Every Engineer Sucks at Job Hunting Until They Learn This

There are three ways to get into a company: The front door, the side door, and the window.

Everyone initially tries the front door because it only requires a resume and a LinkedIn. However, the front door’s low barrier to entry makes it competitive and strips you of your leverage.

Getting in through the side door or window, on the other hand, requires an unconventional set of beliefs and techniques that make most developers uncomfortable. 90% of them refuse to approach these entry points, making them less competitive for the few who can tolerate the discomfort.

This talk is about narrative: how it works in the hiring process, how to craft yours, and the types of stories to avoid at all costs.

During the first half, I’ll explain the difference between the side door and window and why choosing an archetype is a non-negotiable prerequisite for both.

During the second half, I’ll offer 10 archetypes you can choose from, along with a popular engineer who embodies it. Some examples:

• The Principled Prince (Bret Victor)
• The Guinea Pig (Fireship)
• The Craftsman (DHH)
• The Sailor (Linus Torvalds)

Finally, we'll apply the theory with a quiet, individual writing exercise.

By the end, you’ll have the outline of a remarkable story that will make you stand out and get the job offer you deserve on your terms.

If you already get tons of interviews from the LinkedIn Easy Apply button, then this talk isn’t for you. If you’re committed to grinding Leetcode and blindly applying to hundreds of jobs until you get lucky, this talk isn’t for you.

This is for those who are sick of brute-forcing their careers. They’re good at their craft, but aren’t getting enough opportunities. It’s for those who pass the first few rounds, but don’t get offers. More than anything, it’s for those who recognize that humans make decisions based on emotions and good stories.

On the fence? Think of this talk as the offspring of these two videos:

• is it impossible to get a junior developer job in 2026? (me)
• Inventing on Principle (Bret Victor)

• Beginner
• Soft Skills
• Careers