Breaking into the U.S. job market—especially in the tech sector—can feel overwhelming for many early-career professionals. Applicants often submit countless résumés, wait for replies that never come, and rarely receive meaningful feedback. To solve this problem, Tangent has introduced a new way to access high-quality job opportunities: one that removes the typical barriers between candidates and hiring teams.
One of the most exciting openings available through this platform is an Entry-Level Sales Role (Business Development Representative – BDR) at a VC-backed startup, offering a competitive $65,000–$85,000 base salary, plus commission and the chance to grow quickly into a full tech-sales career.
This guide explores everything you need to know about the job, the Tangent hiring model, required skills, and why this opportunity is ideal for driven professionals looking to start their tech career in the United States.
What Is Tangent? A New Way to Get Hired in Tech
Tangent is a career platform designed to help job seekers avoid traditional recruitment bottlenecks. Instead of sending applications into a system where they may never be seen, Tangent connects candidates directly with current employees inside the company they want to join.
These mentors are not recruiters—they are future colleagues who are committed to:
- Reviewing your CV
- Providing career coaching
- Helping you refine your interview approach
- Referring you internally to the hiring team
Internal referrals significantly increase your chances of landing the job. In fact, candidates who are referred are nine times more likely to be hired than those who apply through online job boards.
How Tangent Works
Tangent’s process is intentionally simple and time-efficient:
1. Easy Apply
You can apply quickly without rewriting your entire résumé or filling in repetitive forms.
2. Short Video Introduction
You answer just one question in a brief, one-minute video. This step helps mentors get a sense of your personality and communication style.
3. Connect with Mentors
Your matched mentors guide you through the hiring process, offering personalized insights and an internal referral to their company.
This structure ensures that applicants do not feel alone in the job search and receive professional support from people who understand the company’s culture and expectations.
About the Job: Entry-Level Business Development Representative (BDR)
The open position is for a Business Development Representative (BDR) at a fast-growing, venture-capital-backed tech company. For many professionals, especially those new to the industry, a BDR role is one of the best entry points into tech.
What Does a BDR Do?
The core responsibilities of a Business Development Representative include:
- Identifying potential clients
- Reaching out to leads through phone, email, and social media
- Qualifying prospects and booking meetings for the sales team
- Maintaining accurate records of outreach and pipeline activities
- Collaborating with other team members to improve messaging and outreach strategy
Because the role focuses on outreach and lead generation, BDRs develop excellent communication, marketing, and problem-solving skills—skills that open the door to rapid career growth.
Why This Role Is a Strong Career Starter
Becoming a BDR is widely considered one of the fastest ways to advance in the tech industry.
1. Fast Career Progression
Most BDRs stay in the role for 9–18 months before being promoted to:
- Account Executive (full-cycle sales)
- Customer Success
- Marketing
- Partnerships
- Operations
- Revenue strategy
This means you can begin earning higher commissions, managing your own accounts, and making strategic decisions in a short amount of time.
2. High Earning Potential
With a base salary of $65,000–$85,000 and the potential for additional commission, BDRs enjoy competitive earnings even at the entry level.
3. Access to Mentorship and Guidance
Through Tangent, applicants gain access to employees who coach them through the hiring and interview processes—something rarely offered through traditional job applications.
4. Work in a High-Growth Tech Environment
As part of a VC-backed startup, new hires benefit from:
- Hands-on experience
- A collaborative team
- Opportunities to influence company growth
- Exposure to senior leadership
This makes the role ideal for people who want to enter the tech world, grow quickly, and build a long-term career path.
Who Can Apply?
This position is designed for early-career candidates and does not require prior sales experience.
However, you must:
- Be able to work legally in the United States without sponsorship
- Be based in, or able to work hybrid/in-office in New York City
- Be enthusiastic about using Tangent’s mentorship process
- Be motivated to start a career in tech sales
Companies hiring through Tangent typically look for individuals who are:
- Proactive: You take initiative and enjoy solving problems
- Strong communicators: Whether through writing or speaking
- Adaptable: You’re comfortable working in a fast-paced environment
- Relationship builders: You enjoy connecting with people
- Driven: You want to achieve real outcomes and grow professionally
If you have a positive attitude, willingness to learn, and a strong work ethic, you’re already an excellent candidate.
Work Environment and Job Type
- Location: New York City (in-office or hybrid)
- Job Type: Full-time
- Industry: Tech / SaaS / VC-backed startup environment
- Training: Provided by the company and supported by Tangent mentors
This environment is ideal for professionals who want to grow quickly and contribute to a dynamic, innovative workplace.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Do I need sales experience to apply?
No. This is an entry-level role, and companies hiring through Tangent accept applicants with no sales experience.
2. Is the job remote?
No. You must be able to work in-office or hybrid in New York City.
3. Do I need a work visa?
Yes. You must be legally allowed to work in the U.S. without sponsorship.
4. How does Tangent improve my chances?
Tangent connects you directly with mentors who provide coaching and refer you internally, significantly increasing your chance of being hired.
5. Will I receive training?
Yes. You’ll receive training from both Tangent mentors and the hiring company.
6. How long is the typical BDR career path?
Most BDRs work 9–18 months in the role before advancing into higher-level sales or customer-facing positions.
7. What is the salary range?
The base salary is $65,000–$85,000, with additional commission potential.