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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
There's an ATS (Ashby), but at Y Combinator, referrals get priority. Your cold application competes with sourced candidates and internal recommendations.
Who to contact at Y Combinator
No verified contact route for Y Combinator yet. Based on size (50-200) and sector (Fintech), the hiring manager or department lead is likely the decision-maker, but treat this as a model.
What Y Combinator screens for
The hiring bar at this stage (, Fintech): domain expertise and regulatory awareness. Show what you've shipped.
A tailored CV beats a generic one. Use Y Combinator's job description language to clear filters.
Mistakes that kill applications
A recycled CV gets rejected fast at Y Combinator (50-200 people). They notice.
Don't open with what you want. Open with what Y Combinator 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 Y Combinator?
Through the roles on our Y Combinator 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 Y Combinator respond to cold emails?
Response rate data for Y Combinator not yet confirmed.
Who is the hiring manager at Y Combinator?
At this size, hiring is usually run by the hiring manager or department lead.
What ATS does Y Combinator use?
Y Combinator uses Ashby.
How competitive is it to get hired at Y Combinator?
Expect 150-300 applicants in the first two weeks for Fintech roles at this size. Apply within 72 hours for best odds.
Have your application sent for you
We find roles at companies like Y Combinator within 48 hours of them appearing, build a CV tailored to the posting, and send it while you're still applicant number ten.
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