Tired of the corporate world? Looking to break out of the traditional 9-5 workday and partner up with a progressive organization that sees things differently than the average Fortune 500 company? Well, maybe a startup is right for you. We've gathered some tips and tricks for finding NYC startup jobs that match up with your skill set and interests.
Join Local Entrepreneurship Groups
One of the best ways to stay abreast of NYC startup opportunities is to join an entrepreneurship group. In fact, join as many as you possibly can. Many of these groups only meet once a month. Other groups are solely internet-based. You should make time for these. They require a low level of commitment, yet render fantastic networking opportunities. Here are a few local and national ones to consider:
NYESN. The New York Entrepreneurs & Startup Network is a relatively new group, but is known for excellent networking and fun events. They typically meet every other Wednesday night and a few hundred people show up to each event.
Entrepreneurs’ Organization. This group has thousands of members and offers wonderful mentorship and learning programs, in addition to access to frequently added startup opportunities.
NYCBNG. The New York City Business Networking Group is a great group to join if you’re looking to develop new opportunities in the city. Everyone from entrepreneurs to C-level executives are a part of the group, so you’ll certainly get a taste of everything.
There are literally hundreds of different local and national groups you could join. Find a handful that don’t require a massive time commitment and join. Hitting a couple of networking events each month may help you develop some healthy relationships with NYC startups.
Study Where Investors are Putting Their Money
What are the two things every successful startup needs in the beginning stages? 1) a good idea that solves a need, and 2) money. A lot of startups have the first part of the equation, but can’t seem to get the capital. As someone who’s looking to find a job with a promising startup, you need to follow the money.
If a startup has recently received a large investment, you don’t have to wait until they post job openings. They’re almost certainly hiring. More money means more jobs, which means more growth. Keep an eye on Twitter and various technology blogs to stay on top of which startups are being funded. This insider information can help you land a job before anyone else even knows there’s one available.
Network With Friends and Family Members
While you may want to keep your job search quiet – especially if you’re still employed elsewhere – it’s important that you let your close friends and family members know that you’re on the hunt for a new job with a fresh startup. You know what they say: “It’s not what you know, but who you know.” The more people who know you’re in the market for a job, the better your chances are of finding one.
Befriend Recruiters and Industry Experts
As you network with various people, be on the lookout for job recruiters, members of the media, and other industry experts. These people often have insider information when it comes to what startups are doing and how quickly they’re growing. If you can build relationships with these sources, they may let you in on information that’s not made known to the public. As always, the best way to develop these relationships is to offer something in return; be thinking about what you bring to the table.
Peruse the Built in NYC Job Board
It’s continually refreshed with up-to-date listings and different opportunities. Some of the postings will be for more established startups, while others will be brand new companies looking for some experienced help.
Simply Open Your Eyes and Ears
While your first thought may be to target super successful startups you read about online, the fact is these startups probably have lines out their doors that are filled with people willing to do anything and everything just to land a temporary, unpaid opportunity. Don’t head straight to the Google homepage every time you want to find a startup job. Instead, take a much more local and organic approach.
You have to be quick and in-the-know to land an opportunity with one of the sexy startups you see on Shark Tank or read about in Entrepreneur Magazine. If you really want to help a startup grow and experience success, it’s necessary to get in on the ground level. Start local and don’t be afraid to go out on a limb.
