Making the Jump: Moving from Web2 to Web3

At NIMA, we're a small but diverse team - from our skilled backend and frontend developers to our smart contract experts and marketers. While we're united by our enthusiasm for startups and blockchain technology, many of us actually started our careers in traditional tech. Not all of us were Web3-native when we joined NIMA; it was a journey of learning, growth, and adaptation.

To highlight this transition, we asked some of our team members who moved from Web2 to Web3 to share how they adapted. Their stories prove that while the shift comes with challenges, it's possible with the right mindset, supportive colleagues, and good work ethic.

Before sharing our team's stories, let's break down the basics:

What are the key differences between Web2 and Web3?

Traditional tech platforms (often called Web2) are typically run by large companies that control how data moves and how people interact. In contrast, blockchain-based platforms (Web3) spread that control among users, using smart contracts – think automated agreements – to handle transactions directly between people.

Web2 vs Web3 in Marketing

Web2 marketing relies heavily on targeted ads, SEO, and email campaigns. In the blockchain world, it's more about building genuine connections through platforms like Twitter, Telegram, and Discord, where users actively shape how projects develop.

Our Team's Stories

We asked our team members Nikola (frontend developer), Milica and Natalija (growth marketers) about their experience transitioning to Web3. Here’s what they had to say:

What does working in Web3 feel like? What are the biggest challenges?

Milica:

“Transitioning from a Web2 to a Web3 environment has been both exciting and challenging. Initially, I had to get my head around the whole idea of decentralization and how it flips traditional marketing. Instead of pushing ads, Web3 marketing is all about community engagement and really connecting with the people who use our platforms.”

Nikola:

“As a frontend engineer transitioning from Web2 to Web3, I've had a very interesting experience. I primarily work and develop for the web, so many technologies, patterns, and resources were directly applicable to Web3 as well. One of the most challenging aspects was understanding how the Web3 space works: what a smart contract is, how blockchains operate, and how RPC functions work, so I could have a better understanding of how certain features should be implemented”

Natalija:

“Coming from a Web2 background in Marketing and PR, I'm really proud of how I've adapted to working in Web3. At first, it was overwhelming as Web3 operates differently, and traditional marketing strategies don't always apply. However, with support from my colleagues, I quickly adapted.”

The ease of working with amazing colleagues and an amazing view!

What new tools did you start using in Web3?

Milica:

“It's been a huge shift in how I think about marketing - everything is more interactive, more direct, and definitely more personal. It keeps me on my toes, but I love the challenge and the new perspectives it brings.”

Nikola:

“In terms of technologies, we're still using the same frameworks and libraries as in Web2 (React, Next.js, Tailwind), but there are also tools specifically built for Web3. For example, the "Viem" and "Wagmi" libraries help us build features by interacting with the blockchain directly from the frontend.”

Natalija:

“It was very interesting to compare the practice of web2 and web3 marketing. For instance, In Web2, we focus on 'target audiences,' while in Web3, we build 'communities' - engaged users who actively shape the project's direction. Web2 influencers become KOLs (Key Opinion Leaders) in Web3, and the platforms change too: instead of Instagram and LinkedIn for example, we're on Twitter, Discord, and Telegram. Unlike Web2 marketing, where content is broadcast to audiences, Web3 marketing runs on constant, real-time two-way engagement.”

DeFi is always around us

The blockchain space moves fast. What methods did you use to understand the technology and stay up to date with the latest trends?

Milica:

“I’ve dived deep into learning about Web3 specifics, which are all about giving power back to the community. It was a bit of a learning curve, but super exciting to see how passionate people are in these spaces. I’ve attended tons of AMAs, and took a course focused on Web3 marketing, but the most helpful was working with an experienced CMO who secured a safe space to learn and grow.”

Nikola:

“In terms of understanding the web3 space, the best introduction and onboarding came from my colleagues. Through casual conversations at the office, I learned more than I ever could from articles or resources. Additionally, dealing with daily tasks at work allowed me to dive deeper into understanding how certain things work, and I was able to immediately apply and test my new knowledge. Overall, it's been a fun and challenging experience. The whole experience has really expanded my knowledge as a developer.”

Natalija:

“Understanding the technology behind Web3 (blockchain mechanics, smart contracts, decentralization) was initially challenging for me. While it’s not essential for marketing, having that knowledge makes communication and strategy far more effective. Fortunately, there are tons of resources, from following relevant profiles on social media to online courses and books, that break Web3 down in an easily digestible way. Being active in the space daily is crucial for keeping up with all the changes and trends.”

Interested in exploring Web3 and becoming part of NIMA?

If these stories spark your interest, here's the good news: while some roles at NIMA need specific blockchain expertise, being a Web3 expert isn’t always a must. What matters most is your dedication, way of thinking, and willingness to learn. Don’t let a lack of experience hold you back, if you're looking to make your first step into this space, check out our open positions.

Join us at NIMA!

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