I joined a startup very early (#12) 2.5 yrs ago that had previously successful and well-known founders. I took below market pay but ended up working out (now valued around $500m) and believe they will succeed long-term.<p>I&#x27;ve since left but of course early employee equity was one of my top considerations.<p>To join an early stage startup that you do not think will succeed and become &quot;big&quot; should rarely be worth your time.