Ask HN: Quitting from a small startup?

#1

Post by shadowycoder » Thu, Aug 04, 2016, 1:56 AM UTC

I've been a key member (first hire) of a small start-up for a couple years but now it's time to move on.

I recently accepted a new position at one of the big tech companies and, to be frank, the company I work for now relies very heavily on me.

I'm the only one with any experience doing front end development and they have a lot of need for that right now.

What are some tips to help soften the blow when I give them my two weeks?

I've got some ideas but I'll let you have at it without influencing the commentary by mentioning my current 'plan'.

Thanks in advance for the tips!

Edit: Just to add, I'm on good terms with everyone. They've been working me to the bone for months now (one of the reasons I chose to leave) but it's been a positive work environment 100% of the time.

Re: Ask HN: Quitting from a small startup?

#2

Post by mikecke » Thu, Aug 04, 2016, 3:04 AM UTC

- Help onboard another developer?

Re: Ask HN: Quitting from a small startup?

#3

Post by dudul » Thu, Aug 04, 2016, 3:06 AM UTC

Just say that you got a new great opportunity, give two week notice and offer to help train somebody as much as possible to take over your responsibilities.

What else is there really?

I wouldn't mention the fact that they exploited you. It wouldn't gain you anything, and would just create a risk of burning bridges.

Re: Ask HN: Quitting from a small startup?

#4

Post by brudgers » Thu, Aug 04, 2016, 5:30 PM UTC

As a general rule every employee is replaceable, there's always a backlog of work when people aren't about to get layed off, and there's never a great time to leave.

My advice, just stick to the facts. The reaction may not be anything you expect. Small companies sometimes fire people when receiving notice. Maybe there's a lame counter offer that puts the departing employee on the spot. Maybe there's already a replacement in the pipeline: in a small shop it's often no secret that someone is looking for a job.

Don't burn bridges.

Good luck.