New Delhi, India – Zomato, India's leading food delivery platform, has stirred up a significant buzz with its recent job posting for the position of Chief of Staff. The unique requirement has sparked a debate among industry experts and social media users alike.

The Unusual Offer

The job posting, shared by Zomato CEO Deepinder Goyal on social media, outlined an unconventional compensation structure:

• No Salary for the First Year: The successful candidate will not receive any salary during the initial year of employment.
• Candidate Pays a Fee: The applicant is required to pay a fee of Rs 20 lakh, which will be donated to Feeding India, a Zomato-backed non-profit organization.
• Substantial Salary from Second Year Onwards: From the second year onwards, the Chief of Staff will receive a competitive salary exceeding Rs 50 lakh per year.

Zomato's Rationale

Goyal explained that this approach aims to attract individuals genuinely passionate about learning and contributing to Zomato's growth. The fee is intended to filter out applicants solely motivated by financial gain, ensuring that the selected candidate is committed to the long-term vision of the company.

Mixed Reactions

The job posting has garnered diverse reactions:

• Supporters: Some view it as a unique opportunity for rapid career growth and exposure to high-level decision-making.
• Critics: Others argue that it exploits young professionals, particularly those from underprivileged backgrounds, who may not have the financial means to pay the upfront fee.

Ethical Considerations

The unconventional nature of the job offer raises ethical questions about the fairness and transparency of the recruitment process. Critics argue that it could potentially exclude talented individuals who may not be able to afford the fee.

The Future of Recruitment

Zomato's experiment could reshape the future of recruitment practices in the tech industry. While it may attract significant attention and potentially attract top talent, it's crucial to consider the ethical implications and long-term impact on the industry.