If you interview with a startup co-founder and they say they're a "work hard, play hard" company, should I run the other way?

Anonymous

January 21,2022 at 9:19PM UTC

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If your interview with the Co-founder and they say they're a "work hard, play hard" company, should I run the other way?

I want WLB and not be a slave to my work. I didn't inquire more as to what did they mean by that, as it can be "relative". How would I tactfully approach asking what WLB is like in a startup? (I'm familiar that all starts are hyper growth, but there has to be some that care about their employees wellness!).

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AnonymousJanuary 21,2022 at 9:24PM UTC
I would start by asking the interviewer how the balance the demands of the job. That might lead to an opportunity to ask what a typical day might look like for the allicant/new hire.
AnonymousJanuary 22,2022 at 2:36AM UTC
Yes, it would be very telling if the interviewer would share their personal experience in balance while working there.
AnonymousJanuary 25,2022 at 1:30PM UTC
You could ask what they mean by "play hard." if the answer is about ping pong tables in the office, then the work-life balance is probably pretty skewed towards work. If the answer is that they mean you bring your whole self to work while you're there but have your own time when you're not, it might be better.
AnonymousJanuary 25,2022 at 1:40PM UTC
In the next steps of the hiring process you should inquire as to what that means. I wouldn’t run away from the unknown. Working for a smaller company can have its perks, but it can have its cons too. Of course, it depends on the role as well. If you are going in as a senior leader with stock options, then you would expect to work more than an hourly position. Understanding that piece may bring more clarity to your day to day functions.
AnonymousJanuary 25,2022 at 2:13PM UTC
That's a bit of a red flag to me. Sounds like 'bro'' culture.
Madam anon663January 25,2022 at 5:05PM UTC
Run.
AnonymousJanuary 25,2022 at 2:45PM UTC
Yes, run away.
Beverly RuyleJanuary 25,2022 at 4:49PM UTC
That is a cliche phrase open to interpretation. It's a startup so the founders are living it and breathing it. My instinct is people wear many hats and while they are at work, they work hard and at a pace. I'm betting there is a lot of overtime here. Ask them what their expectation is of your time - late nights, weekends. Also note, working hard is not the same as working smart.
BeaBoss750792January 25,2022 at 5:12PM UTC
From my experience with startups (YMMV), “work hard, play hard” pretty much always meant working long hours and alcohol and/or video game-centered “play”. e.g. Everyone will have a beer at their desk while working at 7pm.
Ruth A. Ford, PHRJanuary 25,2022 at 7:01PM UTC
I will preface this by saying I've never worked for a start-up...but, working in the world of HR, I've heard lots of cringe-worthy stories. So, when I hear "work hard/play hard," all I can think of is long hours, high expectations and low structure...not a good combination if you're looking for work/life balance IMHO. Good luck! :-)
AnonymousJanuary 25,2022 at 8:04PM UTC
It's a holdover from the .com Era
It's now outdated and a way to try and come across as cool when you don't know what to say.
Saying this indicates the person doesn't have a clue.
Heather L.January 26,2022 at 3:05PM UTC
I now work for a start-up, although the company had been operating for about 1 1/2 years before I came on board. Those words were never spoken to me, but that was how I found myself describing it to someone else after I started. In my case, it meant focus on your work, do your best in your position during work time, but the company understood the need for down time and respected boundaries. When I made my career switch, I came from an office environment that was very structured and "work is my life" focused. I was one of a few staff that tried to keep a more balanced schedule during my tenure, but the nature of the work kept people there for long hours and some weekends and they were praised for doing so. The turnover was telling the story there.
I disagree that it is an automatic red flag. I do think more questions need to be asked about what is meant by that, including specific examples. If you are really concerned about maintaining that balance, you owe it to yourself to inquire more.