Want to be a part of a startup, but have a skillset that isn’t exactly steeped in technical development proficiency?
New York startup biz-dev dude Eric Stromberg recently posted a seven-step guide with tips on how to score a gig with a startup. It’s geared a bit towards recent college graduates trying to decide whether or not to go to a big banking firm or something else, but there’s still some nuggets of wisdom in here that job-seekers of any age can use.
On sending cold emails:
6. Send cold emails – Contrary to popular belief, they work. I sent dozens off emails during my job search inquiring about jobs and heard back from a handful of companies. That’s a handful more than I would have heard from otherwise. (Of course, try to make these emails meaningful, not just templates). The best piece of advice I can give is to get the conversation started early.
I’d start by emailing a few entry-level employees at some of the companies you find most interesting. Find their email addresses online and send them a quick note along with your resume – you’d be surprised how few people looking for jobs in startups even take the time to do this. If you can’t find their email then send them a note on twitter or comment on their blog.
The reason most startups will be respond to your inquiry is that although they aren’t always hiring, startups are always looking to meet exceptional people. In a fast-growing company, hiring needs pop up quickly and the faster they can fill the job, the less time they spend away from product-building. Getting to know potential employees before the need arises is key to finding the best people and filling roles fast.
What say you, LA startups? Do you respond to cold emails? Should more job-seekers be doing that?
Read More: Eric Stromberg — How to get a job at a startup if you aren’t a developer.
