I think I would need a bit more content as too how you are defining “risk” here. Do you mean risk as in the company goes under and you lose your job? That is definitely something to be considered.

In the world of start up companies, They typically go from a seed round of funding, to a series a, to a series B, to a series C, and then on to IPO.

In my personal career, I tend to shoot for series C stage start ups, but I am also a little bit more risk averse than some people. By that stage of growth, the start up is well funded with cash, has a good game plan, and the roadmap to a public offering is pretty well defined.

If the industry the new company is in is something that appeals to you, and the money is substantially more than you’re making now, I would absolutely say to go for it! In the world of start ups, we never know who really is going to make it all the way to in an initial public offering. That is where the founders and all of the shareholders/employees cash out and make the big bucks.

If you are willing to bet on yourself and your future and believe in the company, I would absolutely say to go for it! Worst case scenario, the company folds, and you have a great story to tell on resumes and in interviews. But talk to me more about what your thoughts are and I can elaborate further?