The "do this because I did and it's great and I work at a super cool startup now!!" is rather nauseating- how did this reach the front page?
If you're going to post your personal blog, here are some examples of decent posts:
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=5544010 https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=5539231
What do they have that your post doesn't? Depth. They bring a topic up and have insightful perspectives on that topic. If your goal is to write compelling or informative articles about getting a job at a start up then you could speak with founders/engineers about what they're looking for in a new hire, etc.
I'm sorry if you take it personally, I'm just giving you honest feedback.
Yes, depth of insight and research Mark out the journalists article from the blog post. But longform, as the editor of the New Yorker will tell you is effort and cost
Tldr - it's good if unfair advice. Take it
Your post is a good reminder of what the basics are and their importance. Every day there are thousands of people trying to figure out how to take their next step. If even one of them is helped or encouraged by your post then mission accomplished.
Personally I'm familiar with this topic and still found your post entertaining and interesting.