Five Essential Tips for New Duolingo Hires from CEO Luis von Ahn

Duolingo CEO Luis von Ahn Shares Five Essential Tips for New Hires

Pittsburgh, PA — As Duolingo welcomes a new cohort of graduates this September, CEO Luis von Ahn is stepping up to guide them on their journey to success within the company. In a recent LinkedIn post, von Ahn shared five invaluable tips aimed at helping new employees thrive in the fast-paced world of language learning.

Having led Duolingo for over 14 years, von Ahn has cultivated a unique company culture that prioritizes collaboration, innovation, and integrity. With a current workforce of over 850 employees and a valuation of approximately $15 billion, the stakes are high for newcomers eager to make their mark.

Key Tips for Success

1. Avoid Toxic Behavior
   Von Ahn emphasizes the importance of maintaining a positive work environment. He cautions against “massive egos” and deceitful practices, stating, “Don’t be a jerk.” Duolingo is committed to swiftly identifying and rejecting toxic behavior, ensuring a supportive atmosphere for all employees.

2. Be Proactive
   Drawing from the company’s early days, von Ahn recounts a story of two engineers faced with the absence of a company blog. One complained, while the other took initiative and created the blog without prompting. The latter’s proactive approach led to greater success at Duolingo, illustrating the value of taking action rather than waiting for permission.

3. Prioritize the Company’s Mission
   New hires are encouraged to put Duolingo’s mission—providing free language education to all—above personal interests. Von Ahn clarifies that this doesn’t mean sacrificing personal well-being, but rather focusing on what benefits the company and its goals.

4. Familiarize Yourself with the Product
   Understanding the Duolingo app is crucial for new hires. Von Ahn insists that using the app is the best way to grasp its significance and functionality. He even reports bugs himself to enhance the user experience, demonstrating a hands-on approach to product knowledge.

5. Embrace Hard Work
   Success, according to von Ahn, is a blend of luck and hard work—65% luck and 35% effort over two decades. He reassures new hires that they don’t need to be the smartest in the room; persistence and dedication will lead to unexpected achievements.

As Duolingo continues to innovate and expand, von Ahn’s insights serve as a roadmap for new employees eager to contribute to the company’s mission. With these five tips, they are well-equipped to navigate their new roles and make a meaningful impact in the world of language education.