How To Get a Job in Web3: The Ultimate Guide

The world of Web3 and cryptocurrency is exploding with opportunities, but how do you break into this exciting new industry? In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore why you should consider a career in Web3, debunk common myths, and provide actionable steps to land your dream crypto job. Whether you're a developer, marketer, designer, or business professional, there's a place for you in the decentralized future.

Why Work in Web3?

Jungle Gyms Over Career Ladders

In traditional industries, career progression often follows a predictable ladder. You start at the bottom, put in your time, and slowly climb up over the years. Web3 turns this model on its head, offering a more dynamic "jungle gym" approach to career growth.

In crypto, your abilities matter far more than your age or years of experience. This creates incredible opportunities for talented individuals to advance rapidly. As presenter Kash explains:

"If you work at Google, if you want to have an idea and you want to get it approved, there's 20 meetings that have to happen. It'll take you a few weeks or months. In crypto, if you have an idea, you go out and build it because output matters most."

He cites the example of Kanal, a 16-year-old who dropped out of high school and is now the lead engineer at a major crypto project. This kind of meteoric rise simply isn't possible in most traditional industries.

Freedom to Explore Multiple Roles

Web3 encourages a "free range" approach to careers. Unlike traditional jobs where you're often pigeonholed into a single role, crypto allows and even encourages you to wear multiple hats.

Kash gives the example of Arghya Raj Karia, who simultaneously:

• Runs a meme creation community called Memedao
• Advises the Gari project
• Invests in crypto projects
• Founded his own project called Trunks

This multifaceted approach is not just accepted in Web3 - it's celebrated. The industry recognizes that diverse experiences often lead to more innovative thinking and better outcomes.

A Haven for Unconventional Thinkers

If you've ever felt like your diverse interests or non-linear career path were holding you back, Web3 might be the perfect home for you. The industry values creativity, adaptability, and out-of-the-box thinking over traditional credentials.

Kash shares his own eclectic career journey, which includes roles as diverse as cart collector, museum worker, concert promoter, and philosophy student. He notes that this kind of varied background might be a liability in traditional tech, but it's an asset in crypto:

"If I tried to apply for a job at Google, they would laugh me out of the building. Right? There's no chance that they want someone like this. But again, in crypto, having a diversity of interests is perfectly acceptable, because what they want to see is do you get shit done on a consistent basis? Do you follow through?"

Age Is Just a Number

One of the most exciting aspects of Web3 is that it's an industry where you can start at any age. Whether you're a teenager or a retiree looking for a new challenge, crypto welcomes fresh perspectives.

As Devaiah points out, "You don't feel like you're taking a few steps down and you're joining somewhere as a junior in a new industry. That's actually a byproduct of the infancy at which the industry is."

This lack of entrenched hierarchies creates a more level playing field for newcomers of all ages and backgrounds.

Lucrative Compensation Packages

Let's address the elephant in the room - Web3 jobs often pay extremely well. This is largely due to the imbalance between the massive influx of capital into the space and the limited pool of qualified talent.

Kash shares a striking example: "Another super team member here on MOLLE. It's Andy. He started a Web2 job on Monday. We got him a Web3 offer on Tuesday. He quit his Web2 job on Wednesday. And by Thursday, he had 3X to salary."

While individual experiences may vary, it's not uncommon to see significant salary increases when moving from Web2 to Web3 roles. Kash provides a comparison chart showing potential salary ranges:

• Community Manager: $15-30k (Web2) vs $45-90k (Web3)
• Growth Marketer: $20-40k (Web2) vs $60-120k (Web3)
• Full Stack Developer: $30-60k (Web2) vs $90-180k (Web3)
• Solidity Developer: N/A (Web2) vs $135-270k (Web3)

Token-Based Compensation

Another unique aspect of Web3 compensation is the prevalence of token-based pay. Unlike traditional equity, which can be illiquid and difficult to value, tokens offer more flexibility and potential upside.

Kash explains: "If you're getting paid in tokens, instead tokens are always liquid and they are available on 24/7 global markets no matter what stage the project is at. It's better on pretty much every dimension than working in any other industry, except that it is more stressful."

This token-based model allows employees to potentially benefit directly from the success of the projects they work on, aligning incentives in a way that's rarely seen in traditional industries.

Debunking Common Web3 Career Myths

Myth 1: "I Should Wait for the Bull Market"

Many people hesitate to enter crypto during market downturns, thinking they should wait for prices to recover. However, this is actually one of the best times to start your Web3 career.

Kash emphatically states: "This is literally the best time to get a job in crypto. This is just fundamental finance. You want to buy low and sell high."

By joining during a bear market, you position yourself to potentially benefit from the next upswing. Even a return to previous highs could represent significant gains on any token-based compensation.

Myth 2: "It's All Crypto Bros"

While it's true that the early days of crypto were dominated by a particular demographic, the industry has evolved significantly. Kash notes, "The truth is now there are more women than ever before, and they're more joining every day."

He recommends several women-led communities for those looking to connect with other females in the space:

• Phoenix DAO
• Superwomen DAO
• Metagamma Delta DAO

These organizations are working to make Web3 more inclusive and diverse, creating opportunities for underrepresented groups in the industry.

Myth 3: "Working in Crypto is High Risk"

While cryptocurrency assets themselves can be volatile, working in the industry is not necessarily high risk. Kash explains:

"To be sure, some projects are Ponzis. Most of the projects that Davio is investing in are probably Ponzis. If you create an anti-davio portfolio and look at those projects, then you'll have some real-life side. There are plenty of very sustainable business models. Exchanges are an example."

Even if you join a project that ultimately fails, the experience and skills you gain will make you more employable in both Web3 and traditional tech. Employers value the ability to navigate uncertain and rapidly changing environments - exactly the skills you develop in crypto.

Myth 4: "I Need to Be a Developer"

In the early days of crypto, technical roles dominated the job market. However, as the industry has matured, the demand for non-technical roles has exploded. Kash notes:

"The truth is now there are actually more non-technical jobs available than technical jobs. As the industry has matured and as the builders have started to build things, they very quickly have realized that just building things and hoping that people come to it does not actually work."

There's now high demand for professionals in:

• Marketing
• Design
• Community management
• Business development
• Partnerships
• Legal and policy work

Kash points out that none of the hosts on the call are technical, yet they all work full-time in crypto. This demonstrates the wide range of opportunities available for non-developers.

Myth 5: "I Need to Understand Everything in Crypto"

The crypto space moves at lightning speed, with new projects and technologies emerging constantly. It's easy to feel overwhelmed and think you need to understand every aspect of the industry. However, Kash advises against this approach:

"If you try to learn everything, you will go insane. There is not enough time for in 10 lifetimes to learn all the stuff that's happening in crypto. It happens fast. So just pick something interesting to do. Maybe you're really into NFTs. Maybe you're really into DAOs or DeFi or something else. And just stick to that."

Specializing in a particular area of Web3 can actually make you more valuable and help you stand out in the job market.

How to Get a Job in Web3: A Step-by-Step Guide

Now that we've covered why you should consider a Web3 career and debunked some common myths, let's dive into the practical steps you can take to land your dream crypto job.

Step 1: Determine Your Risk Tolerance

Before diving into the job search, it's crucial to understand your own risk tolerance. This will help you target the right kinds of projects and roles. Kash presents a framework of three archetypes:

1. Explorers: Like Nikola Tesla, these are individuals who thrive on the cutting edge, discovering novel concepts. They have a high risk tolerance and are suited for early-stage projects and novel use cases.

2. Pioneers: Exemplified by Steve Jobs, pioneers excel at taking cutting-edge ideas and making them accessible to the masses. They're well-suited for projects that have demonstrated value but need to scale.

3. Settlers: These individuals excel at taking established ideas from 10 to 100, focusing on operations and systems thinking. They're best suited for more established projects like major exchanges or well-funded Layer 1 blockchains.

Understanding which category you fall into will help you target the right opportunities and avoid mismatches that could lead to frustration.

Step 2: Build Your Proof of Work

In Web3, your ability to demonstrate tangible outputs is far more important than traditional credentials. Kash outlines a three-step process for building your proof of work:

1. Learn: Dive deep into your chosen area of Web3.
2. Synthesize and Share: Make your learnings public through blog posts, tweets, or videos.
3. Create: Build tangible projects or contributions that showcase your skills.

Some examples of proof of work include:

• Creating educational content (blog posts, videos, infographics)
• Contributing to open-source projects
• Designing mockups or prototypes for Web3 apps
• Writing smart contracts
• Organizing local crypto meetups

The key is to have tangible outputs that demonstrate your skills and passion for the space.

Step 3: Use Cheat Codes

To really accelerate your Web3 job search, Kash shares three "cheat codes" that can give you an edge:

Cheat Code 1: Leverage Discord

Discord has become the de facto communication platform for many Web3 projects. Here's a step-by-step plan to use Discord to land a job:

1. Find an interesting project and join their Discord.
2. Spend a few days observing the active members and core team.
3. DM active community members to ask about problems the project faces.
4. Create a plan to solve these problems.
5. If possible, implement solutions permissionlessly.
6. Present your plan or solutions to the core team.

Kash guarantees that following this process will at least get you a meeting, and often leads directly to job offers.

Cheat Code 2: Harness the Power of Twitter

If Discord isn't your style, Twitter can be an equally powerful tool:

1. Become an expert on a specific project.
2. Create a comprehensive plan to add value to that project.
3. Send your plan to the founders or tweet it publicly.

Even if you don't get an immediate response, you're creating valuable proof of work that can attract other opportunities.

Cheat Code 3: Skate to Where the Puck is Going

Anticipate future needs in the Web3 space and develop skills accordingly. Kash highlights several high-demand areas:

• Blockchain developers (learn Solidity or Rust)
• Security auditors (learn how to audit smart contracts)
• Game designers (Web3 gaming is booming)
• Partnership and business development professionals
• Legal experts specializing in crypto regulations

Developing skills in these areas can give you a significant advantage in the job market.

Bonus Cheat Code: Join a Hackathon

Hackathons are an excellent way to build skills, network, and potentially land a job. Kash mentions the Solana Summer Camp hackathon, which offers $5 million in prizes and funding. These events often lead directly to job offers or funding for new projects.

The Superteam Talent Network: Your Gateway to Web3 Careers

For those serious about pursuing a career in Web3, Kash recommends joining the Superteam Talent Network (talent.superteam.fun). This platform offers:

• 50+ essays and tweet threads on topics like negotiation, equity, and token compensation
• Resources specific to various Web3 roles (partnerships, design, etc.)
• Active job matching services

By joining the talent network, you gain access to a wealth of information and potentially direct connections to job opportunities.

Conclusion: The Future is Web3

The transition to Web3 represents one of the most significant shifts in the technology landscape since the advent of the internet. By entering this space now, you position yourself at the forefront of a technological revolution.

While the crypto markets may be volatile, the underlying trends driving Web3 adoption continue to strengthen. From decentralized finance and NFTs to the metaverse and blockchain gaming, the opportunities in this space are vast and growing.

As Kash and his co-hosts demonstrate, you don't need to be a technical genius or a seasoned crypto expert to succeed in Web3. What you do need is passion, curiosity, and a willingness to learn and adapt quickly.

By following the strategies outlined in this guide - understanding your risk tolerance, building proof of work, and leveraging platforms like Discord and Twitter - you can dramatically increase your chances of landing an exciting and rewarding career in Web3.

Remember, the best time to enter any revolutionary industry is early. Despite the rapid growth we've seen in crypto, we're still in the early stages of Web3 adoption. By starting your journey now, you have the opportunity to shape the future of the internet and potentially reap significant rewards along the way.

So don't wait for the perfect moment - start building your Web3 career today. Whether you're joining the Solana Summer Camp hackathon, contributing to open-source projects, or diving into the Superteam Talent Network, every step you take brings you closer to your dream job in the decentralized future.

Facts + Figures

• Web3 jobs often offer 3-4.5x salary increases compared to equivalent Web2 positions
• Community Manager salaries: $15-30k (Web2) vs $45-90k (Web3)
• Growth Marketer salaries: $20-40k (Web2) vs $60-120k (Web3)
• Full Stack Developer salaries: $30-60k (Web2) vs $90-180k (Web3)
• Solidity Developer salaries: up to $135-270k in Web3
• The Solana Summer Camp hackathon offers $5 million in prizes and funding
• There are now more non-technical jobs available in Web3 than technical jobs
• Kanal, a 16-year-old, became a lead engineer at a major crypto project after dropping out of high school
• Andy, a Superteam member, 3x'd his salary within days of switching from a Web2 to a Web3 job
• Superteam Talent Network offers 50+ essays and tweet threads on Web3 career topics
• Web3 allows for more flexible career paths, with individuals often holding multiple roles simultaneously
• Token-based compensation in Web3 is generally more liquid and potentially lucrative than traditional equity
• The crypto industry is becoming more diverse, with several women-led communities emerging
• Hackathons like Solana Summer Camp often lead directly to job offers or project funding
• India is currently leading in participation for the Solana Summer Camp hackathon

Questions Answered

What are the main reasons to work in Web3?

Web3 offers several compelling reasons to build a career in the space. Firstly, it provides a more dynamic "jungle gym" approach to career growth, where abilities matter more than age or experience. Secondly, it allows for a "free range" approach, enabling you to explore multiple roles simultaneously. Thirdly, Web3 welcomes unconventional thinkers and diverse backgrounds. Additionally, the industry often offers lucrative compensation packages, including token-based pay, which can provide significant upside potential.

Do I need to be a developer to work in Web3?

No, you don't need to be a developer to work in Web3. While technical roles were dominant in the early days of crypto, there is now a higher demand for non-technical positions. These include roles in marketing, design, community management, business development, partnerships, and legal/policy work. The industry needs a diverse range of skills to build and scale projects, so there are opportunities for professionals from various backgrounds.

How can I use Discord to find a job in Web3?

Discord can be a powerful tool for landing a Web3 job. Start by joining the Discord of a project you're interested in. Spend a few days observing the active members and core team. Then, reach out to active community members to ask about problems the project faces. Create a plan to solve these issues, and if possible, implement solutions permissionlessly. Finally, present your plan or solutions to the core team. This proactive approach often leads to job offers or at least gets you a meeting with the team.

What is proof of work in the context of Web3 job hunting?

In Web3 job hunting, proof of work refers to tangible outputs that demonstrate your skills and passion for the space. This can include creating educational content like blog posts or videos, contributing to open-source projects, designing mockups for Web3 apps, writing smart contracts, or organizing local crypto meetups. The key is to have concrete examples of your work that showcase your abilities and understanding of the Web3 ecosystem. This proof of work often carries more weight than traditional resumes or credentials in the crypto job market.

How can I determine my risk tolerance for Web3 jobs?

Determining your risk tolerance for Web3 jobs involves understanding which archetype you align with: Explorer, Pioneer, or Settler. Explorers thrive on the cutting edge and are suited for early-stage, high-risk projects. Pioneers excel at scaling promising ideas and are well-suited for projects that have demonstrated value but need to grow. Settlers are best for established projects, focusing on operations and systems thinking. By identifying which category you fall into, you can target opportunities that match your risk tolerance and skill set, increasing your chances of job satisfaction and success in Web3.

What are some high-demand skills in Web3?

Several skills are in high demand in the Web3 space. Blockchain development, particularly in languages like Solidity and Rust, is always sought after. Security auditing for smart contracts is another critical area as the industry focuses on improving security. Game design is booming with the rise of blockchain gaming. Partnership and business development skills are crucial as projects seek to grow and integrate with each other. Lastly, legal expertise in crypto regulations is increasingly important as the regulatory landscape evolves. Developing skills in these areas can give you a significant advantage in the Web3 job market.

How can hackathons help in getting a Web3 job?

Hackathons are an excellent way to kickstart your Web3 career. They provide opportunities to build skills, network with others in the industry, and potentially land a job or funding for a project. For example, the Solana Summer Camp hackathon offers $5 million in prizes and funding. Participating in hackathons allows you to create tangible proof of work, collaborate with others, and get noticed by potential employers. Many participants have received job offers or secured funding for their projects directly through hackathon participation.

What is the Superteam Talent Network and how can it help my Web3 career?

The Superteam Talent Network is a platform designed to connect talented individuals with Web3 job opportunities. It offers over 50 essays and tweet threads on topics like negotiation, equity, and token compensation, as well as resources specific to various Web3 roles. The network actively tries to match members with job opportunities in the crypto space. By joining the Superteam Talent Network, you gain access to valuable information and potentially direct connections to job opportunities, making it an excellent resource for anyone serious about pursuing a career in Web3.