[treya]

The "right" startup - one that is bootstrapped, has a successful product idea, a good founder, competent employees, and equity - is almost always a better choice than the big firm. That's because you'll get to wear all hats, learn on the fly, learn to do everything and anything to make the product successful, and with luck get a big chunk of change in a few years.

That said, companies like this are few and far between. Especially now, apparently with most startup companies opting in early for venture capital or angel investor funding, which dilutes both your opportunity for equity and say in the company. And honestly, there are a lot of dumb ideas out there. Also, if you're relatively new to the industry, you probably don't have the ability to recognize the right startup opportunity.

In most cases, it's better to start off at a big company and learn the ropes, and when you think you've done that, take your time watching for the startup opportunity, and then make that move. In the long run, though, no one really is going to look out for you. With these two steps under your belt, you'll have the background to be your own founder one day.