How to find young, college-aged designers and programmers (physical location doesn't matter)

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

Hiring

asked Jul 9 '11 at 05:56

Nick
96 points

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 O Neal 13 years ago
Curious about the age requirements. Is for a better chance of hiring someone who has the hunger for success? – Tehnyit 13 years ago
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 13 years ago

4 Answers

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.

answered Jul 10 '11 at 15:44

Mariette Knoblauch
181 points

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.

answered Oct 3 '11 at 11:47

Pw.
123 points

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.)

answered Jul 10 '11 at 19:59

Susan Jones
4,128 points

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?

answered Oct 4 '11 at 03:09

Steve Jones
3,239 points