&gt; leave after one year<p>I&#x27;ve been trying to leave my small company for a mid-sized startup in NYC (currently in NJ). Started just before my year mark. Almost every startup wanted someone with more experience under their belt. Of the few that were willing to take on someone with one year, I was still in competition with others who had much more experience. I got the same line over and over again - &quot;strong technically, passionate, good fundamentals, but we need someone more experienced&quot;. So I waited a few months and tried again. It&#x27;s gone a lot better so far (no offers yet) but I&#x27;ve had to shift my image from that of a young up-and-comer to one who knows how to Get Stuff Done. I stopped asking about mentorship opportunities. I still really want to work at a startup but I need a new job ASAP - I don&#x27;t think I&#x27;ll be attractive to them for a few more months at least.