Working in Web3: Actual Strategies for Landing that Dream Job in the Industry

“The Emerging Crypto Industry,” a report published by K33 Research in July 2023, aims to capture the value creation and employment outcomes of the crypto industry. In the report, “about 10,000 companies with a combined valuation of almost $200 billion and close to 200,000 people working with crypto worldwide” are identified. It is also concluded that the industry will “continue to grow as the technology becomes more mainstream” and this is especially true for “countries with the right regulatory conditions and political backing”.

With these remarks in mind, it is important to understand how the Web3 market has changed over time and how it is structured, especially if you want to land that dream job. And particularly, how do you become and stay relevant to the Web3 job market an what are actual strategies for landing that gig you want?
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Breaking Down the Web3 Job Market
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‍The K33 Research report notes the prevalence of remote work in the industry in addition to a significantly higher number of jobs in the industry, a trajectory starting even before 2020. The report also notes that the majority of people are employed at medium to small businesses and that most crypto jobs are related to investments and trading, with 62,000 people working for exchange and brokerage companies and close to 50,000 people working for companies offering other crypto financial services. The other main types of employment include blockchain protocols, analytics, and mining, NFTs and gaming and other types of crypto jobs.

At Thrilld Labs, we observed that non-tech roles – in marketing, business, community, and whatnot – are just as prevalent and requested as tech-based jobs, which at times comes unexpected to some newer to the industry.

Some of the typical crypto companies include: crypto exchanges and brokerages, market makers, crypto investment and asset management, wallet, security, and custody providers, crypto payments solutions, crypto mining, blockchain protocol projects, DeFi and NFT projects, crypto-related research and analytics, and crypto media and news outlets. While these career paths may reflect the typical jobs, they are not the only jobs out there and true to its nature the Web3 industry is a space for innovation and pushing limitations. Fortunately, the industry is expanding with more investment, value creation and employment outcomes. It’s important to note that the report quoted was published during a bear market cycle. Hence, we may expect numbers to have significantly increased compared to one year ago.
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If considering a career in the Web3 and crypto industry, it is important to understand the roles and responsibilities and if they align with your goals and values. From this point, you can start to actively shape and guide your journey to landing your perfect job in Web3.
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First Steps: Identifying Your Goals and Values
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With the basis of Web3 built on an inclusive and accessible online network, the highly technological nature of the space can also arise as a barrier, for instance, to understanding jargon in general or in online job applications specifically. Fortunately, as with any industry, these technical details can be learned. Additionally, as readily noted, not all Web3 jobs are technical, and having a variety of skill sets can also be of value. So then what becomes key is having an initial basis and interest in the ecosystem, leveraging what you do know.

After making the decision to pivot towards a career in Web3, it is important to know the role and responsibilities of what you will be doing on a day-to-day basis. For example, take the Research Analyst role at Chorus One, a company focusing on Proof-of-Stake networks and decentralized protocols. For starters, the role is fully remote, as with many Web3 jobs. When reading through the list of responsibilities and the ideal candidate, you can find the diversity of tasks and different types of skills that are required. In this particular job description, they ask for understanding and analysis of blockchain technology and “in-depth technical research”.

At the same time, the candidate must also develop relationships, manage communications, evaluate business viability, and conduct due diligence. From this description alone, there is a versatility in the types of tasks one can do (and thus the skills needed), so identifying where your interests lie, can help the candidate better align to the ideal job they are looking for. As such, it might be a good idea to browse a few Web3 job boards to see what types of jobs there are and what looks right for you.

We’d also suggest considering the kinds of companies that you are looking for and whether said companies, or the very job you apply for, fit your values. Simply put, if you have an incredibly strong Web3 ethos, applying for a marketing role at a Web3 foundation might be more suitable than at a centralized exchange.
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Networking in Web3
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When initially looking for a job in Web3, it is important to get exposure to the industry and vice versa, which means showcasing who you are, your skill sets, and that you are open to work. Developing relationships and connections will be the most beneficial in Web3 since it gives you the chance to ask questions and find out what opportunities there are. You can also further familiarize yourself with the vocabulary, trends, and overall Web3 ecosystem through engagement with other industry professionals.
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One way to meet the people passionate about Web3 is to actually attend Web3 events in-person. When meeting people and making connections in real life, it is always great to be open and transparent on who you are and what you can offer, but remember to exercise caution and due diligence to prioritize your safety whilst engaging with others, especially if they promise the world Enthusiastic about your new connection? Swap contact details and lock in for that first follow-up meeting. See how you can help one another, and perhaps your encounter results in a wonderful job (or new friend).
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Another way can actually be to directly contact the individuals and key players in a particular ecosystem or company you are interested in. If doing this, try to be strategic about who you are contacting to avoid wasting your time and theirs. In the message, be clear about who you are, why you are contacting them, and what about that ecosystem or company particularly attracted you. Connecting to someone with a stronger network may also present unanticipated surprises.
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But asking too much of someone has its limits, so try also to present what you can bring to the table. Owen Healy, a top-notch blockchain recruiter,  wrote in a blog post:  "Ensure each 'key player' knows you understand the industry and 'the project,' even if you lack formal experience". He explains how if you aspire to be a Community Lead, then show your commitment to the company and knowledge of the role by "[offering] opinions on competitor strategies" or "[suggesting] ways to improve community engagement" among other ways. Indeed, it’s all about adding clever and sincere value.
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Joining Networks and Communities
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Another way to get exposure and step into the Web3 market is to join communities. You will find that many people in the ecosystem are more than happy to help out. In an article by Entre, “How To Find A Job In Web3,” it is stated that:  write “If you want help, the right community or network can be invaluable. If you’re serious about pursuing Web3 jobs, why not join communities where other people can inform you about potential roles and opportunities?”.
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To that point, not only can you meet people with years of experience (or those just starting out), but a community can provide unexpected opportunities, networking, discussions over hot topics and burning industry questions, and overall is just a fun way to build new relationships while exploring all that Web3 has to offer. Additionally, these communities are very easy to find and a good place for anyone to learn and watch discussions or for someone wanting to participate and add to the discussion actively. These communities can be easily accessed remotely on platforms like Reddit, Discord, and Telegram, or you can look for local groups or meetups in your city for discussions on Web3.  
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Another way to reach out to communities and engage with the ecosystem is to join dedicated Web3 networking platforms. For example, Thrilld is a networking app for Web3 professionals, yet also much welcomes those looking for new jobs and gigs as well as those hiring. In Thrilld, individuals can create a personalized profile directly connecting to a community of Web3 professionals and those interested in Web3. When creating a profile, showcase you are looking for a job by adding the label 'Open to Work'. Users can also add a professional-looking profile picture and their ambitions and experiences on their profiles.
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Participating in Traineeships, Internships, or Volunteering
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Another route when first looking for a professional experience in Web3 could be to try out a volunteer or traineeship such as Thrilld Labs’ Traineeship Program. In these roles, you can learn the basics of the industry and develop skills relevant to Web3. This would also be a good experience to add to your resume showcasing your commitment and interest in the field. Expanding your network in this direction will also put you closer to those in the industry and help you reach your job aspirations.

While (usually) unpaid opportunities present unique learning and networking experiences, do remember to never accept terms or ongoing practices that exploit you, or your work.

In conclusion, although following the typical application process is always an option to find opportunities in Web3, it may be more fruitful to strategically consider other avenues that lead you to landing a job in the space. By building knowledge, leveraging your network, and obtaining new skills while continuously showcasing your interest in the industry, you will build that solid foundation for growth. Hopefully your next job in the space is just around the corner!

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