Jim Stroud’s The Recruiters Lounge

This job ad from Netflix is SOOO well done that I had to give it a shout-out on my blog. Why does this work? Let me count the ways…

1. It does not read like a recruitment advertisement! It feels like it was written by someone who really appreciates Netflix for who they are and genuinely likes what they do. There is no HR legalese lulling me into sleep, nor stock photography of people that I recognize from other careersites. You know, it comes across (to me) as a manifesto, a declaration of something special that I should feel privileged to be a member of.

2. As many companies do, they tout how beloved they are; but it seems to ring truer on this ad. (The link to research proving this seems incidental, I suppose because I have enjoyed their service in the past and can vouch as well.) Why? Because the delight of their customer is tied into the passion they have for movies; they LOVE movies (live and breathe movies) and customer delight is a by-product of that. Its almost to say, we are glad people love us, but even if they did not, we would still be spreading the love for as long as we are fiscally able.

3. They give real-life examples of how they fight for the little-guy, citing how Hotel Rwanda (an independent art film) is one of their Top 10 flicks due to the favor of the community. Who needs a huge marketing budget? What you really need are Netflix enthusiasts willing to divide the wheat from the chaff! So, not only are Netflix employees lovers of movies, but they are crusaders of good taste as well.

4. Want to know how to get ahead in the company? They lay it flatly on the line, “To understand the real values of a company, watch how people interact with one another, who gets promoted, and who is let go” and then they spell out 9 virtues (or is that bible verses?) that are both simple to understand and empowering as you read it. It reminds me of the type of content I would read from a self-help guru, but without sounding like it. I suppose its because its all written (from beginning to end) in one voice. I know that may sound weird, but I do not get the sense that this was written by a team of marketing experts (although that may have been the case), but a die-hard lover of Netflix. Perhaps a loyal customer who joined their ranks? But I digress…

5. I REALLY like the anti-establishment thing they have going on with their pitch for a strong work-ethic and responsibility. I quote, “For example, our vacation policy for salaried employees is “take some” - there is no limit on vacation as long you get your work done.” WHOA! How many companies do you know have the cajones to put that in print?

6. I REALLY like this as well, “We focus on large salaries, rather than on bonuses and perks, to provide employees maximum flexibility.” Now let me ask you, what would you rather have? A bigger, consistent check, but without bonuses or a smaller check, with the occasional tip based on a manager’s discretion? You know which one you would choose…

7. Every company does the occasional team-bonding exercise, but what makes sense for Netflix employees? THE film festival of all festivals – Sundance. Again, passion for movies, passion for movies, passion for movies. If you love movies, why work anywhere else?

8. A promise to create an amazing future and how they intend to do it. (Again, all in plain english.) Nice…

Netflix, I am so impressed with your passion statement! ( I call it that because it is so far evolved from the average recruitment advertisement.)

Bravo Netflix! Bravo!