Have you started interviewing for IT jobs in a competitive job market?  Then you may want to read up on some tips for landing that coveted technical job.  Chances are, if you are working in the field of Internet or computer technology, you may be interested in find a great startup opportunity. While these positions carry more risk than traditional IT companies, they can also put your career on the fast track.  Imagine where you would be now if you were among that first group of people working at Facebook, or if you were on the team that first launched the iPod at Apple.  Gaining influence in the IT community often begins by playing a key role in a startup company.

Startup companies also require a slightly different approach to your interview questions.  Follow these tips for interviewing and you might just land that technical job you’ve been searching for.

•  Outline your purpose and desired outcome ahead of time.  Obviously your first priority is to get a job offer, but you will need to be confident in the company first and gather as much information as possible at the first meeting.

• Online research is key, so spend as much time as possible learning about the individuals behind the startup, why they decided to start the company and who their investors are.

• Find out how many partners are on their board and who they are.  Are you already connected to any of them on LinkedIn?

• Remember to search out the principals of the company too and find out their backgrounds. The more common ground you have with this company and its top management, the more seriously you will be taken as a candidate.

• Assess your own skills.  Take an honest look at the company’s direction and immediate goals.  How well can you contribute at this point in time?  Would you need to learn on the job or are you ready to roll up your sleeves and get started?  Be ready to demonstrate your abilities and back them up with real world examples.

• Immerse yourself in their product or service whenever possible and be ready to talk about it in specific terms.

• Don’t be afraid to find things that could be improved about it, as well as an intelligent solution.  Remember, they are looking for someone who is flexible, resourceful and an expert in the industry.

Startups need to demonstrate that the people they hire are the best in the business because they usually answer to venture capitalists.  Follow these tips for landing a technical job at a startup company and you could be on your way to a successful IT career.