This is a comprehensive guide on how to pursue a career at Berkshire Hathaway. It's not a simple one-step process, so let's break it down and get you on the right path.
The Berkshire Hathaway Difference: More Than Just a Company
First, let's understand something crucial: Berkshire Hathaway isn't your typical company. It's a massive conglomerate, a holding company with a vast portfolio of businesses operating in diverse industries, from insurance and railroads to manufacturing, retail, and real estate. This decentralized structure is key to its success and its unique hiring process. You won't find a single "Berkshire Hathaway" careers page with all the jobs. Instead, you need to think like an investor and a strategist to find your place within the family of companies.
So, are you ready to embark on this journey and potentially join a team led by one of the greatest investors of all time? Let's get started.
Step 1: Understand the Ecosystem and Find Your Niche
Think of Berkshire Hathaway as a galaxy, with Warren Buffett's main office in Omaha, Nebraska, as the sun, and the many subsidiaries as planets, each with its own atmosphere, culture, and orbit. You won't be applying to the sun directly for most roles. Instead, you'll be looking for a job on one of the planets.
Know the Subsidiaries: This is the most critical first step. Berkshire Hathaway's portfolio includes well-known companies like GEICO, BNSF Railway, Dairy Queen, See's Candies, and a multitude of others in insurance, manufacturing, and services. You need to research these companies and identify where your skills and interests align.
Start with Your Expertise: Are you a data scientist? An insurance claims adjuster? A real estate agent? A retail manager? Whatever your field, there is likely a Berkshire Hathaway subsidiary that needs your skills. For example, if you're a financial professional, you might look at Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance (BHSI) or one of the many other insurance companies. If you're an engineer, you could explore opportunities at BNSF Railway.
Actionable Tip: Don't just browse the Berkshire Hathaway Inc. website. Go to the websites of their individual subsidiaries. Each subsidiary manages its own hiring and has its own careers page.
Step 2: Cultivate the "Buffett" Mindset and Build Your Profile
Warren Buffett famously looks for three qualities in people he hires: integrity, intelligence, and energy. He often says, "If you don't have the first, the other two will kill you." This is not just a catchy quote; it's the foundation of the company's culture.
Showcase Your Integrity: In your resume, cover letter, and interviews, emphasize your honesty, reliability, and ethical compass. Provide examples of times you've acted with integrity, even when it was difficult. This is the most important trait.
Demonstrate Your Intelligence: This isn't just about your GPA or degree. It's about your ability to solve problems, think critically, and learn continuously. Showcase your analytical skills and your curiosity. Be prepared to discuss challenges you've faced and how you've overcome them.
Radiate Energy: This translates to passion, dedication, and a strong work ethic. Show that you are enthusiastic about the work, proactive, and willing to go the extra mile. Don't just say you're a hard worker; provide tangible examples of your initiative and perseverance.
Step 3: The Application Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
Now that you've identified your target subsidiary and are embodying the right mindset, it's time to apply.
Step 3.1: Find the Right Portal. As mentioned, you'll need to go to the careers page of the specific subsidiary you're interested in. For instance, if you're looking for an insurance role, you might visit the Berkshire Hathaway Homestate Companies careers page on Myworkdayjobs.com. If you're a real estate professional, you would look at the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices website.
Step 3.2: Tailor Your Application. Do not send a generic resume and cover letter. This is a common mistake. Each application should be a masterpiece of customization.
Resume: Highlight experiences and skills that directly relate to the job description. Use keywords from the posting. Quantify your achievements (e.g., "Increased sales by 15%," "Managed a budget of $500,000").
Cover Letter: This is your chance to tell a story. Explain why you are passionate about this specific company and this specific role. Mention how your values align with Berkshire Hathaway's culture of integrity and long-term thinking.
Step 3.3: Network, Network, Network! While a cold application is a starting point, networking is often the key to getting your foot in the door.
Leverage LinkedIn: Find employees who work at your target subsidiary and respectfully connect with them. Ask for an informational interview to learn more about the company and their role.
Attend Industry Events: Look for conferences, workshops, and seminars in your field. You might meet people who work for a Berkshire Hathaway company.
Informational Interviews: When you get a chance to speak with someone, don't ask for a job. Ask for advice. Ask about their career path, the company culture, and what they look for in successful team members. This shows intelligence and energy.
Step 4: Ace the Interview: Focus on Character and Problem-Solving
The interview process at Berkshire Hathaway's subsidiaries can vary, but expect questions that go beyond just your technical skills.
Prepare Your "Stories": Instead of just listing your skills, prepare stories that demonstrate your integrity, intelligence, and energy. For example, be ready to discuss a time you had to make a difficult ethical decision, a complex problem you solved, or a time you went above and beyond for a project.
Be Honest and Direct: The interview will be a test of your character. Be yourself, be truthful, and be straightforward. Don't try to be someone you're not.
Show Your Business Acumen: Even if you're not applying for a finance role, show that you understand the business. Do your homework on the subsidiary, its industry, and its competitors. Be prepared to talk about how you can add value to the company.
Ask Thoughtful Questions: At the end of the interview, ask insightful questions. This demonstrates your intelligence and genuine interest. For example, you could ask, "What are the biggest challenges this team is facing right now?" or "How do you see this role contributing to the long-term success of the company?"
Step 5: Follow-Up and Patience
The hiring process can take time. After your interview, send a prompt and personalized thank-you note. This is a small but important step that shows your professionalism and attention to detail. Then, be patient. The right opportunity will come along if you've done the work.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to find job openings at Berkshire Hathaway? You need to search for job openings on the individual career websites of Berkshire Hathaway's subsidiaries, such as GEICO, BHHC, or Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, as the parent company does not have a centralized job portal for all its businesses.
How to get an internship at Berkshire Hathaway? Internship opportunities are also managed by the subsidiaries. To find them, visit the careers pages of various Berkshire Hathaway companies and look for "Internship" or "Early Careers" programs. Some companies, like Berkshire Hathaway GUARD, may offer internships.
How to prepare for a Berkshire Hathaway interview? Prepare to discuss your personal integrity, problem-solving skills, and work ethic. Be ready to share specific stories that demonstrate your character and your passion for the work.
How to stand out in a Berkshire Hathaway job application? Tailor your resume and cover letter for each specific role, highlighting how your skills and values align with the company's culture and the job description. Quantify your achievements and showcase your strong work ethic.
How to network with employees at Berkshire Hathaway? Use professional networking platforms like LinkedIn to connect with employees at the subsidiaries you are interested in. You can also attend industry conferences and events where you might meet people from their companies.
How to know if a job posting is for a Berkshire Hathaway company? Check the job description and the company's "About Us" section. Many subsidiaries will mention their affiliation with Berkshire Hathaway, Inc. You can also cross-reference the company's name with the list of Berkshire Hathaway's subsidiaries.
How to demonstrate integrity during the hiring process? Be honest and transparent in all your communications, from your resume to your interview answers. Don't exaggerate your experience or skills, and be ready to provide examples of times you made ethical choices.
How to show intelligence beyond my academic record? During the interview, demonstrate your critical thinking and problem-solving abilities by discussing complex projects you've worked on and how you approached challenges. Show curiosity by asking thoughtful questions about the company and the role.
How to find entry-level jobs at Berkshire Hathaway? While many roles are for experienced professionals, you can find entry-level positions and training programs at subsidiaries, especially in areas like insurance, real estate, and retail. Check the career pages for roles that mention "entry-level" or "training."
How to get a job at Warren Buffett's main office in Omaha? Jobs at the Omaha headquarters are extremely rare and highly sought after. They are typically for very senior-level financial and administrative roles. Your best bet is to build a successful career within a subsidiary first and then potentially explore opportunities at the parent company later on.