The most critical thing to remember when it comes to applying for jobs is "either you have it or you don't". You can embellish your resume, contact 100 recruiters, and have the most well developed portfolio on the planet, but when it comes time to apply your knowledge, you have to deliver. I have seen plenty of IT professionals who look fantastic on paper, but cannot think creatively or deliver under pressure. Take time to understand the industry, constantly strive to learn new technologies, and be infinitely curious. I am nowhere near the skill level of anyone on HN, but people much wiser than I am have instilled a sense of curiosity in me, and that's the most valuable character trait anyone in this industry can have.