Want to Work in Web3? DAOs Might Be Your Next Stop

When I first started recruiting in Web3, I heard about DAOs—Decentralised Autonomous Organisations—everywhere. But back then, DAOs felt more like experiments than anything people would consider a career option. Fast forward a few years, and they’ve transformed into dynamic hubs where you can find vibrant communities, endless projects, and flexible work structures. Want to work in Web3? DAOs might just be your best bet. But what does working in a DAO actually look like? Let’s break it down.

What’s the DAO Buzz All About?

The word “DAO” itself sounds cryptic at first. Why not just call it a “community” or a “project”? But a DAO is more than just a buzzword—it’s a whole new way of structuring work. DAOs operate without a central authority, allowing members to vote on decisions and collectively steer the ship. Sounds wild, right? Yet it’s this democratic structure that draws people in, especially those fed up with traditional corporate hierarchies.Take the example of Bankless DAO. It started as a media company but morphed into a full-fledged DAO with content creators, developers, and marketers all coming together to support each other. Members earn tokens, share profits, and take ownership of their work. For people entering Web3, Bankless DAO offers a launchpad to not only learn but to build, collaborate, and make an impact.What’s in it for you? DAOs let you dive right in, often without lengthy interviews or red tape. Got skills in content creation, marketing, or dev work? Chances are there’s a DAO out there looking for your expertise.

The Flexibility You Crave—And the Responsibility That Comes With It

One of the biggest draws to DAOs is the flexibility. Forget about 9-to-5s or rigid office culture; DAO members work on their own schedules, often from wherever they please. But here’s the catch: with flexibility comes a hefty dose of responsibility. DAOs depend on active, engaged members, and there’s no manager to keep you on task. It’s truly decentralised—meaning, you’re accountable to yourself and to your peers.I once had a candidate who thrived in Web3 marketing but felt stifled in traditional roles. When she joined a DAO, it was like a breath of fresh air. Her days were fluid; she worked when inspiration struck and got to choose her projects. But she also realised the freedom came with high expectations. Members voted on the quality of her work, and she had to keep proving her value. For her, this freedom and accountability were the perfect mix.Real talk: If you’re looking for a place to coast, DAOs aren’t for you. But if you’re driven, creative, and self-motivated, they’re a goldmine.

Earning in DAOs: Tokens, Governance, and Value

One of the most interesting aspects of DAOs is their payment structure. Want to work in Web3? Many DAOs offer tokens instead of traditional fiat payments like dollars or pounds. These tokens might represent ownership in the DAO or grant voting rights. For example, Uniswap DAO rewards contributors with UNI tokens, which members can use to participate in governance or hold as an investment.This model of “sweat equity” appeals to those who believe in Web3’s long-term potential. Yes, it’s a gamble—tokens fluctuate, and the market is volatile. But for some, this risk is worth the potential rewards. I’ve seen professionals walk away with tokens that later skyrocketed in value. Others, not so much. DAOs like MakerDAO and Aave DAO have offered high-value tokens to contributors that, when held, turned into significant assets as their ecosystems grew.A bit of advice: Before you jump in, research the DAO’s token and its value. If you’re hoping to rely on it as a stable income, understand the risks. For many, contributing to a DAO is an investment of time with the hope that the tokens will appreciate, but it’s not for the faint of heart.

Growing Your Web3 Network—One Project at a Time

DAOs are not just workspaces; they’re incredible networking hubs. Unlike in a traditional job, where you’re limited to colleagues in the same company, in a DAO, you’re in a space that attracts people from various backgrounds and countries. Working alongside crypto developers, designers, marketers, and Web3 enthusiasts means you’re constantly learning, sharing, and growing.Consider Friends With Benefits (FWB), a social DAO that connects creatives and entrepreneurs who are passionate about Web3. FWB doesn’t just give you a project; it’s an entry point into a network where people are building the future of Web3. Members often end up collaborating on multiple DAOs or spin-off projects, creating a virtuous cycle of innovation and connection.From personal experience, working in a DAO opens doors. Want to work in Web3? I’ve seen candidates who initially joined a DAO for side projects land major roles in established crypto companies because of the skills and network they developed. DAOs aren’t just a job; they’re an investment in your future network.Pro tip: Approach every interaction as a networking opportunity. These people could be your future co-founders, partners, or mentors.

Is a DAO Right for You?

DAOs are exciting, challenging, and full of opportunity, but they’re not for everyone. If you crave stability and predictability, traditional roles might suit you better. But if you’re willing to embrace flexibility, responsibility, and a bit of risk, DAOs offer a unique path into the Web3 world that few other opportunities can match.Want to work in Web3? DAOs are becoming a major player in this evolving space. They offer real, meaningful ways to work in an industry that’s rewriting the rules as it grows. Joining one might just be the next best move you make.