How to Get an Interview at Amazon: A Comprehensive Guide
Securing an interview at Amazon is a significant achievement. The company is one of the most sought-after employers in the tech industry due to its diverse business presenting unique opportunities, transparent culture, lateral and upward mobility opportunities, and strong internal network. Amazon is known for its commitment to innovation, customer obsession, and a unique company culture shaped by its focus on 16 Leadership Principles. Given the competitive nature of its hiring process, and thousands of applications received per role, securing an interview requires more than just submitting a good resume. This comprehensive guide will provide a step-by-step approach to help you navigate the application process and increase your chances of securing an interview at Amazon.
1. Understanding Amazon’s Hiring Philosophy
The Amazon hiring process is known for its complexity and thoroughness. It involves multiple stages, including initial resume screening, an online assessment, and multiple rounds of interviews. Understanding this process is crucial for effective preparation. Amazon’s recruitment process is designed to evaluate both technical skills and cultural fit. For a detailed overview of Amazon's hiring process, you can find more information here.
Amazon’s Leadership Principles
Amazon’s hiring philosophy is deeply rooted in its 16 Leadership Principles, which guide decision-making, interpersonal relationships, and individual behaviour at every level of the company. These leadership principles are not just corporate slogans but are actively used by employees on a daily basis, and are core to evaluating candidates during the hiring process. Understanding and embodying these principles is crucial if you want to stand out in the Amazon application process and will be vital for the interview process as well.
When applying for a position at Amazon, it’s important to understand as many principles as possible and show how your experience and values align with them. Some of the most famous Leadership Principles include "Customer Obsession," "Bias for Action," and "Invent and Simplify”, and demonstrating your alignment with these in the application process can help you stand out.
Customer Obsession
Amazon’s primary focus is on delivering the best possible experience for its customers. This principle is central to the company’s operations and is a key criterion in the hiring process. When crafting your application, think about experiences where you’ve put customers first, whether by improving a product, solving a customer’s problem, or finding innovative ways to meet customer needs.
Bias for Action and Innovation
Amazon values employees who are proactive and innovative, able to make decisions quickly and take calculated risks. The principle of "Bias for Action" emphasises the importance of speed in decision-making, while "Invent and Simplify" encourages employees to find innovative solutions that make processes more efficient. In your application, highlight instances where you’ve taken initiative, implemented new ideas, or streamlined processes to drive results.
2. Tailoring Your Resume for Amazon
Your resume is your first opportunity to make an impression on Amazon’s hiring team. To increase your chances of getting noticed, you must tailor your resume to the specific role you’re applying for, ensuring that it highlights your most relevant experiences and skills. Don’t worry about including every detail of your work history, instead focus on what matters for the role and demonstrates alignment with the principles.
Highlight Relevant Experience
When applying to Amazon, carefully review the job description and identify the key skills and experiences required. Your resume should clearly reflect how your background aligns with these requirements. Be specific about your contributions and the impact you had in previous roles.
Quantify Achievements
Amazon is a data-driven company, and quantifying your achievements can help demonstrate the value you’ve brought to previous roles. Avoid listing your responsibilities, and instead include metrics that showcase your impact. For example, rather than saying, "Managed a team of engineers," you could say, "Led a team of 10 engineers to deliver a new product feature that increased user engagement by 20%." Quantifying your achievements makes your resume more compelling and shows that you understand the importance of results.
Include Keywords
Amazon’s application process often involves an applicant tracking system (ATS) that scans resumes for relevant keywords. To ensure your resume passes this initial screening, incorporate industry-specific and Amazon-specific keywords found in the job description. These might include specific technologies, methodologies, or soft skills that are emphasized in the role you’re applying for. Careful, don’t go overboard, and focus on areas where it’s most naturally aligned.
Formatting Tips
A well-formatted resume is crucial for making a positive first impression. Keep your resume concise—ideally one page for early-career professionals or two pages for those with extensive experience. Use a clean, professional layout with clear section headings and bullet points to make your resume easy to read. Avoid using overly complex designs or graphics that might not be ATS-friendly. Remember, your ability to be concise and get to the point, using only the required words, is a skill you want to demonstrate. A wordy and long resume stands out for the wrong reasons.
3. Networking Strategies
Networking can play a critical role in helping you get noticed by Amazon recruiters and potentially securing a referral. By building relationships with current and former Amazon employees, you can gain valuable insights into the company’s culture and hiring process, as well as increase your chances of getting an interview.
LinkedIn Optimization
Your LinkedIn profile is often the first place recruiters will look, so it’s essential that it presents you in the best possible light. Ensure that your profile is complete, with a professional photo, a strong headline, and a detailed summary that highlights your most relevant experience and skills. Tailor the information to align with the leadership principles and the role you’re applying for, just like with your resume. Just like with your resume, include keywords that are relevant to the Amazon roles you’re interested in. Also, consider listing any relevant certifications, projects, or publications that showcase your expertise. LinkedIn Optimization is also key to ensure you get good inbound opportunities from Amazon recruiters.
Connect with Current and Former Amazon Employees
One of the most effective ways to learn about opportunities at Amazon and potentially secure a referral s to connect with current and former employees. Start by identifying Amazon employees in your network or through LinkedIn searches. When reaching out, personalize your message and explain why you’re interested in Amazon and the specific role. Requesting informational interviews can be a great way to learn more about the company’s culture and the hiring process while building meaningful connections. Meeting with people at a similar career level or in similar roles can give you the most actionable information.
Join Relevant Industry Groups
Joining industry-specific groups on LinkedIn, Facebook, or other platforms can help you stay updated on trends and connect with professionals in your field. Engage in discussions, share relevant content, and contribute your insights. This not only helps build your personal brand but also increases your chances of connecting with Amazon employees and recruiters who are active in these groups.
4. Applying Strategically
Applying strategically is crucial to increasing your chances of getting an interview at Amazon. Rather than applying to every open position, focus on roles that align closely with your experience and career goals and make each one count, improving and applying new learnings between each round.
Research Open Positions
Before applying, take the time to thoroughly research open positions at Amazon. Visit Amazon’s career portal and filter jobs by location, department, and experience level to find roles that match your skills and career goals. Read the job descriptions carefully and ensure that your experience matches the key requirements. If you find a role that seems like a good fit, tailor your resume and cover letter specifically for that position.
Use Amazon’s Job Portal
Amazon’s official job portal is the primary platform for applying to roles at the company. Create a profile and upload your resume, ensuring that all information is accurate and up-to-date. When applying, customize your resume and cover letter for each role, highlighting how your experience aligns with the specific job requirements. Amazon values thoroughness and attention to detail, so double-check your application for any errors before submitting it.
Referrals
Getting a referral from a current Amazon employee can significantly boost your chances of landing an interview. Employees at Amazon can refer candidates through an internal system, and referred candidates are often given priority during the screening process. When seeking a referral, reach out to your network and explain why you’re interested in the role and how you’re a good fit for Amazon. Be respectful of the employee’s time and make sure you’re well-prepared before asking for a referral.
Following Up
After submitting your application, consider following up with a polite email to the recruiter or hiring manager. Express your enthusiasm for the role and briefly reiterate why you’re a strong fit. While following up doesn’t guarantee a response, it can help keep your application top of mind. Be mindful not to follow up too frequently, as this can come across as pushy or impatient.
5. Building a Strong Online Presence
Your online presence can significantly influence how potential employers perceive you and becomes increasingly essential for more senior roles. Building a strong, consistent online brand can help you stand out in the competitive Amazon application process.
Personal Branding
Personal branding involves creating a consistent and professional online image that aligns with your career goals. Start by ensuring that your LinkedIn profile, personal website, and any other online profiles reflect your professional achievements and skills. Use a consistent photo, color scheme, and tone across all platforms to reinforce your brand. Share industry-related content, write blog posts, or contribute to discussions that showcase your expertise. It doesn’t have to be daily or even weekly, but you want to give the idea that you’re active. Supporting posts from current colleagues or sharing when your current employer is recruiting are great ways to start and help position you as a supportive colleague and team member.
Engaging in Industry Conversations
Participating in industry conversations online can help you build your reputation as a knowledgeable professional in your field. Engage with thought leaders, comment on relevant articles, and share your own insights on platforms like LinkedIn or Twitter. This not only helps you stay informed about industry trends but also increases your visibility to potential employers, including Amazon. And the best part is, you can do most of this over your morning coffee, on your commute, or whist waiting for a train.
Showcasing Your Work
If you work in a field where you can showcase your work online, such as software development, design, marketing, or writing, create a portfolio that highlights your best projects. Platforms like GitHub, Behance, Medium or personal blogs are great for displaying your work. Make sure your portfolio is easy to navigate and includes context about each project, such as your role, the tools you used, and the outcomes. A well-curated portfolio can be a powerful tool for demonstrating your skills and experience. Also, it doesn’t have to be long or exhaustive, even a handful of examples gives a strong flavour.
Leveraging LinkedIn Recommendations
LinkedIn recommendations from colleagues, supervisors, or clients can add credibility to your profile. Reach out to people you’ve worked closely with and ask them to write a recommendation that highlights your strengths and accomplishments, particularly those that align with Amazon’s Leadership Principles. Be specific in your request to ensure the recommendation focuses on the skills and experiences most relevant to the roles you’re applying for. You can also offer to leave a recommendation in return.
6. Crafting a Standout Cover Letter
A well-written cover letter can set you apart from other candidates by demonstrating your enthusiasm for the role and highlighting how your experience aligns with Amazon’s needs.
Tailoring to the Role
Your cover letter should be carefully tailored to the specific role you’re applying for, addressing the key requirements listed in the job description and the leadership principles. Start by researching the role and the team you’d be joining, and use this information to craft a personalised letter. Mention the role by name and explain why you’re interested in it, showing that you’ve done your homework.
Highlighting Alignment with Leadership Principles
Use your cover letter to demonstrate how your experience aligns with Amazon’s Leadership Principles. For example, if you’re applying for a role that requires innovation and problem-solving, share an example of a time when you identified a problem and implemented a creative solution. Be sure to tie your examples back to the principles, showing that you understand and embody the values Amazon prioritizes.
Demonstrating Enthusiasm and Fit
In addition to showcasing your skills and experience, your cover letter should convey your enthusiasm for the role and the company and capture your unique personality. Explain why you’re excited about the opportunity to work at Amazon and how you see yourself contributing to the team. This enthusiasm can make a strong impression on hiring managers and help you stand out from other candidates.
Avoiding Common Pitfalls
When writing your cover letter, avoid common mistakes such as using generic language, failing to proofread, or repeating information already included in your resume. Instead, focus on providing new insights and context that complement your resume. Keep your letter concise—no more than one page—and ensure it’s free of spelling and grammar errors. A polished, well-written cover letter reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.
7. Leveraging External Resources and Certifications
Strengthening your application with relevant certifications, courses, and industry recognition can help you stand out in a competitive applicant pool.
Professional Certifications
Professional certifications can demonstrate your expertise in specific areas relevant to the role you’re applying for at Amazon. For example, if you’re pursuing a role in cloud computing, earning an AWS Certification can show that you have the technical knowledge and skills required for the job. Research certifications that are highly regarded in your industry and consider pursuing those that align with your career goals.
Online Courses and Learning Platforms
Online learning platforms like Coursera, edX, Harvard Online and LinkedIn Learning offer courses on a wide range of topics, from technical skills to leadership development. Your alma mater may also have continuous learning short courses available to you either for free or a small charge, these are a great way to highlight your continuous learning. Completing relevant courses can help you fill any gaps in your knowledge and enhance your qualifications. Be sure to add any completed courses to your resume and LinkedIn profile.
Industry Recognition and Awards
If you’ve received any industry awards, been published in reputable journals, or presented at conferences, include these achievements in your application. Industry recognition can add significant weight to your resume, demonstrating that you’re a leader in your field. When listing these accomplishments, provide context about what you achieved and why it’s relevant to the role you’re applying for.
Keeping Skills Up-to-Date
The tech industry is constantly evolving, and staying current with the latest trends and technologies is essential. Regularly update your skills through continuous learning, whether by attending workshops, reading industry publications, or participating in online courses. Keeping your skills up-to-date shows potential employers that you’re committed to professional growth and prepared to tackle the challenges of a dynamic work environment.
8. Common Mistakes to Avoid in the Application Process
Even the most qualified candidates can make mistakes in the application process that hurt their chances of getting an interview. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:
Generic Applications
One of the most common mistakes applicants make is submitting generic resumes and cover letters that are not tailored to the specific role or company. This can make it difficult for hiring managers to see how your experience is relevant to the position. Always take the time to customize your application materials for each role, highlighting the skills and experiences that are most relevant.
Neglecting the Leadership Principles
As previously mentioned, Amazon’s Leadership Principles are central to its hiring process. Failing to demonstrate how your experience aligns with these principles can significantly weaken your application. Be sure to weave these principles into your resume, cover letter, and any other application materials to show that you understand and embody the values Amazon prioritizes.
Overlooking Keywords
Many companies, including Amazon, use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to screen resumes before they reach a human recruiter. If your resume doesn’t include the right keywords, it may not make it past this initial screening. Carefully review the job description and include relevant keywords and phrases in your resume. This will increase the likelihood that your application will be seen by a recruiter.
Inconsistent Online Presence
Your online presence, including your LinkedIn profile and any professional websites or portfolios, should be consistent with the information on your resume. Inconsistencies can raise red flags for recruiters and diminish your credibility. Make sure that your job titles, dates of employment, and other key details match across all platforms. Additionally, ensure that your online presence reflects the professional image you want to convey to potential employers. When was the last time you googled yourself?
Ignoring the Power of Networking
Relying solely on online applications can be a mistake, especially for competitive roles at companies like Amazon. Networking can significantly increase your chances of getting an interview. Don’t underestimate the value of reaching out to current employees, attending industry events, and leveraging your professional network to secure referrals and learn more about the company.
9. Common Reasons for Not Getting an Interview at Amazon
Understanding the common reasons candidates don’t get interviews at Amazon can help you refine your approach and increase your chances of success.
Lack of Relevant Experience
One of the primary reasons candidates don’t get interviews is a lack of relevant experience. If your experience doesn’t closely align with the job requirements, it’s unlikely that your application will stand out. Make sure your resume clearly highlights your most relevant experience and skills, and consider gaining additional experience or certifications if you’re not fully qualified for the role.
Poor Resume
A poorly formatted or poorly written resume can make it difficult for recruiters to quickly assess your qualifications. If your resume is cluttered, disorganized, wordy, or difficult to read, it may be overlooked, even if you have the right experience. Use a clean, professional layout with clear headings and concice bullet points to make your resume easy to skim.
Insufficient Quantification of Achievements
Amazon is a data-driven company, and they value candidates who can demonstrate their impact with numbers. If your resume doesn’t include quantified achievements, it may not effectively convey the value you’ve brought to previous roles. Be sure to include metrics that highlight your accomplishments, such as the percentage increase in sales you achieved or the number of projects you managed.
Failure to Network Effectively
Networking can play a crucial role in getting your application noticed. If you’re not leveraging your professional network, you may miss out on opportunities to connect with current Amazon employees or recruiters who can help you secure an interview. Make an effort to build and maintain relationships within your industry, attend relevant events, and seek out referrals whenever possible.
Not Tailoring the Application to Amazon
Generic applications are often overlooked, especially at a company like Amazon, where alignment with the company’s culture and values is critical. If you’re not tailoring your resume and cover letter to reflect Amazon’s Leadership Principles and the specific requirements of the role, your application may not make it past the initial screening. Take the time to customize each application, emphasizing your fit for the company and the position.
10. Next Steps if You Don’t Get the Interview
If you don’t get an interview, it’s important to stay positive and take proactive steps to improve your chances for future opportunities.
Reapplying
Amazon has a policy that allows candidates to reapply for the same or different roles after a certain period (usually six months). If you’re still interested in working at Amazon, take the time to address any gaps in your experience or skills before reapplying. Strengthen your resume, gain additional experience, or complete relevant certifications to enhance your qualifications.
Continuous Improvement
Even if you don’t get the interview on your first try, continuous improvement is key to eventually securing a position at Amazon. Take on new challenges at work, pursue professional development opportunities, and stay updated on industry trends. The tech industry is constantly evolving, and staying current with the latest advancements will make you a more competitive candidate.
Exploring Alternative Roles
If you’re not selected for your desired role, consider exploring other positions at Amazon that may be a better fit for your skills and experience. The company has a wide range of roles across different departments, and finding the right fit may increase your chances of success. Additionally, consider applying to similar companies in the industry to gain experience that could make you a stronger candidate for Amazon in the future.
Conclusion
Securing an interview at Amazon requires a strategic approach, a deep understanding of the company’s values, and thorough preparation. By aligning your resume with Amazon’s requirements, networking effectively, building a strong online presence, and avoiding common mistakes in the application process, you can significantly increase your chances of success. Remember, persistence is key. Even if you don’t succeed on your first attempt, continuous improvement and a proactive approach will keep you on the path to securing that coveted Amazon interview.