Welcome to Los Angeles, city of angels, demons and everything in-between. For one of a million reasons you may find yourself here, perhaps you’re even trying to make something happen in the tech space. For those who are, I thought it might be helpful to share some of my own experiences.
Two years ago I was working some low-level web development job, even worse, I was doing it from Orange County. I could see the LA tech scene was starting to get traction again, and I just had to get in the mix. Since then I’ve worked for three well funded start-ups and arguably some of the best CEOs in the community. I’ve had a rather in-depth look at the people and culture of the Los Angeles tech scene, both in person and virtually.
So here is my advice to you, should you want to make a splash, and perhaps a little money along the way.
Transplanting
Los Angeles is a transient city, with most residents hailing from elsewhere. In fact, I’m one of the few people I know to actually be born within Los Angeles County borders. So don’t feel out of place if you’re newly relocated here, you’ll likely soon meet others from your hometown even. Just make sure you land softly here in Los Angeles. The community is welcoming but can easily be put off by a loud entrance. Francisco Dao is somehow excluded from this. You should feel the space out, and reach out gently to a few folks with similar interests.
Employment
Just like any other city, employment opportunities in Los Angeles aren’t great these days. However I can already see things improving. Companies are hiring more, and once again sexy jobs are available at some companies. If you have limited experience get a low level job at any start-up you can. Grit your teeth and get in the trenches. You’ll learn a lot and build relationships. Within a year you should either elevate to a better position there, or jump to a new opportunity. Don’t ever work for a company for more than a year in Los Angeles. There is just far too much opportunity here to be tied down.
Sleeping Around
Who doesn’t like sleeping around. You know, a little twittering under the covers. This can be especially fun in a city like Los Angeles, here you have no shortage of beautiful people, and a lot of them drink heavily! You’ll make your own mistakes (and in some cases, triumphs) here, just go forward with caution. Remember, if you sleep with someone in the tech space, there is a good chance you’ll be seeing them again, be it at an event, or across the conference room table. I’d tell you to just avoid it all together but that’s no fun. Really I’ll just recommend shagging outside the LA tech scene (read: in the entertainment industry) and avoid a world of trouble.
Networking
There used to be A LOT of networking events in Los Angeles, some might say there still are. These events are important, especially if you are new in town, but don’t get sucked in. It’s very easy to attend several events each week, this can be both draining and distracting to your work. Recently I’ve scaled back on events I attend, mostly due to workaholism, but really it wasn’t helping to advance my work. Free drinks are nice, but sometimes nights are best left to analytics and getting a jump start on tomorrow.
Social Climbing
Social climbing or famewhoring is pretty common in Los Angeles, actually I think we invented it. So how do you avoid it? First understand it’s fine to do this in moderation. Just make sure you are also contributing to the community as you climb your various ladders.
Fooling Around on the Side
Ok, now I’m talking about something really sexy. Side projects. No matter where you work, or what you do, you should always have a side project or two brewing. These should be small endeavors, plays that net you some revenue or a product you can fully bake at a later time. If your work frowns upon this don’t let that stop you. Remember, in the end your day job is based on many different factors you can’t possibly control. Having a backup plan (or two) is certainly not a bad idea.
I could go on and on for this topic, but I’ve likely already said too much. I’ll just leave you saying welcome to jungle baby, you’re gonna be just fine.
