Ready to embark on a journey that could lead you to work for one of the most respected and successful companies in the world? Joining Berkshire Hathaway is not like applying to a typical corporation. It's a unique process that requires understanding its distinct structure and values. Let's dive in and see how you can become part of the legendary Berkshire Hathaway family.
Step 1: Understand the Berkshire Hathaway Ecosystem
Before you even think about submitting a resume, you need to grasp a fundamental concept: Berkshire Hathaway is not a single company with one massive HR department. It is a conglomerate, a holding company that owns a diverse portfolio of businesses across numerous industries. These include well-known names like GEICO, BNSF Railway, Duracell, Dairy Queen, and many, many more.
So, the question "How do I join Berkshire Hathaway?" is really a question of which Berkshire Hathaway company do you want to join?
Ask yourself this: What are your skills? What industry are you passionate about? Are you an insurance professional, a railroad engineer, a real estate agent, a software developer, or a claims adjuster? The opportunities are vast, but they are decentralized. You won't find a single "Berkshire Hathaway Jobs" portal for the entire conglomerate.
This is the first and most crucial step. Pinpoint which of the dozens of subsidiary companies aligns with your career goals and expertise.
Step 2: Find the Right Door – The Subsidiary's Career Page
Once you have identified a subsidiary or a few subsidiaries that interest you, your job search begins at their individual career pages.
Sub-heading: Searching for Job Openings
Don't search for "Berkshire Hathaway jobs" on general job boards first. While some may be listed, the most comprehensive and up-to-date listings will be on the company's own website. For example, if you're interested in insurance, you would go to the GEICO or National Indemnity Company career page. For energy, you would visit the Berkshire Hathaway Energy careers site.
Use keywords effectively. On Google or other search engines, use search terms like:
"Berkshire Hathaway [Subsidiary Name] careers"
"[Subsidiary Name] jobs"
"Careers at [Subsidiary Name]"
Explore variety. Some subsidiaries, like Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, are a franchise network, meaning you would apply to a local real estate office. Others, like BNSF, have dedicated career portals for specific roles like train conductors, engineers, and IT specialists.
Step 3: Tailor Your Application to the "Buffett Principles"
This is where you demonstrate that you understand the unique culture of Berkshire Hathaway. While you are applying to a specific subsidiary, the overarching values of Warren Buffett's leadership permeate the entire organization.
Sub-heading: The Three Core Qualities
According to Warren Buffett, when hiring, he looks for three things: intelligence, energy, and integrity. He famously adds that "if you don't have the first, the other two will kill you." This means integrity is paramount.
Intelligence: This doesn't just mean a high IQ. It means the ability to learn, adapt, and think critically. Your resume and cover letter should highlight problem-solving skills, academic achievements, and continuous learning.
Energy: This is about your drive and work ethic. Show that you are a go-getter who is proactive and dedicated. Use action verbs and quantifiable achievements in your resume.
Integrity: This is the most important quality. It's about being honest, trustworthy, and having a strong moral compass. While this is hard to show on a resume, it will shine through in your cover letter, interviews, and professional references. In your cover letter, you can allude to your commitment to ethical behavior and long-term value creation.
Sub-heading: Show Your Entrepreneurial Spirit
Berkshire Hathaway's decentralized model empowers managers and employees to take ownership of their work. They are not micromanaged from the Omaha headquarters.
In your application, highlight experiences where you demonstrated initiative, took ownership of a project, or solved a problem independently. Show that you are a self-starter who thrives in an environment with high levels of trust and autonomy.
Mention your long-term perspective. Berkshire Hathaway is known for its buy-and-hold philosophy. Show that you are interested in a career, not just a job, and that you are committed to the long-term success of the company.
Step 4: Prepare for the Interview
Once you get an interview, you're not just being tested on your technical skills. You're being evaluated on your character and alignment with the company's culture.
Sub-heading: Research, Research, Research
Know the subsidiary inside and out. Go beyond the job description. Understand their business model, their key products or services, their competitors, and recent news about them.
Familiarize yourself with Berkshire Hathaway's history and values. Read Warren Buffett's annual letters to shareholders. They are a masterclass in business philosophy and provide deep insights into the company's culture and priorities. You don't need to be a stock market expert, but you should understand the core principles of value investing and long-term thinking.
Sub-heading: Behavioral Questions are Key
Expect questions that probe your integrity and work ethic. Be ready to share stories that demonstrate your character.
Example questions to prepare for:
"Tell me about a time you had to make a difficult ethical decision."
"Describe a situation where you had to work with a difficult colleague. How did you handle it?"
"What do you do when you are faced with a challenging problem and don't have all the answers?"
"Tell me about a time you made a mistake at work. What did you learn?"
Remember, they are looking for honesty and a willingness to learn, not perfection.
Step 5: Consider a Non-Traditional Path
If a direct corporate role isn't an option, there are other ways to get involved with the Berkshire Hathaway network.
Internships: Many subsidiaries, such as Berkshire Hathaway GUARD Insurance, offer paid internships. This is an excellent way to get your foot in the door, gain experience, and potentially secure a full-time position after graduation.
Real Estate: Becoming a real estate agent with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices is a common path. This involves joining a local franchise and building your own business under the brand's umbrella.
Skilled Trades: Companies like Acme Brick and Precision Castparts are always looking for skilled workers, from technicians and engineers to laborers and administrative staff. These are often hands-on roles that are vital to the operations of the subsidiaries.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to find job openings at Berkshire Hathaway?
You need to search for job openings on the individual career pages of the many subsidiary companies owned by Berkshire Hathaway. There is no single centralized job portal for the entire conglomerate.
How to get an internship at a Berkshire Hathaway company?
Many subsidiaries offer internships. You should visit the career sections of companies like GEICO, National Indemnity, or Berkshire Hathaway Energy and look for "internship" or "early careers" programs.
How to know which Berkshire Hathaway subsidiary is hiring?
The best way is to visit the websites of the subsidiaries directly. Companies like BHHS, GEICO, and BNSF Railway regularly post their open positions on their own career portals. You can also use job search engines and filter by company name.
How to apply for a job with Warren Buffett directly?
You cannot apply for a job with Warren Buffett directly. He does not oversee the hiring for the subsidiaries. Your application will be handled by the HR department of the specific company you are applying to.
How to write a resume for a Berkshire Hathaway company?
Your resume should highlight intelligence, energy, and integrity. Emphasize quantifiable achievements, a strong work ethic, and a willingness to take ownership of projects. Tailor your resume to the specific job description and company culture.
How to prepare for a Berkshire Hathaway interview?
Thoroughly research the subsidiary and its business. Be prepared to answer behavioral questions that assess your character, problem-solving skills, and ethical decision-making. Read Warren Buffett's letters to shareholders to understand the company's core values.
How to get a job at GEICO, a Berkshire Hathaway company?
To get a job at GEICO, you need to visit their dedicated careers website and search for open positions in areas like claims, sales, customer service, and IT. They have their own hiring process separate from the Berkshire Hathaway corporate office.
How to become a real estate agent with Berkshire Hathaway?
You would need to get your real estate license and then join a local Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices franchise. This is a network of independently owned and operated offices.
How to demonstrate integrity in a job application?
While you can't state "I have integrity" on a resume, you can show it through your actions and experiences. In your cover letter and interview, tell stories that demonstrate honesty, accountability, and a commitment to doing the right thing, even when it's difficult.
How to show a long-term mindset to a Berkshire Hathaway company?
During your interview, express your interest in a career, not just a job. Discuss your desire to grow with the company and contribute to its sustained success. Ask about opportunities for professional development and advancement within the organization.