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How to Actually Get Hired
Who reads applications, which channel gets a reply, and what they screen for.
Why applying the normal way doesn't work
kayak uses an ATS (Ashby), but referrals still come first. Cold applications aren't ignored — they're just behind referrals, sourced candidates, and recruiter picks.
Who to contact at kayak
We haven't verified a contact route at kayak yet. At people in Consumer, the decision-maker is almost always the hiring manager, but that's a model, not something we've confirmed. We're working on it, and members get verified contacts first.
What kayak screens for
At in Consumer, hiring bars concentrate on relevant experience and ability to operate autonomously — shipped work over credentials, and evidence you can operate without process.
Don't send a generic CV to kayak. Mirror the job posting's language to get past automated screening.
Mistakes that kill applications
At people, a copy-paste CV is immediately obvious. It's an instant no.
Lead with their problem, not your ambition. kayak is focused on is growing fast after their null round — show you understand that.
Don't apply and wait. The median Consumer application gets no response ever. One follow-up at day five roughly doubles reply rates.
Frequently asked questions
How do I apply to kayak?
Through the roles on our kayak jobs page, or directly to the hiring manager if you can reach them. At null people, direct outreach outperforms the form.
Does kayak respond to cold emails?
We're still collecting cold email data for kayak.
Who is the hiring manager at kayak?
At this size, hiring is usually run by the hiring manager.
What ATS does kayak use?
kayak uses Ashby.
How competitive is it to get hired at kayak?
-person Consumer companies see ~100-250 applicants per role in two weeks. The 72-hour window is your advantage.
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