The guide

How to get a job at a startup

Written by a founder who hires, and who went through this from the other side. No recruiter advice, no listicles. What actually happens at each stage, what to ask, and what to look for before you commit.

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Referrals

One message from someone inside moves you to the top of a pile of hundreds. How to get one when you know nobody, with the real messages that worked.

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01

Before you apply

What you trade, what kind of company suits you, and where to find them.

02

Vetting a company

How to check the one in front of you is solid.

  • How risky is this startup?
  • Talking to current employees
03

Getting in the door

Getting seen, and what a founder actually reads.

04

The interview process

Every stage, from screening call to trial day.

05

The offer

Equity, salary, and judging what's on the table.

  • Evaluating an offer
  • Equity explained
  • If the startup shuts down
  • Negotiating
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