Getting Started FAQ
Your essential guide to tech recruiting timelines, what works, and common questions.
The questions
Tech recruiting starts as early as August and as late as May. The timeline varies by company type:
- Big Tech (Amazon, Google, Apple, Adobe): Positions go live in the fall semester (August–November).
- Small to Mid-Sized Tech: Positions typically posted over winter break and spring semester (mid-January onward).
- Startups: Expect just-in-time hiring. Companies typically won't know if they'll need MBA interns until March/April, or right before the summer.
- Tailor your resume to the job posting. This is the #1 most important thing. Tech companies want to see experience in the position you're applying for.
- Apply early. Companies often stop reviewing applications once they have enough. Apply earlier rather than later.
- Connect with at least 1 individual. Reach out to an alum or someone in your network at the company to understand your fit and get insider perspectives.
No, many HTC members are career pivoters. Pivoting into tech from a non-tech background is common and welcomed. Tech companies value diverse perspectives and transferable skills.
Most tech positions that MBAs go to do not require technical skills. Roles that may require them include Technical Product Manager roles and some PM roles (e.g., Google sometimes looks for a CS/Engineering background).
For most PMM, BizOps, Strategy, Sales, Marketing, and People Ops roles, technical skills are not required.
Recruiting for startups generally does not occur until the spring. Mid-to-late stage startups start figuring out headcount in early spring (January–March). Key differences:
- More flexible hiring timelines
- Focus on culture fit and scrappiness
- Often require demonstrated passion for the mission
- May involve more interview rounds with different team members
- Equity compensation plays a bigger role
Large Tech: Most large tech companies do not care about a cover letter. If you are delaying your application to write one, apply sooner without it.
Small Tech & Startups: More important here. Expect to submit a cover letter and/or answer company-specific questions to demonstrate passion for the role.
- Skim the company's 10-K, the annual report every public company files. It tells you a lot about future goals and organizational structure.
- Connect with 1–2 individuals who work at the company to uncover culture and fit.
- Find a fellow Haasie who has interviewed there and ask for tips.
- Research recent news — product launches, partnerships, quarterly earnings, strategic initiatives.
- Prepare your stories using the STAR method (situation, task, action, result) with concrete examples of your impact.
- Practice case interviews for PM, PMM, and BizOps roles. Think through product, marketing, and business problems out loud.
Ask the club.
Reach out on Slack #club-htc, or join and get the full recruiting playbook, events, and alumni network.