Doing the Leg Work

Culture → The vision, way of working, goals should match!

Become a user of the product → If possible // try the product out!

Research → Read and research about the company before applying / reaching out

• Good research → good cold email → good chances of getting a reply
• Research about who the best person to apply to is. It doesn't always have to be the CEO, could be the engineering/design/growth head (more chances of getting noticed)

Give context → Why you love the company + how your interests / past experiences will bring value to the startup

• Some of the most successful young people in the startup space did not necessarily start out as the most 'qualified' or experienced candidate - however, they were able to demonstrate an eagerness to learn and where they can add value

Projects and Portfolios

Personal projects and portfolios of past work are often looked upon very favourably. Whilst these may not be applicable to every role, building projects and showcasing them (outside of university) can be a great way to demonstrate your willingness to go above and beyond, your passion and skill in your area of interest and ability to see things through from start to finish.

Design

Portfolio on Behance / Dribbble

Build it on Webflow

Code it! (Brownie points)

Engineering

Github

Repl.it

Firebase / Heroku

Operations

Social Media Plans

Case studies

Growth Strategies!

They love self starters and self learners (high ownership)

If possible, tailor each portfolio you showcase to the role you are applying to!

Always make sure your links are visible.

Food for Thought

Operations

When have you made order out of chaos?

When have you had to cater to a range of different types of people and shown excellent and adaptable communication skills?

Do you get a kick out of organisation, systems and order?

Engineering

What's the best thing you've made without anybody asking?

What's your favourite website? How would you make it better?

What great software is nobody building?

Design

What's the best website you've designed without anybody asking?

What's your most unpopular design-related opinion?

What are your favourite fonts? Why do you like them?

Making it Happen

You will hear Batko and many other great leaders credit luck as playing a part in their success. Of course, they are also incredibly hardworking people, but the reason why so many people talk about their luck comes down to one simple rule:

<aside> 💡 ***Luck Surface Area - Check out the article by Michael Batko***

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