CV value of starting up a company

[ser]

Hi everybody,

I was wondering about the value of having started a company from the point of view of evaluation of the curriculum vitae. In my opinion, starting up your own company is a very valuable professional experience, even more important than working on a company of the same type. However, this is just my opinion. I would be very glad if you can provide some references of books, articles, etc. where a similar opinion is stated (or, at least, where they say how valuable is starting up a company).

I would like to find "evidence" that supports my claim. Similarly, I'd be happy to hear your comments on this. For example, when a company evaluates your CV, would they consider more important that you have started your own company or would they would prefer to see professional experience in other companies? How can a prospective employer to counter-act if he/she is said in a job interview that they would prefer professional experience working on a big company?

Thanks in advance,

S

[jdoc]

Good question!

It really depends on what you've accomplished in either setting. It shows that you're willing to accept a lot of responsibility (particularly if you're managing other employees), have versatile skills that can be used in a variety of settings, and can show determination to overcome challenges (otherwise you wouldn't be starting a company that is more likely to fail than not).

That said, if your company folded in six months with little or no revenue, then it says something about you as well (and it's not positive). But if you've shown some success I think it can be a big positive.

It all comes down to what type of job you're trying to get and if some of the other skills you've learned in a startup can relate to the job description. If they can't, then it probably does hurt you. But if they can then I think it can give you an advantage.

[sicnarftea]

there are some negative ramifications, the employers, they may see you as a threat to the company, or they may have reasons to believe that you will use your time at work to your own advantage instead of for the sake of their company.

Its a double edged sword