I've always had a longing for early-stage startups. But then, was what I wanted simply to be in an Early Stage? I believe the reason I was drawn to early-stage startups was because of growth potential. By growth potential, I mean an ideal scenario where both my personal growth and the company's growth happen simultaneously. So, does every early-stage startup have growth potential? My answer to this would naturally be "No."

Early-Stage Startups and Growth Potential Are Different

The word "early" in "early-stage startup" may just be a word. Growth and being in the early stage may not always be linked.

When I think of early-stage startups, the image that comes to mind is a workplace where passion drives people, pursuing a culture that large corporations can't have, and where everyone influences and motivates each other in positive ways. However, "early stage" and a growth-oriented culture don't always align with each other. Do most early-stage startups actually have a motivating growth culture? That’s a question worth considering.

Even early-stage startups can have many of the same issues that arise in other companies, such as micromanagement, problems between colleagues and superiors, and other common challenges (in fact, there might even be more complex issues). Some early-stage startups may even have a highly vertical culture. Additionally, some early-stage startups may not have much growth potential at all. It’s also important to remember that a company's brand and its corporate culture are two different things. We should avoid assuming a company’s culture simply based on its branding.

This led me to think again about the most important values when choosing a company. Which companies are more likely to align with my values and where can I have meaningful interactions?

Companies with Good Corporate Culture

Do companies that advertise their culture as being truly great exist? If so, what do the actual employees think about it? If a culture is misused, could it not become a hollow, superficial concept?

So, what defines a good culture? I believe there is no single answer. In fact, I think it’s nearly impossible to quantify something so abstract. If culture is measured in a quantitative way and used to create standards, it could result in an unhealthy work environment. Personally, I believe that companies with a natural, authentic culture are the ones that have a good corporate culture.

For people who place great importance on motivation, the greatest sense of value in their work comes when they feel they are doing meaningful work with great colleagues in a great company.

There’s a saying that “you only learn from failure.” But perhaps a small success is better. The path to success might be long, but if a company achieves results through failure, and it’s a company that reflects on what is truly meaningful and strives for it, I believe that company—whether small or large—is a good company. I’ll conclude with this thought.