Joining a Web3 project can be exciting - new tech, innovative ideas, maybe even a token allocation. But I’ve also seen devs jump into projects that looked promising… and then implode due to bad code, shady leadership, or unrealistic roadmaps.

Before you commit your time (and reputation), it’s worth running your own project audit - not just of the smart contracts, but of the whole operation.

Here’s how I do it.

1️⃣ Check the Codebase
Even if the repo isn’t public, a serious project should let potential dev hires see code samples or architecture diagrams.

Look for:

• Code clarity and consistency
• Test coverage (or lack thereof)
• Upgrade patterns for smart contracts
• Signs of copy-paste or unverified code from random GitHub repos

If the code is messy now, it will be your problem later.

2️⃣ Verify the Smart Contracts Are Actually Live (and Secure)
Check:

• Are contracts verified on Etherscan/Polygonscan/etc.?
• Does the deployed bytecode match the repo?
• Have they been audited? By who? Is the report public?
• Any critical issues left unresolved in the audit?

If they’re shipping without audits or testnets, expect fire drills.

3️⃣ Review the Tokenomics and Vesting
If part of your compensation is tokens:

• What’s the vesting schedule?
• Is there a lock-up?
• How much supply does the team hold?
• Is the token already liquid? If yes, what’s the volume and volatility?

A generous token grant is worthless if it unlocks after the project dies.

4️⃣ Look at the Leadership and Backers
Research:

• Do founders have a track record in tech or crypto?
• Any credible investors or partners?
• Are they visible and active in the community, or anonymous and unreachable?

Good tech won’t save bad leadership.

5️⃣ Check the Community Pulse
Join their Discord, Telegram, or X feed:

• Are questions answered quickly and honestly?
• Is engagement organic or full of bot spam?
• Is the roadmap public, and do they actually hit milestones?

A healthy community is a sign of healthy operations.

6️⃣ Test the Product Like a User
Before you write a single line of code:

• Use the DApp on testnet/mainnet
• Try the onboarding process
• Look for UX friction, errors, or missing features

If the current UX is painful, factor in whether you’ll get time to fix it or be asked to “just ship features.”

Final Thought
A Web3 job or partnership can be an amazing opportunity, but in this space, due diligence isn’t optional.

Audit the project the same way you’d audit a smart contract: methodically, with an eye for risk. The time you spend upfront could save you months of frustration later.

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