This describes how people of advanced age (in the crypto world, this means anyone over 20), can join Decentralized Autonomous Organizations (DAOs). It is based on my experience in advisory and leadership at a number of DAOs over the last 12 months (Bankless DAO, Dorg, Swan DAO and Olympus).
What is a DAO? A DAO is an internet community with a member-managed bank account. DAOs create currencies (MakerDAO), collect art (PleasrDAO) and save the planet (KlimaDAO).
Why are DAOs anonymous? Most DAO members do not use their real names. This helps ensure that people are valued for their contributions, not just their pedigrees. Make up a cool name (mine is TwoEggs) and you are halfway to DAO stardom!
How do DAO members communicate? Almost all DAOs communicate using the Discord app, which has features similar to Slack and Zoom. Joining the DAO requires getting an invitation to their Discord server (here is an invite to KlimaDAO).
How do I verify myself? DAOs often require a verification process before you can interact with the community. For example, you may need to agree to a set of rules or associate a crypto wallet with your identity using a tool like collab.land.
How are DAOs organized? Once you are verified, you can see the channel topics for that DAO. The left column on Discord shows you a set of channels, usually organized by team. The right column on Discord shows a list of roles - often humorous, like “Head Honchos.”
What help do DAOs need? All DAOs are desperate for UX and smart contract devs, but also for product management, sales, marketing, accounting, HR, writing and social media skills.
How do I introduce myself? Most DAOs have a “start-here” channel with instructions on how to get involved as well as an “introduce-yourself” channel to make yourself known. In your intro, focus on the skills and interests that you think are most important to that DAO.
How do I pick a team? DAOs operate on a “learn by doing” model. Explore the Discord channels until you discover a team you can help. Find out when they have team meetings and sit in. Get to know one or more team leaders and ask what work they need done.
How do I contribute? Find a simple task that a team leader wants done and do it. Good teams are also good at coming up with initial tasks for newcomers. Make sure your task has sponsorship and visibility - random acts of work don’t help!
How do I level up? Do good work for one leader on one team to build a reputation. Get introduced to other teams by people who can vouch for you.
What is a reasonable DAO onboarding timeline? If you have relevant technical or business experience, you should be fully on-boarded to a DAO within 4-6 weeks. This includes: 1-2 weeks exploring DAO channels and joining team meetings; 1-2 weeks to connect with a team leader and deliver an initial task; 2-3 weeks on additional tasks and networking to other teams.
How are DAOs governed? DAOs have very flexible operating models - generally anyone can make a proposal to do anything and if they get the votes that becomes law. Generally DAO members get one vote for each DAO token they hold. This allows for rapid iteration and experimentation but can be a poor substitute for an actual strategy.
What is unusual about working with DAOs? Anonymity is a good way to level the field but is lonely and can allow shockingly bad individual behavior without accountability. Lofty statements about inclusivity can be undermined by back-channel decision processes. Business experience and skill level is often in short supply, with the result that many tasks that are easy for companies are hard for DAOs, including on-boarding, training, compensation, and strategy.
What is cool about working with DAOs? Most people in DAOs are trying to get experience and have fun. The atmosphere is relaxed and the pace is exciting. Many members are idealistic and committed to making the world a better place.