CXO Offer - Top 8 Things to Look for in an Indian Startup

As someone who's navigated the landscape of Indian startups, particularly in early stages, I understand the importance of making informed decisions when considering a CXO position. While funding, business viability, and industry space are crucial factors, there are other equally significant aspects to consider.

Here are my top 8 things to look for:

1. Founder/Cofounders Background: Evaluate the founders' backgrounds carefully. Do their background, IQ, and EQ match yours? If you feel a mismatch in most aspects, it could be a red flag. Can they debate to set the vision/direction? Are they insecure? Ask yourself if you would hire them and if there is anything you can learn from them. If the answer is no, then it is a red flag.

2. Past Hires: Research the company's past hiring practices and culture. Speak with executive search firms or recruiters for insights. Reach out to former employees for firsthand experiences, understanding there are always multiple perspectives to consider.

3. Current Employees: Connect with current employees to gauge the work culture and any existing challenges. Key areas to explore include decision-making processes, timeliness of salary payments, ESOP allocation transparency, regular communication from founders, adherence to meritocracy, and the handling of expenses and employee exits.

4. Online Presence: Utilize platforms like Glassdoor and LinkedIn to gather information on employee tenures and hiring patterns. Look for any recurring patterns or feedback that could indicate potential issues.

5. Interview Process: Reflect on the entire interview process. Consider who you interacted with, whether your skills were adequately evaluated, and if HR was involved. Pay attention to how compensation negotiations were handled.

6. Your Resume/Profile Fit: Assess whether the role aligns with your career trajectory and if you would proudly feature it on your resume and LinkedIn profile. Trust your judgment in determining if the role passes the common-sense test.

7. Compensation: Avoid taking pay cuts whenever possible, unless there is a significant upside in ESOPs or groundbreaking work. Ensure all compensation details are documented in writing, including ESOP allocations with proof. WhatsApp message is not enough ??

8. Meeting the Board: Request a meeting with at least one board member before accepting the offer. While board interactions may vary, meeting them provides insights into the company's governance structure and potential red flags if the founders resist such interactions.

In conclusion, trust and respect for the founders' intentions are paramount when considering a CXO role in a startup. Even with thorough due diligence, mismatches can occur, and it is crucial to recognize them early and make informed decisions for your career.

Remember, every experience, whether positive or negative, contributes to your growth and learning journey.