×
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
There's an ATS (Greenhouse), but at Substack, referrals get priority. Your cold application competes with sourced candidates and internal recommendations.
Who to contact at Substack
Contact route not yet verified for Substack. For a 50-200-person B2B, Marketing company, expect the hiring manager or department lead to make the call — but this is a model, not confirmed data.
What Substack screens for
The hiring bar at this stage (, B2B, Marketing): relevant experience and ability to operate autonomously. Show what you've shipped.
Customize your CV for the Substack role. Matching the job description language helps clear ATS filters.
Mistakes that kill applications
A recycled CV gets rejected fast at Substack (50-200 people). They notice.
Don't open with what you want. Open with what Substack is dealing with right now — is growing fast after their null round, and what you'd do about it.
The wait-and-hope strategy fails. Follow up on day five — response rates roughly double.
Frequently asked questions
How do I apply to Substack?
Through the roles on our Substack jobs page, or directly to the hiring manager or department lead if you can reach them. At 50-200 people, direct outreach outperforms the form.
Does Substack respond to cold emails?
Response rate data for Substack not yet confirmed.
Who is the hiring manager at Substack?
At this size, hiring is usually run by the hiring manager or department lead.
What ATS does Substack use?
Substack uses Greenhouse.
How competitive is it to get hired at Substack?
Expect 150-300 applicants in the first two weeks for B2B, Marketing roles at this size. Apply within 72 hours for best odds.
Have your application sent for you
We find roles at companies like Substack within 48 hours of them appearing, build a CV tailored to the posting, and send it while you're still applicant number ten.
Get early access →