I've been grinding at a startup for over a year now, building and scaling projects from the ground up. I feel like I know a lot and have developed skills that rival those of my friends at big corporations. However, I'm struggling with my professional network since I don't have the FAANG label to rely on. Job boards seem tailored for conventional career paths, which doesn't suit my experience. I'm looking for advice on how to connect with seasoned developers who are working on exciting projects, with the hope of future job opportunities. Any tips on how and where to network effectively?
3 Answers
Honestly, the best way to gain experience is to just dive into applying for jobs and going through the interview process. There’s no big shortcut; you'll gradually find the right opportunities. If you're interested in startups, consider networking events specific to that scene, but be cautious—often the pay is less than what you’d hope for in those roles.
Check out conferences in your area! They can be a great way to meet experienced developers and make connections that could lead to job opportunities. Just keep in mind the cost and availability, since not every place hosts these events regularly.
If you're willing to relocate, look into moving to tech hubs where these companies are located. Places like Silicon Valley in the US or Bangalore in India have a vibrant tech community and lots of networking chances. There are similar cities everywhere, so doing some research could really pay off.

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