Gen Z Job Hunt: Silicon Valley CEO Says Skip the Donut Résumés & Build Skills First

The perception that landing a job in Silicon Valley is more difficult for today’s Gen Z graduates than it was for previous generations is largely a myth, according to Dan Rogers, CEO of workflow software company Asana. Despite headlines about layoffs, hiring freezes and anxieties surrounding artificial intelligence, Rogers, a veteran of the tech industry himself, argues that breaking into the sector has “always been a long shot.”

Rogers, who hails from the small town of Grimsby in the UK, shared his perspective in a recent interview with Fortune, drawing on his own career path which included stints at tech giants like Dell, Microsoft, Amazon Web Services, Salesforce, and ServiceNow before landing at the helm of the $1.8 billion Asana. He emphasizes that a direct entry into a coveted role at companies like Apple, Meta, or Alphabet has never been guaranteed, and that building experience through “side doors” remains a viable strategy.

The “Side Door” Strategy for Tech Aspirants

The current environment, whereas presenting challenges like increased competition and AI-driven disruption, isn’t fundamentally different from the hurdles faced by earlier generations of tech hopefuls, Rogers contends. He recalls his own experience, noting that he never expected to immediately secure his dream job. Instead, he focused on gaining experience in roles where he could excel, gradually working his way towards his ultimate goals. This approach, he suggests, is still the most realistic path for many aspiring tech professionals.

Rogers’ advice to Gen Z isn’t about discovering a secret hiring hack or crafting a viral interview stunt. Instead, he advocates for a deliberate and patient approach to building a resume that commands attention, even if it requires years of experience in less prominent companies. He frames this as entering through the “side door” rather than attempting to force entry through the “front door.”

This perspective comes at a time when concerns about the job market for young people are particularly acute. Reports have highlighted the potential for AI to displace entry-level positions, leading to anxieties about a youth unemployment crisis. Goodwill’s CEO recently prepared for an influx of jobless Gen Zers, anticipating the impact of automation. However, Rogers suggests that even with the rise of AI, the demand for skilled tech professionals remains strong, and competition for those roles is fierce.

Building a “Donut Box” of Experience

Rogers describes his own career trajectory as a series of “side doors,” including significant roles in Texas and Seattle before ultimately arriving in Silicon Valley. By the time he reached San Francisco, he had accumulated a diverse skillset – what he jokingly refers to as his “donut box” of experience – that made him a valuable asset to potential employers. This analogy echoes a recent trend highlighted by Fortune, where job seekers have resorted to unconventional methods, like hand-delivering donut boxes filled with resumes, to stand out in a competitive market.

The Asana CEO stresses that the focus should be on acquiring skills, even if it means taking detours through smaller companies or adjacent industries. He believes that these experiences can be incredibly valuable, providing a foundation for future success. “There are incredible experiences that you can get, maybe in smaller companies, maybe in a slightly different region, maybe in a slightly adjacent category,” he explained to Fortune. “After a stint there, you would be super valuable.”

The Value of Learning Over Earning

Rogers’ philosophy centers around prioritizing learning over immediate financial gain, particularly in the early stages of a career. He recalls advice he once received: “learning before earning.” This principle, he argues, underscores the importance of investing in skill development before focusing solely on maximizing income. He believes that building a strong foundation of knowledge and experience is the key to long-term success in the tech industry.

This emphasis on continuous learning is particularly relevant in the rapidly evolving tech landscape. The proliferation of AI, while raising concerns about job displacement, is also creating modern opportunities for those with the skills to adapt and innovate. LinkedIn executives have argued against the notion that AI will imminently replace all jobs, suggesting that it will instead create new roles and opportunities.

Asana’s Focus on Collaboration Amidst AI Advancements

While Rogers’ comments address the broader job market, they also reflect Asana’s strategic direction. The company, valued at $1.8 billion, is currently focusing on leveraging AI to enhance collaboration among teams, rather than solely pursuing automation. Asana recently launched AI “teammates” in beta designed to facilitate teamwork and streamline workflows, signaling a commitment to human-centered technology.

This approach aligns with Rogers’ broader message: success in the tech industry isn’t solely about technical prowess, but also about adaptability, resilience, and a willingness to embrace unconventional paths. For Gen Z, navigating the complexities of the modern job market requires a long-term perspective, a commitment to continuous learning, and a willingness to explore opportunities beyond the most obvious routes.

Looking ahead, the key for aspiring tech professionals will be to focus on building a versatile skillset and gaining practical experience, regardless of the company or location. The “side door” may be the most realistic path to Silicon Valley success, and a “donut box” of diverse experiences could prove to be the most valuable asset in a competitive job market.