Application Guide

How to Apply for Call for Volunteers

at The Harder Problem Action Fund

🏢 About The Harder Problem Action Fund

The Harder Problem Action Fund is a unique advocacy organization specifically focused on combating harmful AI consciousness legislation through evidence-based policy work. Unlike general tech policy groups, they concentrate exclusively on preventing premature or misguided regulation of AI consciousness. Someone might want to work here to engage in targeted advocacy on a cutting-edge issue at the intersection of technology, ethics, and public policy.

About This Role

This volunteer role involves tracking AI consciousness bills across multiple states, analyzing legislation, and creating tools to mobilize public action against harmful proposals. It's impactful because you'll directly contribute to preventing poorly conceived laws that could stifle AI development or create unnecessary regulatory burdens, helping shape evidence-based policy in a rapidly evolving field.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might start with scanning legislative databases for new AI consciousness bills across multiple states, then updating tracking spreadsheets and flagging significant developments. You might draft a brief analysis of a newly introduced bill following evidence-based guidelines, then work on improving the public action tools or website to help constituents engage with the issue. When harmful bills advance, you'd help coordinate call campaigns by preparing talking points and organizing outreach efforts.

🎯 Who The Harder Problem Action Fund Is Looking For

  • Self-motivated individual with strong research skills who can independently track legislation across multiple jurisdictions
  • Someone with basic technical ability to build/maintain simple tracking tools and websites (even if self-taught)
  • Clear communicator who can translate complex policy issues into actionable alerts and public communications
  • Person passionate about evidence-based policy who can maintain objectivity while advocating against harmful legislation

📝 Tips for Applying to The Harder Problem Action Fund

1

Demonstrate your ability to track complex information by organizing your application materials clearly and logically

2

Include any examples of independent research or self-directed projects, even if not policy-related

3

Mention specific AI consciousness bills you're aware of or recent legislative developments in this area

4

Highlight any experience with basic website tools, spreadsheets, or databases since the role involves maintaining tracking systems

5

Explain why evidence-based policy matters to you personally, not just why you're against certain legislation

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

['Your understanding of why evidence-based approaches are crucial for AI consciousness policy specifically', "Examples of how you've managed complex information or tracking systems in past roles or projects", 'Your ability to work independently in a remote volunteer capacity', "Why you're personally invested in preventing harmful AI legislation rather than just interested in tech policy generally"]

Generate Cover Letter →

🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • Review the organization's public communications to understand their specific stance on AI consciousness
  • Identify 2-3 current state-level AI consciousness bills and understand their key provisions
  • Research what 'evidence-based policy' means in the context of emerging technologies
  • Look into the broader debate around AI consciousness to understand different perspectives

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 How would you set up a system to track AI consciousness bills across 50 states efficiently?
2 What makes a bill analysis 'evidence-based' rather than opinion-based in your view?
3 How would you communicate the risks of a specific AI consciousness bill to concerned citizens without technical backgrounds?
4 What tools or platforms have you used to organize information or coordinate actions remotely?
5 How do you stay current on AI policy developments across multiple states simultaneously?
Practice Interview Questions →

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Applying with a generic interest in 'AI policy' without demonstrating specific knowledge about consciousness legislation
  • Focusing only on being 'against regulation' rather than advocating for evidence-based alternatives
  • Submitting disorganized application materials that suggest poor tracking/organization skills

📅 Application Timeline

This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to The Harder Problem Action Fund!