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Comment by nostrademons | Hacker News Reader

I actually really enjoyed my job at Google. Stayed there for 5+ years. I got it through really knowing Javascript well right when it was becoming hot in 2008, really knowing my CS algorithms and being able to think on my feet, and through having a friend that could refer me. Mostly the Javascript and algorithms though, I think.

If I were to give some advice, it would probably be to focus on the craft rather than on the job. Work to become the best engineer you can, and treat each job as an opportunity to gain more experience doing that. The jobs will come naturally, once you've gotten the first couple to take a chance on you.

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I mean, my application to Google will be like my application to MIT. It'd be nice, but it's not realistic enough to bank on. You're right though, I should be thinking more big picture about the craft. Thank you.

Google was not my first job out of college. I worked for a couple startups first and then founded my own company, all to learn the craft. You have to work up to things, but that doesn't mean they're unattainable.

Hello Jonathan , I am trying for job at google but I haven't received any response. Would it be possible for you to refer me if I send you my resume ? Although , I haven't worked for very high profile companies like FB, Twitter , I am good at what I do. I would really appreciate your help if you can.

I don't work at Google anymore, so no, it's not possible for me to refer you.

thanks for replying.

..and why downvotes ? What's wrong in asking for referral ? HN is such a racist community.

I didn't downvote you, but I think that it may be the "Do unto everybody as you would have everybody do unto everybody else" principle. If everybody asked for a hiring referral from the Googlers/Facebookers/Tweeters on HN, then HN would promptly turn into LinkedIn. Except it'd be a LinkedIn where you have even less of a personal relationship with the folks you are networking with, no spam/privacy controls, and everything hangs out in public.

Also, nobody knows what race you are on the Internet unless you tell them, so it's a little disingenuous to play the race card.

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