Hiring Strategy: Automattic’s Approach to Remote Team Members

Introduction

Are you interested in joining the Automattic team? If so, you should be aware that their hiring process is quite unique and requires a certain level of initiative and proactive involvement. Automattic, known for its innovative and user-friendly WordPress platform, has its own distinct approach to hiring remote team members. This article details the specific steps and requirements that you need to meet to be considered for a position at Automattic.

Understanding Automattic's Hiring Philosophy

First and foremost, Automattic is not like other companies. They are a highly open and transparent organization that values self-motivated individuals who can demonstrate a level of ownership over their skills and experience. If you're looking to join the Automattic team, you need to showcase that you are not only capable but also eager to learn and grow within the framework that Alignment provides.

Active Participation in the WordPress Support Forum

One of the most important steps to get noticed by Automattic is to actively participate in the WordPress support forum. By helping and assisting other users, you not only gain valuable experience but also get a firsthand look into the common issues and challenges faced by WordPress users. Automattic has no time to provide extensive training from the ground up. This is your responsibility, and it's essential to take the initiative in contributing your own time to learn about the platform and its challenges.

Contribute to Open Source

WordPress is all about contributions, and Automattic expects you to contribute to the open source community. This could include fixing defects, assisting in documentation, creating free themes and plugins, or any other relevant work. Your experience in contributing to open source projects will be highly valued and can significantly improve your chances of being contacted by Automattic.

The Interview Process

Once you have demonstrated your worth through your contributions, you may be contacted for an online interview. This interview is not a one-time opportunity; if you are not selected the first time, do not give up. Automattic expects you to show dedication and resilience. It is essential to continue participating in the community and to apply for positions by submitting your resume.

Responsibilities and Self-Learning

Automattic is a learning organization. They do not provide extensive training on how to administer Linux servers, code, follow coding best practices, design plugins, or assist users effectively. These are skills that are assumed to be either already acquired or self-taught. Therefore, it is crucial to learn these skills before applying for a position with Automattic. Contributing to open source projects and actively participating in the WordPress support forum are effective ways to gain these skills.

Final Thoughts

Joining Automattic is an exciting opportunity, but it requires dedication and a willingness to take the initiative. By actively contributing to the WordPress ecosystem and demonstrating your commitment, you can increase your chances of being selected for a role within this innovative team.

Remember, the process can be challenging, but it is worth it. Keep contributing and showing your worth, and you will increase your chances of joining the Automattic team. Good luck!