Just pick wisely... (Do your Homework.) (Score 1)

Research companies before you apply and make sure to ask lots of questions. Job interviews are not just about selling yourself to the company. Most companies also want (and need) to sell themselves to you. Remember, that they need you otherwise they wouldn't bother giving you the time of day... (Accept any company that says that they will hire you.)

If you land a job with a company, and then find out that it was a mistake, be professional and do the best job you can, but be alert. Build your connections until you can find a better workplace and/or start your own company.

Also, the value of (good) political sense and fitting in shouldn't be undervalued. Must useful work (including IT) involves collaboration and teamwork. Sure, people sometimes get promoted because of social rather than technical skills but this isn't always bad. From the employer's standpoint it doesn't matter how smart YOU are, it matters how smart the team works together...