup
I need HN's advice. I have been bootstrapping a first startup that failed. Now I am starting a new one, but no income in sight.
On the other hand, Apple is offering me a high-paying job as a senior developer. Because it's Apple and their working conditions are crazy, plus all the secrecy, there is just no way to pursue a bootstrapped startup on the side. For Apple, you're all in or you are out.
What should I do?
[kept anonymous for obvious reasons]
Published in 2011, this chronicle by @throwawayapple details the mechanics of building a profitable, self-funded business without venture backing.
The community focused on B2B customer acquisition channels, cold email vs SEO distribution, and balancing full-time employment with side-project development.
Because you said "no income in sight", and it is a "high-paying job" I would say go work for Apple. That way you will
1) Get more experience, that will prove valuable if you ever found another startup
2) Broaden your connections and networking. That is extremely valuable if you found a startup later.
3) Save some cash with your "high-paying job" so that later it would be safer for you to pursue your enterpreneur dreams.
Yes, that would mean delaying your dream of becoming an enterpreneur and startup owner, but not necessarily give it up completely, and it has advantages if you can delay your gratification...
I went through a very similar stage like this over the past summer. I was trying to boot strap a number of startups that ultimately didnt pan out, and I was finally working on one that was making some income (but still ramen status). Around June, I was offered a job working with a VC firm, which I ultimately took. So far, I think I have made the right decision. While this is also an "all-in" position, I have found that the few free moments I have can be used to think clearly on my next ventures I plan to build. Dont underestimate the stress that will evaporate when you have steady income.
Not a hacker by any means, but I think any entrepreneur should have the same qualities.
If you are even asking this question, especially for others to decide for you, you should just take the Apple job.
The start-up will only be a success if you KNOW it will. You cant be predisposed to having any doubts. You seem to lack the confidence and determination required to be an entrepreneur. I'm sorry if it seems I am being harsh, but it takes more than an idea to become successful with something like this.
This is just an assumption but I assume you applied for the job at Apple and must have had some sort of interview to know that its a high paying gig. If you've gone that far, coupled with what others have already echoed, Apple should be the right choice for you.
A startup business is supposed to make money. Don't get caught up in the "oh, we'll worry about revenues later" nonsense.
If you have no idea how your startup will make money, get the job at Apple.