Getting hired at Google after 20 rejections — Hacking the process | Summary and Q&A

TL;DR

Michael Brown, a former business owner, shares his story of breaking into Google by taking an unconventional route and showcasing his value through data-driven experiments.

Key Insights

• 😚 Perseverance and creativity can help individuals find alternative paths to success, even when the front door seems closed.
• 📽️ Google offers opportunities beyond traditional job applications, such as internal startup projects staffed through contracting companies.
• 🤪 Adding value and going above and beyond what is expected can resonate with potential employers, even in highly competitive environments like Google.
• 💡 A data-driven and meritocratic culture at Google rewards individuals who demonstrate exceptional effort and impactful ideas.
• 🧘 The human aspect of Google should not be overlooked, as employees are receptive to receiving valuable contributions, regardless of their position.
• 🤗 Leveraging personal connections, such as reaching out to influencers or industry leaders, can open doors to unexpected opportunities.
• 🎚️ Starting at a lower-level position can serve as a stepping stone to higher-level roles within a company, provided one actively seeks opportunities to contribute and make a difference.

Transcript

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Questions & Answers

Q: How did Michael Brown initially try to enter Google, and what challenges did he face?

Brown applied to 20 or 30 jobs at Google but faced rejection emails, feeling that his resume, background, and education weren't competitive enough.

Q: How did Michael Brown find an alternative way into Google?

He discovered that Google had internal startup projects outsourced to contracting companies, which allowed him to apply for positions outside of the traditional recruitment process.

Q: What was Michael Brown's first role at Google?

Brown started as a grocery picker, selecting items off store shelves for one of Google's projects. Although it was a low-skill job, he saw it as a way to enter the company.

Q: How did Michael Brown demonstrate his value and contribute to Google?

Brown actively looked for opportunities to add value, conducting tests, creating spreadsheets, and running experiments to optimize processes within the projects he was a part of. He shared his findings with anyone in the organization and believed that hard work and valuable contributions would be recognized by Google.

Q: How did Michael Brown initially try to enter Google, and what challenges did he face?

Brown applied to 20 or 30 jobs at Google but faced rejection emails, feeling that his resume, background, and education weren't competitive enough.

More Insights

• Perseverance and creativity can help individuals find alternative paths to success, even when the front door seems closed.

• Google offers opportunities beyond traditional job applications, such as internal startup projects staffed through contracting companies.

• Adding value and going above and beyond what is expected can resonate with potential employers, even in highly competitive environments like Google.

• A data-driven and meritocratic culture at Google rewards individuals who demonstrate exceptional effort and impactful ideas.

• The human aspect of Google should not be overlooked, as employees are receptive to receiving valuable contributions, regardless of their position.

• Leveraging personal connections, such as reaching out to influencers or industry leaders, can open doors to unexpected opportunities.

• Starting at a lower-level position can serve as a stepping stone to higher-level roles within a company, provided one actively seeks opportunities to contribute and make a difference.

• Taking initiative and doing work that is not explicitly asked of you can make a significant impression on potential employers and increase the chances of landing a desired job.

Summary

This video features a conversation with Michael Brown, who found a unique way to break into Google. After facing financial difficulties due to the economic crisis, Michael was determined to find a fresh start in the tech industry. Despite facing numerous rejections, he discovered that Google has internal startups managed through contracting companies. Michael applied through one of these companies and secured a low-skill job as a grocery picker, which served as his initial entry point into Google. He then actively looked for opportunities to add value, conducting tests and providing valuable insights. Eventually, his dedication paid off, and he was noticed by the management team, leading to more significant roles and projects at Google.

Questions & Answers

Q: How did Michael break into Google?

Michael initially applied to various positions at Google but faced multiple rejections. However, he discovered that Google has internal startups managed through contracting companies. He applied through one of these companies and secured a job as a grocery picker, which served as his entry point into Google.

Q: What did Michael do to make an impact at Google?

Michael actively looked for opportunities to add value. He conducted tests, made spreadsheets, and analyzed processes to optimize and provide valuable insights. He worked on projects like introducing frozen foods into the catalog and testing different optimization methods.

Q: How did Michael's approach differ from his coworkers?

Unlike his coworkers who were merely doing the work, hoping to get noticed, Michael went above and beyond. He actively sought opportunities to contribute, understanding that Google values individuals who think like owners and go the extra mile.

Q: What was the initial response from Google when Michael started sharing his reports and insights?

Initially, Michael received no response or acknowledgement for his efforts. His first report did not result in any breakthroughs or recognition, but he persisted and continued to improve his work.

Q: What kind of projects and processes did Michael work on at Google?

Michael worked on projects and processes related to time and motion study, route planning, and optimizing the handling and shipping of frozen foods. He used tools such as thermometers and stopwatches to gather data and analyze how to improve these areas.

Q: Why did Michael believe his efforts would be noticed and rewarded by Google?

Michael believed in Google's culture of being data-driven and meritocratic. He understood that Google values good work, valuable insights, and a proactive approach. While not every team may appreciate this, overall, the organization recognizes and rewards individuals who contribute in meaningful ways.

Q: What led to Michael's breakthrough and transition to other projects at Google?

Michael's dedication and continuous improvement led to his breakthrough. After sending a second report, he received an email from the management team expressing interest in his work. They scheduled an interview and offered him the opportunity to work on other projects within the organization.

Q: How did Michael's experience at Google progress after initially working as a grocery picker?

After two months as a grocery picker, Michael transitioned to working on larger-scale projects at Google's headquarters. He got to work on impactful projects and gained valuable experience during his time at the company.

Q: What advice did Michael receive from his grandfather that helped him in his journey to Google?

Michael's grandfather advised him to start sweeping the floors at a company in order to get a job. While this may not be practical in today's age, the core principle remains: start contributing in any way possible and do work that goes beyond what is asked of you. That's exactly what Michael did and how he managed to break into Google.

Q: How does Michael's story serve as a reminder to others?

Michael's story is a reminder that there are often alternative ways to enter a company, even if the front door seems closed. By thinking creatively and being proactive, individuals can find windows of opportunity and make a significant impact in their desired industry.

Takeaways

Michael's journey highlights the importance of perseverance, creativity, and proactivity when seeking opportunities in the tech industry. Instead of being deterred by rejections, he found a unique way to break into Google. By actively providing value, leveraging his skills, and thinking like an owner, Michael succeeded in gaining recognition and transitioning to more significant roles within the company. This serves as an inspiring reminder that there are multiple paths to success, and individuals should not be discouraged if the conventional route is challenging.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Michael Brown owned an assisted living facility but lost his business during the 2008 financial crisis, leading him to seek a fresh start in the technology industry.

• He applied for numerous jobs at Google but received rejection emails, pushing him to explore alternative pathways into the company.

• Brown discovered that Google had internal startup projects staffed through contracting companies and secured an interview by applying through their portal. He initially worked as a low-level employee, but his persistence and dedication to adding value eventually led to more significant opportunities.