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Understanding Women's Experiences in Startups

The recent survey conducted by Waris, a talent services company based in Tokyo, sheds light on the experiences and challenges faced by women working in startups. The survey targets women who are currently involved or have worked in startup companies, highlighting their perspectives on what makes these environments appealing or challenging.

Survey Background

With the Japanese government enhancing support for startups under its “Basic Policy 2025,” the role of these companies in driving economic growth and innovation has become increasingly significant. However, many startups struggle with a lack of talent, particularly compounded by the underrepresentation of women, which could hinder the innovation process that thrives on diverse viewpoints and skills. This survey aims to delve into the attractiveness and challenges of working in startups for women, thereby encouraging more females to consider careers in this sector and aiding companies in creating a more conducive working atmosphere for women.

Survey Questions

The survey was structured around four key questions:
1. How easy is it to work in a startup environment?
2. What do you find rewarding about working in a startup?
3. What challenges do you face in such roles?
4. What advice would you give to women considering a career in startups?

Work Environment Assessment

1. Ease of Working in Startups

A significant 72.7% of respondents identified startups as either "easy to work in" or "somewhat easy." Participants attributed this ease to factors such as:

• - Flexible working arrangements (like remote work and flexible hours)
• - Quick decision-making processes and a sense of urgency
• - Open communication due to smaller teams.

Conversely, 9.7% felt that startups were difficult to navigate, with their concerns linked to:

• - Lack of transparency around evaluations and compensation
• - Communication often becoming too personalized due to their expeditious nature
• - Challenges in maintaining a work-life balance.

Interestingly, 17.6% of respondents chose "neutral," indicating both positive and negative aspects of their experiences.

Attractions of Startup Life

2. Rewards of Working in Startups

When asked about the appealing aspects of startup work, 66.7% noted flexible work arrangements, while 61.1% valued the opportunity to engage in diverse tasks.

Challenges in Startup Ecosystems

3. Difficulties in Startup Roles

The challenges highlighted by 66.2% of respondents involved unstable management and organizational structures. Similarly, 65.7% reported that expansive job descriptions often led to burnout.

Advice for Aspiring Women

4. Recommendations for Future Female Entrepreneurs

Survey participants emphasized the importance of aligning personal health and family well-being with their career ambitions. Many advocated for self-awareness and understanding one's strengths before diving into the startup scene. Here are some notable quotes from women with startup experience:

• - “If you have the desire to explore possibilities beyond the constraints of a large organization, a startup may be the place for you. Proposals made with a sense of urgency are often welcomed, regardless of age or gender.” - A female finance executive in her 50s.
• - “For those eyeing clear career transitions or entrepreneurial experiences, startups offer an incredibly rich environment.” - A venture capitalist in her 20s.
• - “Leaving a large corporation opened up executive opportunities for me at a startup, leading to significant career growth.” - A business owner in her 50s.
• - “Making sure that the startup mission aligns with personal health and family peace is crucial before making a move.” - An HR professional in her 40s.
• - “Startups can provide a space where women can work freely, but it's undeniable that they come with instabilities. Keeping an alternative career option on the side can alleviate anxieties.” - A secretary in her 50s.

Conclusions and Future Directions

Miwa Tanaka, Co-Representative of Waris, remarked on the survey findings, indicating a trend where many women feel positively about their working conditions in startups. Challenges such as unclear evaluations and work-life balance issues need urgent attention. Waris is committed to addressing these concerns and contributing to a society where everyone can lead lives true to themselves.

Survey Details

• - Period: June 27, 2025 - July 11, 2025
• - Participants: Women working or having worked in startups
• - Method: Online questionnaire
• - Responses: 233
• - Conducted by: Waris Inc.

About Waris Inc.

Waris Inc. empowers individuals to lead fulfilling lives through various services, including career transition, skills re-training, and connecting female professionals with growing companies. With around 30,000 registered users and 2,900 corporate partners, Waris continues to foster a supportive environment for diverse working styles.

For more about Waris profiles and their services, visit Waris Official Site.