Working at a Startup

Happy Wednesday, Besties!

We’ve all had “boss moments” we’ll never forget. But Jamie’s takes the cake. This episode is all about working at a startup. At Jamie’s startup, her new manager emailed her a literal manual… about herself. As in: “Here’s how to work with me.” And truthfully, we’ll give that boss one thing: they were at least trying. (But listen to the episode to hear where they went wrong)

Speaking of listening, pour yourself a midweek cup of AI-enabled coffee and hit “play,” because this week, we’ve got startups, corporate cringe, and questions and comments (respectfully, of course).

In this episode:

• Intro Story: Jamie’s boss that was like a plot twist from Black Mirror: HR Edition (and lessons for everyone to take away - and if you’re looking for more “mutual” onboarding forms, you can get them by signing up for Ashley’s Manager Method weekly email).

• Corporate Cringe Speak: There’s a phrase that people love to say when they don’t want to deal with something now (and it doesn’t sound very startup-y).

• Hot Topic: So You’re Working at a Startup… or Thinking About It
  Startups can be thrilling, fast-paced, and full of promise… or absolute chaos with a Slack channel called “Secret Support Group.” Whether you're applying to one or running one, here’s what to know (including tips for candidates/employees (real questions to ask!) and founder/leaders (be honest and think about what you’re expecting!).

• Questions & Comments: Our tips on startups, and the startup backstory behind “Luke” in Ashley’s videos (you can see more on Luke’s company’s website here).

Discussion Guide – For Your Next Podcast Group or Team Chat:

• “Manual” Labor: What are things others should know about working with you? Do those also help the other person work well?

• Startup Culture: What’s the good and not-good about working at a start-up?

• Follow Up - Choose your own path! (Because we don’t want to the owner of the “Choose Your Own Adventure” trademark)

  • If you’re a startup: What’s something we could adjust or do differently - without sacrificing our mission or the results we’re aiming for?

  • If you’re not a startup: Are there any “startup-y” ideas or ways of working you think our teams might enjoy or benefit from trying out?

ChatGPT Prompts of the Week

• What should I know about working in [insert your role] in a startup?

• How can a leadership team drive progress on its goals without burning people out?

• If I were to create a startup, what kind of product or service would I likely build — and why?

That’s a wrap for this week, Besties. Whether you’re startup-bound or cozy in corporate, non-profit, government, hospitals, or wherever you’re getting through the day, just remember: we’re all just trying to figure it out - one handbook, buzzword, or AI blanket at a time.

Cheers!
- Your HR Besties

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