Agency vs Startup: From a Young Designer
At the age of 21, I had worked at a few startups and one very recognizable agency. By the age of 23 I had even more time to engage in each. I’d like to think somehow I’ve gotten to experience the best of both worlds: agencies vs startups. Living in startup city, I’ve learned a few differences and key takeaways as a young adult — at least in San Francisco.
Process
Agency
Process is key. If you’re talking about a large agency, you have to have one. There are processes in place for every little thing. Even getting lunch delivered to you — would you believe it? Everything is documented and everyone knows the process. Getting briefed on a project? You bet you’re about to be handed a piece of paper (okay, let’s hope it’s digital now days — for the trees sake) formatted the same as every other one. Do they need a small change? Lather, Rinse, Repeat.
Startup
The process is having no process. As the startup grows, processes form naturally, but for most, they are nonexistent. For the “Type A” person in the room, that’s a bad thing. For the “Type B”, they are rejoicing! Don’t expect a creative brief — expect an email or chat message about needing something in a short amount of time. Is there a change that needs to be done? Sure, someone will probably yell it to you from a few chairs down while pouring themselves a beer. Being flexible is key because of the fast-paced environment. If your startup gets to a point where a process is important to get something done, guess who is in charge of making it? You. Wooooo.
Culture
Agency
The culture is work. Work is the culture. Work hard and the people upstairs will love it. You don’t get along with the person in the cubical next to you? You’re in luck, it probably wouldn’t be hard to avoid them and talk to them only when you absolutely have to. Phew!
Want a glass of wine? Go get you one — but only after five! Strict rules these agencies have. Just poor some in a mug and you’ll be golden.
Startup
Culture is key! Startups are known for it. People are fun, loud, obnoxious, [usually] easily to get along with. Why? Well because you’re basically living with these guys to make sure your company survives. Not a big fan of someone in your office? Well, get over that quickly because you probably will have to talk to them more often than not — no matter what size startup you are.
Want a beer? Pour yourself a glass from on of the many kegs. Normal drinking time is… anytime! Need a break? There are probably bunk beds or bean bags somewhere around here… (please see the Work/Life Balance section).
Promotions
Agency
They are rare, but not unheard of. Most agencies are top-down, seniority plays a major role in getting a promotion. That’s not a bad thing, it just takes time. Age and experience play a huge factor! Don’t be discouraged, but be encouraged to stay at an agency for quite some time to mark your territory. A new college grad probably won’t be named Head of Design… which is probably a good thing, right?
Startup
Just joined the team? Don’t be surprised if you get promoted quickly. It’s the nature of startups. They value your time and energy. Your CEO could be a twenty-something, your head of product could be a new graduate, and your newest employee could be a mom in her mid 40's. Startups move fast, they change dramatically, and open up positions for anyone who can help the company move forward appropriately. You could be conducting interviews your 2nd month in and this could be your first job. Don’t be surprised! Get excited.
Knowledge
Agency
You were hired for your exact position — designer. With that in mind, remember to harp on your strengths and work on your weaknesses. In an agency, you’ll be constantly on the go —always expected to deliver a perfect product.
Startup
You were hired as a designer? Great! Let’s get you to write some copy. What? Guess what, you’re wearing a lot of hats in a startup! Don’t be surprised when you’re asked to hop on a sales call. You’re expected to know more and more outside of your natural role. The great thing about this is that startups will help you learn what you want to learn and more!
Work/Life
Agency
You know, this depends on the place. Some agencies are great about letting you go at 5pm, others aren’t. I will say agencies mostly have a vacation policy. One that’s standard in most 9–5’s, maybe 2 or 3 weeks of vacation. Agencies work on deadlines. If you find yourself working late it probably means you need to have something done by a certain time.
Startup
You live and breathe the product. Everyday is a new adventure which means you will probably work long days. You’re constantly surrounded by people who fully believe in the product and will do anything to help it get off the ground. Be prepared for long, hard days, but a rewarding end. Vacation time is usually treated as “unlimited”. Make sure you use it.
Projects
Agency
Various projects cross your path. You’re basically starting fresh on every project! You will find yourself deep into a branding guide before you start a project, looking at past mockups, and excited to get started. It’s hard to get tired of a brand when you get to start fresh every couple weeks.
Startup
You’re most likely working under the umbrella of the same brand. You always use the same colors, same font, same style of icons. Consistency is key. There’s always surprise projects in startups that are just needed to be “cool”. That being said, you’re going to get to break the brand guide a bit and explore!
Agencies and startups differ greatly — so take everything in this post with a grain of salt. Do what you feel is right and don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone!
