Hey everyone
I launched a company in the UK about 14 years back, then pivoted it into a startup model around 7 years ago. We managed to secure more than $6 million from venture capital investors, but unfortunately ran out of funding in early 2024.
I know the current job market is really tough, but I’m getting pretty discouraged. Even though I keep networking and sending applications for positions that match my background, I’m not making any real progress toward landing a role.
Our main focus was developing augmented reality, virtual reality, and mixed reality solutions, plus we created a software development kit aimed at enterprise clients and defense contractors.
Part of me thinks I should have gone the fintech or B2B software route instead, since it feels like I’ve made things unnecessarily complicated for my career path. Right now I’m targeting product management and program management positions in the XR space, given my experience overseeing product development, client relationships, and leading a diverse team of about 15 people.
Has anyone else who founded a company run into similar challenges? Like when your specialized startup doesn’t work out and suddenly you’re in a job market that wants very specific expertise? I’d really value any suggestions or insights you might have.
Thanks for taking the time to read this.
your biggest problem isn’t the xr specialization - it’s that you’re still thinking like a founder, not an employee. hiring managers spot that entrepreneurial “i know better” attitude instantly and it freaks them out. they want someone who’ll follow their processes, not shake things up on day one.
try applying for positions slightly below what you think you deserve. sounds harsh, but getting in the door beats protecting your ego right now. also, 7 years in startup land means you’ve probably lost your corporate speak fluency.
Going from founder to employee isn’t just about tweaking your resume. You’re hitting the same wall tons of experienced entrepreneurs face—translating that visionary leadership stuff into language corporate folks actually get. Here’s the thing: most hiring managers don’t know how to evaluate founders because their interview playbooks weren’t built for entrepreneurial backgrounds. Your XR expertise is actually perfect timing. Companies are finally jumping on immersive tech, so you’re positioned really well. Don’t think your path is too messy—managing VCs, pivoting business models, and scaling teams through chaos? That’s exactly the adaptability these companies are desperate for. Focus on the numbers. How much revenue did you generate? What partnerships did you land? What technical milestones did you hit? Then show you can work within their structured world. Those defense sector connections you mentioned could be gold—government contracts need exactly what you have: deep tech knowledge plus program management chops. Keep pushing. The right company will see your experience as a huge asset, not some weird anomaly.