Breaking into top Silicon Valley companies such as Apple, Meta, and Google has always been difficult—and today’s Gen Z job seekers are facing even tougher conditions, according to Asana CEO Dan Rogers.
Despite the rise of artificial intelligence and the continued growth of the tech sector, Rogers says the competition for entry-level positions at major tech firms remains extremely intense. Hiring freezes, layoffs, and growing concerns about AI replacing certain roles have made the environment even more challenging for young professionals trying to start their careers in Silicon Valley.
Some job seekers have attempted unconventional tactics to stand out. Stories have circulated of candidates delivering donut boxes filled with résumés to company offices, sending cold emails to executives, or creating viral stunts online to get noticed by recruiters.
However, Rogers believes flashy tactics rarely lead to lasting success. Instead, he recommends a slower and more strategic approach: building strong experience over time, even if it means starting at smaller companies or in less glamorous roles.
According to Rogers, going straight from graduation to a major technology company is possible but unlikely for most candidates. Rather than focusing only on landing a job at the biggest firms immediately, he advises young professionals to develop skills and experience elsewhere first. Working at smaller organizations, in different regions, or in related industries can provide valuable exposure to real-world challenges and technical skills. Over time, that experience can make candidates far more attractive to large technology companies.
Rogers’ own career reflects this path. Originally from the small British town of Grimsby, he built his career through roles at companies such as Dell, Microsoft, Amazon Web Services, Salesforce, and ServiceNow before eventually becoming CEO of the workflow software company Asana in Silicon Valley. He says those varied roles helped him develop a broad set of skills that later made him competitive for leadership opportunities.
Rogers describes this approach as entering the industry through a “side door” rather than trying to walk straight through the front entrance of the biggest tech firms . He also emphasizes a mindset focused on learning rather than immediate financial rewards. Early in a career, he argues, professionals should prioritize gaining knowledge, experience, and practical skills instead of chasing high salaries right away.
According to Rogers, the most reliable way to build a successful career in technology is through patience, continuous learning, and gradually stacking valuable experiences . While unconventional job-hunting stunts might attract attention, he believes long-term skill building is ultimately the strategy that leads to lasting success in Silicon Valley.
