> So basically I get to do all the work for like 1/50th of what the founder has?
Who raised the money that the company is using to pay salaries? When investors put money into a seed company, they're largely betting on the founders' perceived skillset and previous experience (or other bona fides like education).
One thing that most people don't realize is that being a founder means that you're inextricably tied to the company for its lifespan. Losing a founder is terrible optics and can be a death sentence for a startup. Regardless of the actual reason, every subsequent investor conversation will involve an explanation of what happened.
If you want more equity, you should ask for it! And you definitely shouldn't take a job where you'd feel under-compensated! But realistically, if you want a "founder-level" equity, you have to start your own company.
Who raised the money that the company is using to pay salaries? When investors put money into a seed company, they're largely betting on the founders' perceived skillset and previous experience (or other bona fides like education).
One thing that most people don't realize is that being a founder means that you're inextricably tied to the company for its lifespan. Losing a founder is terrible optics and can be a death sentence for a startup. Regardless of the actual reason, every subsequent investor conversation will involve an explanation of what happened.
If you want more equity, you should ask for it! And you definitely shouldn't take a job where you'd feel under-compensated! But realistically, if you want a "founder-level" equity, you have to start your own company.