Working in a start-up is very challenging but also very rewarding. It's not a place for passengers, every member has to contribute or the business could fail, its that serious. Having a certain level of business/tech skills is important but more importantly is the energy, drive and the enthusiasm you bring on top of that. It's important to work collaboratively but also independently when needed. Every minute counts, there are no hiding places. It's important from the outset that team members are not afraid to evaluate situations and make decisions based on trade-offs. Everyone makes mistakes but no decision should carry the consequences of life or death. Getting to that position was the problem in the first place. 

Hiring the right people is key, one bad apple could ruin a business. Ego's need to be left at home, it's everyone in this together. If you don't agree with a decision then you have to move on, give it your best shot. If it doesn't work out then its not a place for “I told you so”. Let's try something else, lessons learned and we move on and grow together.

I was offered senior/lead roles at larger organisations but that type of work doesn't inspire me. There are a lot of unnecessary distractions which stops good work getting done. Changing your mind on a technology and/or a development tool may not be possible, even if its best for the business. That doesn't make sense. That's why there are big opportunities for start-ups, especially in the current climate. Any business that has over spent or acted carelessly will come under pressure. They have become complacent and unable to adapt, thats when a start-up can take advantage. Having the ability to change technologies/services quickly to meet current market needs is a big advantage. Having and maintaining that underdog mentality is key to a start-up initial and long term success.