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I'm a co-founder of a profitable startup doing around a million in revenue a year. I'm having a great time and gaining lots of experience with this startup.

However, I have many other ideas floating in my head and I'm looking to find some young, talented designers and programmers. My current company operates 100% digitally, so physical location doesn't matter.

I have capital and firm grasp on the business-side of a startup. Where are some good communities and forums to find young, talented designers and programmers?

Thanks in advance!

  • Nick
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I almost don't think there is an easy way to do that. 1. There's a lot you gain from a physical interview. 2. Most college students don't list themselves in typical online job databases. 3. Few college students look off their campus when looking for jobs. Campuses often provide subsidized employment that's willing to pay more than they are worth. 4. You found one college age programmer right here.... – Billy ONeal Jul 8 '11 at 20:36
Curious about the age requirements. Is for a better chance of hiring someone who has the hunger for success? – tehnyit Jul 8 '11 at 22:19
Hey Nick, drop me an email at p_gururani "at" hotmail.com. I am starting my software development company which works exactly on the model that you are looking for. Will be happy to work with you. – Pradeep Jul 10 '11 at 18:16
Exactly why "young, college aged?" Cheapness? Or cultural fit to what you're doing? Or is it a behavioral thing - you just don't like older or even older than college aged workers because ... their experience intimidates you or threatens you? I'd really like to understand this. It seems to be a standing assumption in startup circles that deep or lengthy experience is not suitable and must be avoided for a startup. Ageism sucks. – user2757 Oct 3 '11 at 3:17

5 Answers

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If location doesn't matter, why does age? If you are in the US, you may be considered discriminatory in hiring for stating that you want to hire "young" employees. Describe the characteristics that you want instead - flexible, open to change, able to take direction, and be open-minded. Just because you have encountered some older people who were not open to change doesn't mean everyone is. Also, there may be older people who are still "early in their career" due to job changes.

BTW, even putting the upper limit at 35 is still age discrimination - 45 and older is the age range for discrimination complaints.

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There are heaps of places - a Google search will uncover them for you. A few to start you off are:

  • odesk.com
  • elance.com
  • 99designs.com

etc, etc

(I've made this a wiki so others can add to the list.)

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The job board at FreelanceSwitch.com for this reason - the crowd there is VERY young. Since that's what you are seeking. – user2757 Oct 3 '11 at 5:22
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Design wise you didn't mention what type of design? I would look at 99 designs for quality, you can see their work and most can be contacted. For programmers try freelancer.com or maybe if you like better communication in the Philippines onlinejobs.ph

Manny

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Hacker News is a popular online hangout for entrepreneurially-minded programmers. Becoming involved that community might be a good way to find the talent you're after.

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I assume you mean USD not ZWD, so how about the designers/programmers you have at your existing startup?

Or, how about asking them for recommmendations?

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