Hacker News Reader

Comment by ghopper | Hacker News Reader

Unfortunately due to bureaucracies and politics, the investors (and founder) have a very particular point of view and change is nearly impossible.

Some of us have tried (multiple times) in the past to rekindle that thrill and excitement but issues still persisted and nothing changed. With enough time (almost) anything is possible, I just can't wait around forever for promises to be made and broken over and over again.

I fear many small failures are unavoidable in the short term (2+ years) and I need to focus on my own personal and career growth for me and my family.

View on HN

Yes, I know the feeling, having had similar political BS affect me. In that case, you do indeed need to act in your own best interests. The act of divesting your interest will send a signal to them, which might waken them up, but from what you say, they would have to exit to keep the company alive and have others rebuild the company - which you indicate will not happen (broken promises etc). So manage your exit as best you can. Do not spread any bad words against them, it will look like sour grapes and might be actionable. The founder(s) might want to taint you in some manner after you leave, but the people in the business area you are in will not be fooled, they will lay the blame where it should go. Sadly, there are few ways to glorify an exit, especially if they crash and burn after you leave, so you might have to wander in the wilderness for a period before you get on your feet. Good luck with the process.

So umm, it sounds like you made attempts to change the situation and there was no improvement forthcoming. Give notice of 2 weeks (3 weeks if you are really broken up about it) and move on with life. You are not paid well, don’t have enough skin in the game, and aren’t working for a charity. Whatever loyalty you have for your employer should be tempered by the fact that he did not value the opinions you have expressed previously. When you leave, you can either be honest or just say you are moving on to new opportunities that will help you move forward with your career and your ability to take care of your family. The latter should ensure your ability to get a good recommendation for your next job.

Well I had the conversation finally.

It unfortunately went pretty much as I expected.

The investors were completely understanding, thanked me for my hard work and wished me well as they know its time for me to move on. For them, this showed another point where the founder was unable to manage himself and the work properly.

Hopefully we can all give the founder feedback (if he will take it without being offended) on how to make the best use of his and our time working hard as a team.

Reply on news.ycombinator.com