The frame reality however is that the mythology of the windfall is part of the sell and a motivator for many. People _want_ to believe. And secretly in their heart of hearts they do believe.
Not in the reality, which they are likely smart enough to determine by reading their paperwork, and running the scenarios–even if they are treated properly, which seems increasingly rare...
...in the fantasy.
The fantasy is part of the sell. It is part of the glamor (sic) of being able to present yourself to others as _working in a startup in the Bay Area_.
IMO companies with integrity would _actively_ tell people up front what to expect (zero) and to explain why they offer equity anyway.
Were I interviewing, the company that led with that kind of honesty would stand out, regardless of its size or prospects.
Not in the reality, which they are likely smart enough to determine by reading their paperwork, and running the scenarios–even if they are treated properly, which seems increasingly rare...
...in the fantasy.
The fantasy is part of the sell. It is part of the glamor (sic) of being able to present yourself to others as _working in a startup in the Bay Area_.
IMO companies with integrity would _actively_ tell people up front what to expect (zero) and to explain why they offer equity anyway.
Were I interviewing, the company that led with that kind of honesty would stand out, regardless of its size or prospects.