How to get your first job in crypto
Although it’s nearing 15 years in age, crypto is still a young industry and growing all the time. Statistics show that the crypto market could have 347 million active users by 2027.
Due to the fact that crypto is based on blockchain technology with links to the wider decentralized finance (DeFi) industry, cryptocurrency is a highly attractive career path for people with a history in financial services, technology and FinTech.
With high-growth sectors such as these, there is always a correlating rise in demand for talent. But many potential candidates make the mistake of thinking that they need direct experience in crypto and DeFi before they apply for roles related to cryptocurrency. So here are four effective ways to enhance your existing skills and build experience for a new career in crypto.
Learn about crypto
Get familiar with some of the major cryptocurrencies on the market. From leaders like Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana and Tether, to the more niche memecoins such as Doge and Shib, it’s worthwhile researching the most popular. You should also understand the different forms of cryptocurrency, including stablecoins, memecoins, layer 1 and layer 2.
You don’t need to become an instant expert, but by familiarizing yourself with how some of the main players were created, their key utility and their varying roles in the DeFi ecosystem, it will put you in a good position professionally.
Identify relevant and transferable skills
By reviewing your career and work history you will probably identify some relevant skills and realize you’ve already got experience that can help towards a crypto career. It will also help you decide which area of crypto and DeFi is most suitable for you.
Many crypto roles revolve around STEM - science, technology, engineering and math - therefore, any jobs involving these areas put you in the right place for a career in cryptocurrency. It might be electrical or computer engineering, software development or programming, coding and systems design.
Even if you don’t have experience in the above, don’t be disheartened! Candidates with a history in copywriting or journalism can apply for crypto content editor roles, as well as positions in marketing, communications and business development.
And of course, if you’ve got experience in financial services or Financial Technology, this is very closely aligned with cryptocurrency and decentralized finance.
Update your socials and network with pros
Crypto Twitter is a thriving social media community bursting with industry information, breaking news and networking opportunities. Keeping your own profile up to date with your crypto journey - what you’re learning about, researching etc - shows prospective employers that you’re engrained and active in the community.
LinkedIn is a great place to stay on top of the latest opportunities in crypto, DeFi and FinTech. There are many groups you can join as well as recruiters and talent acquisition managers you can follow in order to increase your network and build relationships.
Attending conferences and meet-ups is another great way to make meaningful connections with relevant industry professionals in the real world. Find out what crypto conferences and events are taking place near you, try to attend and interact with the other guests, speakers and sponsors.
Find a niche and become an expert
Once you’ve learnt about the broader crypto industry, you’ll be developing your own specific areas of interest. This is a great way to start honing your knowledge and becoming an expert in that sector.
When you’ve found your niche, start writing about it. Whether it's on social media, for respected news sites or your own blog, writing about crypto is not only a good way to understand the intricacies of your niche, but it also shows potential employers that you’re proactive and knowledgeable enough about the subject matter to be published.
And you may even build your own following from creating content around crypto and blockchain technology. Again, this is very desirable to employers in the crypto space, and with your own network, who knows what opportunities might fall in your lap!
Crypto is continuing to grow despite the bear market and crypto winter we’re experiencing. So when you do get offered an interview, be prepared to discuss how you can work remotely and as part of a global team across different timezones. And of course, research the project and make sure you’ve got some insightful, specific questions to ask about it.
Good luck!
Contact our Talent Manager to find out about career opportunities: [email protected]
#crypto #cryptojobs #defi