DeepSeek founder, who shook US tech giants' supremacy, prefers humanities graduates over techies

DeepSeek, a leading AI company, is taking an unconventional approach to hiring under the leadership of CEO Liang Wenfeng. Unlike many tech companies that prioritize candidates with extensive technical expertise, Liang focuses on creativity, intellectual curiosity, and diverse perspectives. His strategy places an emphasis on hiring Generation Z, avid readers, and humanities graduates, believing that imaginative thinking is more valuable than years of experience.

During a 2023 interview with Chinese media outlet 36Kr, Liang explained his approach. “When aiming for rapid results, it makes sense to hire those who already possess the necessary expertise,” he said. “However, for long-term ambitions, experience holds less significance. Core competencies, an inventive mindset, and an unwavering passion for the work are attributes I value above all else.”

His perspective challenges the industry norm, where companies like OpenAI and Meta favor candidates with strong technical backgrounds. Liang, however, sees open-mindedness and a willingness to explore unconventional solutions as more critical for addressing complex AI challenges.

Innovation thrives on fresh ideas, not experience

A key part of Liang’s hiring strategy is recruiting individuals from non-traditional backgrounds. While AI firms typically seek candidates with STEM degrees, DeepSeek actively hires those with a background in the humanities. Liang argues that critical thinkers with a deep understanding of human behavior and culture contribute valuable insights to AI development.

“Bringing in individuals with academic grounding in the humanities infuses the team with diverse perspectives that enrich the creative process,” he said. “Each employee carries a unique set