Description:
Yes – many founders start a startup while keeping a full-time job, but it’s hard and requires discipline. You must watch for legal issues (invention assignment, moonlighting policies) and avoid letting your day job suffer. Validate ideas with customer interviews, pre-sales or paid pilots, recruit at least one committed cofounder, and set clear traction milestones that justify quitting. Investors favor committed teams, but strong early revenue or users can offset part-time founders.
2 Answers
Building a VC-ready startup while employed? Sure, it’s like juggling flaming swords—possible but you might singe your eyebrows off.
One thing often overlooked: the mental gymnastics of switching hats from employee to founder daily. Your brain needs a breather or you risk burnout before your big break.
Plus investors sometimes worry about “split focus” affecting growth. Did you consider how you’ll keep your energy up without turning into a zombie?Try negotiating a formal part-time arrangement with your employer. Many companies will grant a three day per week option and a right to return after 12 months, which gives runway and makes you look stable to investors who oddly prefer founders with steady pay. Does your company have HR policies that would allow a reduced schedule?
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