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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
Haystack is <50 people. No recruiter, no HR. Your application goes to a founder juggling everything. Cold outreach is how you actually get seen.
Who to contact at Haystack
No verified contact route for Haystack yet. Based on size (<50) and sector (B2B, Engineering, Product and Design), a founder or department head is likely the decision-maker, but treat this as a model.
What Haystack screens for
The hiring bar at this stage (, B2B, Engineering, Product and Design): relevant experience and ability to operate autonomously. Show what you've shipped.
A tailored CV beats a generic one. Use Haystack's job description language to clear filters.
Mistakes that kill applications
A recycled CV gets rejected fast at Haystack (<50 people). They notice.
Don't open with what you want. Open with what Haystack 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 Haystack?
Through the roles on our Haystack jobs page, or directly to a founder or department head if you can reach them. At <50 people, direct outreach outperforms the form.
Does Haystack respond to cold emails?
Not enough data yet on Haystack's cold email response rates.
Who is the hiring manager at Haystack?
At this size, hiring is usually run by a founder or department head.
What ATS does Haystack use?
Haystack uses Ashby.
How competitive is it to get hired at Haystack?
Typical applicant count for B2B, Engineering, Product and Design roles (<50 people): 50-100 in two weeks. Apply fast.
Have your application sent for you
We find roles at companies like Haystack 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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