Unconventional Hiring Approach Draws Attention
A Bengaluru AI startup, Smallest AI, has sparked widespread online discussion with its innovative hiring strategy. The company’s founder, Sudarshan Kamath, recently posted a job listing on his X (formerly Twitter) account, announcing an annual salary package of ₹40 lakh for a full-time software engineer position. The role is open to fresh graduates and candidates with up to two years of experience, with a key differentiating factor: educational qualifications and traditional resumes are not required.
Instead of conventional application processes, Kamath invited candidates to submit a brief 100-word introduction along with links to their best work. The job posting emphasized a skills-first approach, stating, “We are looking to hire a cracked full-stack engineer at Smallest AI. Send a small 100-word text introducing yourself + links to your best work to info@smallest.ai.” The offer includes a base salary ranging from ₹15-25 lakh, supplemented by employee stock ownership plans (ESOPs) worth ₹10-15 lakh. The selected candidate is expected to join immediately and work from the company’s Indiranagar office five days a week.
Online Reaction: Praise and Skepticism
The job advertisement from the Bengaluru AI startup quickly went viral, amassing over 3.3 lakh views. Social media users were split in their responses. Many praised the company’s progressive stance on hiring, applauding its focus on talent rather than formal qualifications. One user commented, “This sounds like a great opportunity for budding engineers. I hope you find the right talent to join your team!” Another added, “Amazingggg! This is how future recruitments will take place.”
However, some skeptics questioned the offer’s appeal, particularly regarding the salary breakdown and work expectations. One user, highlighting the job’s stringent requirements, noted, “Everybody wants a cracked engineer. I’m not cracked but surely can help your company grow. Plus, I have a college degree and 2+ years of experience.”
Debate Over Compensation and Work Conditions
While the job offer from the Bengaluru AI startup appeared attractive at first glance, some users pointed out potential concerns about cost of living and financial viability. A critical comment read, “It’s not even a decent, half-attractive package. ‘Cracked,’ ‘full-stack,’ and ‘5 days at office’ deserve much more than 25L fixed and a bunch of promises.” Others highlighted Bengaluru’s high living expenses, particularly in Indiranagar, where the company is located. One user calculated that after deductions, the in-hand salary would be around ₹1 lakh per month, with approximately ₹35,000 spent on shared accommodation, followed by additional expenses on groceries, weekends, and loan EMIs. “Feel yourself lucky if you can save ₹20,000,” they remarked.
Despite the mixed reactions, The Bengaluru AI Startup’s unconventional hiring approach has successfully ignited a broader conversation about modern recruitment trends, skills-based selection, and evolving job market expectations. Whether this strategy proves effective remains to be seen, but it undoubtedly challenges traditional hiring norms.
