What Can Help You Get Hired by Elon Musk?
Ever dreamed about working for the world-renowned entrepreneur, philanthropist and inventor Elon Musk? You’re not alone. Elon is one of the most powerful people in the 21st century and serves as the current CEO and CTO of SpaceX, CEO, and product architect of Tesla Inc., and founder of The Boring Company. With such ingenuity and a remarkable track record behind him, it’s no wonder people aim to work for, or even learn from him. Landing a job working with Elon, or a similar high-profile executive, will open many doors for future career opportunities and is a valuable addition to any CV.
Getting hired by Elon Musk requires more than just a strong willingness to learn and a proficient skillset, however. Elaine Pofeldt, a Forbes contributor, explored the “elite coterie of elite execs”, including Elon Musk and identified five essential skills that are needed, in order to secure a job. These essential skills include certifications, lateral thinking, problem-solving, an ability to adapt, and an interest in a big-picture view. Elon hires people with these skills because they are key characteristics he deems to be a necessary part of any successful professional.
To give insight into the process, Pofeldt interviewed Khaled Naim, a talent acquisition associate at SpaceX, to gain further insight into the hiring process. Naim emphasizes the importance of research, going beyond the company mission and values, which can be found on the company website, and incorporating external information into the application. “You’ll want to dig deeper and actually figure out what problems the company is trying to solve, and how you’re going to be able to help,” Naim advises.
Going further into Elon’s methods of recruitment and what makes him stand out from the crowd is his focus on cultural fit. According to his former Recruiting Manager, Suzy Ryoo, this requires more than just a spotless résumé and strong technical skills. This means looking for potential employees that can communicate and collaborate together in a team-oriented space, as well as being able to perform individually. Rather than being able to fit into the traditional corporate job market, Elon only hires employees that present a unique perspective.
Beyond going the traditional way of applying via the company website or job sites, Hamilton Helmer, author of the book, Seven skills of highly successful Global Retail CEOs, acknowledges the importance of networking. While networking may be difficult, especially during the pandemic, it’s a valuable asset to have in a competitive job market. Utilizing social media platforms like LinkedIn, aspirants can join various professional groups related to the specific industry and search for direct connections that can possibly provide an introduction to the company.
Making an impression on Elon Musk or any other CEO of a major corporation requires more than just basic knowledge and skills. Prospective applicants must be sure to have their résumé up to date, stay knowledgeable about their desired industry, become a well respected networker, and possess the necessary skills that are vital for the job. Whether it’s hands-on experience, additional certifications, or research, the most important thing to remember is to be strategic in all decisions and look to add value, not just to the organization but to you as well.
How Important is a Good Understanding of the Business?
When looking to gain a career opportunity with Elon Musk, having a good understanding of the business and the industry it operates in is incredibly important. This knowledge is essential because it helps prospective employees establish an understanding of how their skills and experience can be used to benefit the company. Not only that, but having a broad view and up-to-date knowledge of the industry will also likely be among the desirable skills Elon looks for when selecting his candidates. Going beyond the regular job description criteria, having industry knowledge signals to Elon that the candidate is genuinely interested in the type of work he does.
This knowledge can be associated with various topics: the business itself, industry trends and competitors, the products, what makes the company competitive, the philosophy, and even the company’s brand image. Through the careful and well-informed exploration of each of these subjects, the prospective candidate will have equipped themselves with the knowledge necessary to make a good impression.
Candidates should be willing to research not just the industry, but also the specific job requirements and the level of expertise required. A potential applicant must be realistic; a degree in engineering or mathematics may be helpful, but Elon Musk is looking for a candidate that can stand out from the competition and fulfill the goals of the organization.
Of course, understanding the company and industry is just one part of the larger puzzle. A valued applicant needs to connect the practical problems of the industry with the solutions they can provide, that’s how they make an impact. The goal is to reach the interviewer on an intellectual level and show that your skillset is a perfect fit for the job.
Must Have Certifications for Securing a Job with Elon Musk
To build an impressive portfolio of certifications is a surefire way to stand apart from your competition and put yourself closer to landing a job. While certifications may not be essential, they can demonstrate your commitment and are a solid way to demonstrate competence in a particular field or profession. As technology advances, certifications are becoming even more important, particularly when seeking out jobs in tech and engineering.
When it comes to working for Elon Musk, there certain certifications he looks for specifically. These certifications should demonstrate technical knowledge and experience, as well as an understanding of the industry. A key certification to acquire is the Project Management Professional (PMP) certification from the Project Management Institute. This certification validates an individual’s expertise in the project management field, giving them the opportunity to lead teams and manage projects. Elon Musk is also known to look for applicants holding certification from the International Quality Network (IQN). This certification requires an individual to have a good understanding of the principles of quality management.
Alternatively, certifications such as Certified Six Sigma Green Belt, Certified Professional in Healthcare Quality, or Computer Forensics Professional are also a bonus. These certifications provide the opportunity to demonstrate knowledge of standards and regulations that are essential when it comes to working with Elon Musk.
Through understanding the necessary certifications and acquiring them oneself, applicants are able to showcase their knowledge in the required field. Such certifications and skills then allow them to stand out among the competition, while also validating their expertise in subject areas that Musk looks for in potential employees.
The Need to Exercise Data Analysis
The ability to use data analysis is another valuable skill to have when looking to get hired by Elon Musk. With many businesses, having the skills to analyze data is becoming increasingly important, and the same is true for working for the CEO. Data analysis and analytics are processes that require not only critically analyzing existing data, but also applying statistical methods and algorithms to carve out conclusions and insights.
As a result, many professionals, who are looking to apply for jobs in Musk’s organizations, should consider acquiring data analysis skills, by taking a course, such as data mining, predictive analytics, or statistical analysis. Such skills can be very valuable and sought after, particularly when it comes to roles associated with research and development.
Elon’s organizations are increasingly becoming technology based, meaning a strong understanding of data is essential, especially when launching new products. The ability to utilize analytics, create models, and conduct critical assessments and diagnoses is invaluable. Being able to operate in data-driven fields is a great way to make yourself stand out, while also getting a step closer to gaining a job position.
The Need for Lateral Thinking
A valuable asset to have when looking to gain a job with Elon Musk is the ability to think outside the box, also known as lateral thinking. As the CEO of multiple organizations, Musk is always looking for novel approaches to the problems and issues he and his teams face. Thinking laterally requires a certain level of creativity, as this technique involves the generation of fresh and original responses, rather than looking for an answer that might already exist.
Lateral thinking can also be used to form new insights, identify strategies, and develop strategies and plans to tackle any type of problem that arises. As such, Musk looks to find potential employees that are able to do just that. A person, who can think outside the box and come up with unconventional solutions, is likely to be highly regarded in Musk’s selection process.
The ability to comprehend multiple resources through lateral thinking also allows individuals to be light on their feet, which can make a considerable difference when it comes to working in the multi-faceted environment that comes along with working for the CEO. Additionally, lateral thinking also allows potential employees to come up with strategies and plans that provide the same outcome, but in a more efficient manner.
Being Adaptable Is Essential
In such a fast-paced environment, being able to adapt and think on your feet is essential. Elon Musk is known to make quick decisions, which means those who work with him must be prepared at all times. As a result, being able to quickly comprehend tasks, as well as handle changes in policies, is a highly sought-after attribute.
Additionally, to work for Musk, you must be sure to develop the necessary problem-solving skills and the resilience to be able to keep up with the pace of work. This includes being able to receive feedback, learn the skills quickly, and respond efficiently and accurately.
In such a competitive job market, having the ability to self-start and acquire the skills needed is a valuable advantage, as it allows potential employees to be ready for anything that might come their way. Musk may change the game plan from time to time and those who have the ability to rapidly adapt and assess the situation, are more likely to succeed in such an environment.
Broad Perspective
When looking to work with Elon Musk, having a broad perspective is essential. Adaptations can come in various forms and having the ability to identify and understand the bigger picture of one’s current role is an important factor. Being able to focus on the end goal, rather than the details of particular tasks and projects, is the key to being successful. Having experience and the ability to see beyond the obvious is an ability that Musk looks for in potential employees.
Additionally, having a broad perspective also means being able to make connections between various projects, tasks, and processes. Musk requires his employees to analyze the short and long-term implications of certain scenarios, so as to make informed decisions about various initiatives. In many cases, being able to choose the correct option in a dilemma involves utilizing what already exists and finding creative solutions. Knowing when to employ strategy, which measures to take, and how to find the most successful resolution, is a valuable asset Musk looks for.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when it comes to working with Elon Musk, or any other high-profile executive, having the skills to back it up is the best way to make a lasting impression. From understanding the industry to having certifications and being able to exercise data analysis or lateral thinking, along with being adaptable and having a broad perspective, making it all the way to work a job with the CEO means having the right set of skills.
These skills don’t come overnight and may require a few training courses and a considerable amount of research. Even then, having a strong network and the willingness to learn and be a team player is essential in order to secure a job working with the CEO. All of these considerations, combined, can go a long way in making sure you’re the perfect candidate for the job and successful in getting hired by Elon Musk.
