How to Find Startups to Work for on Reddit

You’re on the hunt for a high-growth, high-impact startup to join. You don’t want just any job; you want to get in early on something that could change the world. But how do you find that? The answer, surprisingly, is Reddit. If you think Reddit is just a forum for memes, think again. Reddit has become a treasure trove of startup opportunities for those who know where to look. From job postings to advice on breaking into the startup world, it's all there—but you have to know how to navigate it. Here’s how you can leverage Reddit to find the perfect startup to work for.

Step 1: Join Startup-Centric Subreddits

The first place to start is to dive into the subreddits dedicated to startups. Reddit is broken up into smaller communities, called subreddits, and there are many specifically designed for startup enthusiasts and job seekers. Here are a few key ones you should join:

• r/startups: This is the go-to place for discussions about startups, both as an entrepreneur and as someone looking for work. Here, you’ll find people discussing everything from early-stage ideas to funding tips. Job postings often pop up, and the community is helpful if you're trying to get your foot in the door.
• r/forhire: While not startup-specific, this subreddit is a general job board where many startup founders post when they need help. You'll find everything from software development to marketing positions here.
• r/remotework: If you're specifically looking for remote opportunities, this is your spot. Many startups, especially in tech, are embracing remote work as part of their core philosophy, and here’s where they look for talent.
• r/internships: For those just starting out or looking to pivot into the startup world through an internship, this subreddit is a goldmine.

Step 2: Engage with the Community

Simply lurking won’t get you far—you need to engage with the community. This is the place where the people you want to work for are hanging out, so you want to stand out. Reddit’s upvote system means that the more helpful and relevant your posts are, the more visibility they will get. Start by contributing to discussions, sharing your knowledge, and asking thoughtful questions. For example, if you're a software engineer, offer some technical advice in a relevant thread. People will notice, and you’ll build a reputation that might lead to a job opportunity down the line.

Engaging doesn’t just mean participating in discussions; it also means reaching out via direct messages (DMs) to the people running the startups you’re interested in. Reddit’s direct messaging system is often underused, but it’s a powerful tool. Make sure your message is well-crafted and to the point. Avoid generic messages—be specific about why you’re interested in their startup and how you think you can contribute.

Step 3: Look for Job Listings in Comment Sections

One of the more under-the-radar ways to find startup jobs on Reddit is through the comment sections. Founders don’t always create standalone job posts. Instead, they might casually mention that they’re looking to hire in a discussion about a related topic. To take advantage of this, you need to actively read through comments in the startup-related subreddits mentioned earlier. Keep an eye out for phrases like “we’re hiring,” “looking for someone to help with,” or “could use some help on…”. This strategy requires patience, but it can lead to high-quality opportunities that aren’t being widely advertised.

Here’s a pro tip: Use Reddit’s search function to look for posts with keywords like “hiring,” “job opening,” or “position available” within your favorite startup subreddits. Reddit’s search algorithm isn’t perfect, but it can still uncover some hidden gems.

Step 4: Post Your Own Availability

While many people come to Reddit to find jobs, posting your own availability is a reverse tactic that often works wonders. If you have a specific skill set and are looking to work for a startup, post in r/forhire or other relevant subreddits and clearly outline your experience, what you’re looking for, and how you can add value to a startup.

Make sure to include:

• A short bio: Highlight your expertise in a few sentences.
• Key skills: Be specific, and use bullet points for readability.
• Type of work: Full-time, part-time, freelance, or internship.
• Contact info: Reddit allows DMs, but you can also include your LinkedIn profile or email.

This post acts as your personal advertisement, and if crafted well, it can attract attention from founders browsing the subreddit looking for talent.

Step 5: Leverage Reddit’s AMA (Ask Me Anything) Series

Reddit’s AMA (Ask Me Anything) format is a great way to connect with startup founders. Founders, investors, and even well-known figures in the startup world frequently host AMAs where they take questions from the Reddit community. Pay attention to the startup-centric subreddits, as these AMAs often provide direct access to people who are either hiring or can connect you with those who are.

During these sessions, ask thoughtful questions and introduce yourself. Many AMAs conclude with the host offering ways to reach out for further conversation, which could be your foot in the door.

Step 6: Keep an Eye on Niche Subreddits

The startup world is vast, and startups are spread across every industry imaginable. For example, if you’re into fintech, joining r/fintech would put you in contact with startup founders who are building new products in that space. The same goes for healthcare (r/HealthTech), blockchain (r/CryptoCurrency), and even niche markets like gaming (r/gamedev).

If you have a specific interest, make sure you’re active in the subreddits that align with that interest. Startup founders often post about job openings in these niche communities because they want to attract people who are genuinely passionate about the field.

Step 7: Network Beyond Reddit

While Reddit is a great starting point, it’s important to use other tools and resources to complement your search. If you find a startup that interests you on Reddit, follow up by visiting their website, checking their LinkedIn profile, or even reaching out via Twitter. Reddit should be part of your larger strategy, not your only avenue.

Startup communities exist across multiple platforms, and being active on more than one increases your chances of finding the right fit. For example, once you’ve identified potential startups through Reddit, check out platforms like AngelList or Y Combinator’s job board for additional openings or further insights into the company.

Conclusion: Reddit as a Secret Weapon

In today’s competitive job market, Reddit is an underutilized but powerful tool for finding startup jobs. By actively engaging in startup-related subreddits, looking out for job postings in unconventional places, and even posting your own availability, you can leverage the community-driven nature of Reddit to your advantage. But remember, the key is to stand out by being authentic, helpful, and engaged. If you approach your search strategically and with patience, Reddit can be your secret weapon in landing your next startup gig.