Stage 1 · Lesson 5 of 7
A tiered company list
Build a : 30 to 50 companies that hire your at your level and fit , split into three tiers. Stretch companies are ones you would love to join, but your odds are lower. Realistic ones match your level and skills.
Safe ones are likely to invite you to a first round. Apply across all three. Consider starting with realistic and safe companies, so your first rounds are practice rather than your dream job.
Include local , , startups and remote employers, not only the names everyone knows.
Common trapa list of ten famous companies, which leaves you with nothing when two of them reject you in the same week.
A question to check yourself, an AI practice session and 1 cheat sheet entry come with the full roadmap. Unlock
Resources for this stage
Keep handy
Also worth your time
What hiring managers score beyond skills, so your target sheet covers projects and communication
- The Pragmatic EngineerGo deeper
How hiring and pay work right now at tech companies, when you want the wider market picture