When we think about the global tech industry, we often imagine innovation, opportunity, and prosperity. But for many talented engineers from Nigeria, this journey is fraught with obstacles, sacrifices, and an uphill battle for recognition. As someone who has mentored numerous Nigerian engineers, from DevOps professionals and Software Developers to Security Engineers, I’ve witnessed their …
After interviewing thousands of engineers over my 20+ year career in IT, I’ve noticed that 80-90% of candidates fall short when answering this common question: “What do you dislike about your job?“ Initially, most engineers handle the question nicely—until they complain. They’ll vent about previous managers, coworkers, lack of processes, or how their ideas were …
Finding a job is a task that almost everyone faces at some point in their life. And while there’s plenty of advice out there, the truth is that most job seekers focus heavily on things like creating a great CV, writing cover letters, and applying for jobs. While these steps are essential, they’re only part …
Walking for many people who feel overwhelmed by the idea of needing to run marathons or spend hours at the gym, it’s a better option. It’s an easy yet effective journey to improved fitness, for example, could begin with something as simple as a 10 to 15-minute walk each day? Yes, it’s true! Walking is …
As Halloween approaches, we often catch ourselves in the spirit of creativity, transformation, and fun. We pick out costumes, decorate our homes, and dive into the festivities. But what if Halloween, with all its traditions and excitement, could be more than just a holiday? What if it offered you a new way to look at …
Motivation is one of life’s most elusive resources. At times, it seems to come naturally, filling us with energy and drive, while at other times, it vanishes, leaving us feeling stuck and uninspired. Maintaining motivation has become more challenging as we navigate an increasingly complex and fast-paced world. Job market fluctuations, the rise of artificial …
Finding a job can be a struggle, and that’s why I always suggest keeping your CV updated every quarter—or at least reading it so you can memorise and know it by heart. But timing your job search can make a significant difference in your chances of landing that coveted position. This post will delve into …
LinkedIn, are the tips worth your time, or are they just another way to waste money? Many of us have followed LinkedIn’s advice only to struggle with low engagement and minimal followers. But here’s the truth: LinkedIn’s recommendations work, but only if you know how to adapt them for your audience. With the right approach, …
Devin AI is certainly showing us what the future will look like in IT. As we embrace new technologies, the advent of artificial intelligence (AI) systems like Devin AI is set to redefine how we approach software development. The cumbersome processes of planning, testing, and executing projects will no longer bog us down. Instead, we …
Becoming a DevSecOps professional seems daunting, but if you’re willing to put in the effort, stay disciplined, and stay motivated, you can get there. Whether starting from scratch or transitioning from a role like IT security or system engineer, the path to DevSecOps is achievable. What matters most is understanding the foundations of security and …
Have you ever been running on empty, wondering how long you can keep going? Burnout creeps in when stress goes unchecked, leaving us mentally, emotionally, and physically exhausted. It can happen to anyone at any time. Burnout hits when we least expect it, whether it’s due to work pressures, life circumstances, or simply bad luck. …
Career progression is a must-have for every engineering team that thrives on structure and direction. Yet, too often, the path to career advancement seems shrouded in mystery or left to chance. For engineers to excel and stay motivated, they need more than a vague promise of future opportunities—they need a clear, structured career progression plan. …
Accountability is more than just a buzzword—it’s the backbone of a thriving organization. When everyone embraces accountability from the top down, it drives performance, fosters trust, and encourages a productive work environment. But how do you build a lasting culture of accountability? It’s not a one-off exercise but a continuous process that requires commitment, clarity, …
Google can be your perfect toolkit to find your ideal job. There are job boards, networking platforms, and recruitment agencies. But what if I told you you could find a job using just one tool you already know well: Google? Yes, you can use Google, a search engine most of us use daily, to unlock …
So, you’re thinking about success. What does it mean to really succeed in life? It’s a question that we all grapple with at some point, whether we’re just starting out on our career paths or looking back on years of effort and wondering if it was worth it. The conventional markers of success often include …
Laziness, I’m Lazy? We’ve all been there: when your to-do list morphs into a never-ending saga of tasks that somehow get longer the more you ignore them. Enter the dreaded “L” word—laziness. It’s as if, by simply uttering it, we’re diagnosing a condition as severe as the common cold or as existential as a mid-life …
Online courses have quickly become crucial to modern education. Recent global events changed how we think about schooling. The convenience of attending classes from anywhere makes it easy to see why more students choose virtual classrooms. It also helps in balancing multiple responsibilities. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, as of fall 2020, …
Self-improvement is a journey that never really ends. It’s about constantly refining yourself, challenging your habits, and striving to become the best version of yourself. The idea of self-improvement can often feel overwhelming, with an endless list of things to change or enhance. But what if you approached it step by step, with simple, practical …
Implementing DevOps in your organization is often perceived as a technical endeavour. You think it’s all about integrating new tools, automating workflows, and speeding up delivery cycles. But here’s the truth: while the technology is crucial, the real heart of DevOps lies in the culture. That’s right—DevOps is as much about people and how they …
Urgency is a symptom. You know the drill: you’re happily plugging away at your project when suddenly—bam! A fresh, shiny “urgent” task drops into your lap, and just like that, you shatter your focus. This scenario is as common as Monday mornings and as frustrating as a screen full of “update now” pop-ups. It’s not …
Teal can make job searching less overwhelming. Finding a job can feel like navigating a maze. With so many paths to take, getting lost, frustrated, or even overwhelmed is easy. That’s where Teal comes in—a robust platform that has not only simplified my job search but has also played a significant role in helping me …
Work-related skills and attitudes can set you apart when excelling in the workplace. Whether you’re just starting a job or have years of experience, focusing on continuous professional development is essential. Building key traits enhances your skills for career growth and strengthens your relationships with coworkers and supervisors. Let’s explore the core qualities to help …
Jerks at work, are everywhere. Almost like a plague. We’ve all been there—sitting at our desks, trying to get through the day. Suddenly, a colleague says something snide. They belittle your contribution or give you a sarcastic eye-roll with the same passive-aggressive vocabulary and condescending behaviour. That’s right you have detected a Jerk at work. …
Agile has become the go-to methodology, aka excuse, for managing projects and driving productivity. It’s touted as a game-changer in how teams work together, promising flexibility, responsiveness, and improved collaboration. But despite its widespread adoption, there’s a growing sentiment that Agile, at its core, may not be as effective for fostering true human collaboration. It …
Virtual assistant is a role you should hire to help you in attaining your goals. I’ll admit it—I never thought I needed a virtual assistant. Like many business owners, I believed that delegating important tasks to someone outside my office would only complicate things. After all, who does these tasks better than me or my …
Focus today is no longer a lifestyle is an add-on. When I was growing up, distractions were few and far between. We had the radio and television. Even then, we occasionally experienced it. We watched cartoons once a week or a special broadcast now and again. Today, the reality is vastly different. Distractions are no …
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Networking often gets pushed to the bottom of our to-do lists, and it’s easy to see why. The fear of the unknown and the dread of rejection can be daunting obstacles. Think about the last time you actively sought out a new friend or attended an event to meet new people. Many opportunities occur passively—through …
Productivity is definitely in most people’s minds at the moment. Have you ever wondered why productivity tips from gurus often feel more like a guilty conscience whispering in your ear than a path to genuine efficiency? You’re not alone. There’s a booming industry built around self-proclaimed productivity experts who are happy to tell you how …
“Manifest a Job” appeared in my recent search to help a mentee land a job, I stumbled upon an article titled “How to Manifest a Job1.” At first, I was taken aback. Manifest a job? The term manifesting often brings up images of wishful thinking or some kind of magical force. But as I kept …
Mind mapping is a dynamic and powerful tool that visually represents thoughts, ideas, and concepts. It helps organise information. This mimics the natural workings of the brain. As a result, it is easier to understand and recall. At its core, a mind map begins with a central theme in the middle of a page. This …
Productivity is one of those buzzwords we’ve all heard too often, and it seems to follow us everywhere—from the office to our homes and even in how we approach our personal goals. At its core, the term productivity is simple: it’s about getting things done. But when you dig a little deeper, it becomes clear …
Planning for a job promotion is both an art and a science. It’s about doing your current job well and going above and beyond without stepping on anyone’s toes. Getting promoted quickly requires blending your ambitions with business needs. This approach serves both your goals and the company’s future. It would help if you had …
Saying no is one of the simplest yet most powerful things we can do. Yet, for many, it’s also one of the scariest. From an early age, we’re conditioned to follow the rules, obey authority, and, in many cases, prioritize pleasing others over our own needs. Whether at work, in relationships, or even in our …
Bullying remains a pervasive issue across all levels of society, affecting individuals in schools, workplaces, and even homes. I have personally experienced bullying. Unfortunately, the company will not help you. If you believe HR will assist you, you should reconsider; they will protect the company. You must have hard evidence to substantiate your claims. Only …
A team charter is a dynamic blueprint that acts as the North Star. Have you ever found yourself on a team that felt like a ship lost at sea? Everyone’s on board, but there’s no clear direction, and chaos reigns. You’re left wondering: “What are we doing? Where are we heading?“ If this sounds familiar, …
AIOSEO, is a tool that will be the game-changer in your digital SEO strategy. You are taking huge risks if you rely only on platforms like LinkedIn and Facebook for your online professional presence. At any time, your followers can simply go. With a website, you can control what is yours. Yes, it takes time, …
Don’t List can be a powerful affirmation. From the moment we wake up to the second we go to sleep, there are always things to do, decisions to make, and requests to respond to. We often create to-do lists to manage these responsibilities and ensure we stay on track. But what about the things we …
Chaos engineering is the practice of experimenting on a system to build confidence in its ability to withstand turbulent conditions in production. At first glance, this sounds counterintuitive. “Why would you break something that’s working perfectly fine?” you might ask. It’s a question I’ve encountered many times, even from experienced engineers and managers. The notion …
SLAs, SLOs, and SLIs have never been more critical. But wait—don’t let the jargon intimidate you! By the end of this post, we’ll unravel these terms and explore why they matter, not just to tech teams, but to everyone relying on these services. The Basics: What Are SLAs, SLOs, and SLIs? Let’s start with the …
Core values are fundamental beliefs that guide our actions and decisions, shaping who we are and how we relate to the world around us. Yet, in many examples, the sheer number of personal values—sometimes exceeding 200—can feel overwhelming.1 What if we shifted our focus to a more straightforward approach? What if, instead of hunting for …
A business plan can give you the edge. We’ve all been there—preparing relentlessly for job interviews, pouring over technical materials, practising mock interviews for hours, and fine-tuning our resumes, only to be disappointed by rejection. You make it through one round only to fail another. Or worse, you don’t even get called for an interview. …
CV avalanche: Does it pay to send 500 CVs per week? We’ve all heard the advice: job hunting is a numbers game. It’s not uncommon to hear job seekers sending out hundreds of CVs, hoping that something will stick. But does this approach pay off? Does sending 500 CVs lead to success or just a …
Time management is no one-size-fits-all solution to enhance productivity instantly. The truth is, it’s not about finding quick tips or shortcuts. It’s about discovering what works for you, what fits into your lifestyle, and how you can adapt and refine those practices over time. Time management isn’t just about getting more done. It’s about being …
Productive at 110% sounds intense. But is this the model for achieving peak productivity, or is it a reflection of a more outdated notion of success? The Reality of Factory Productivity Let’s break this down. In a factory setting, productivity is measured by sheer volume. It’s about how many units you can produce in a …
Communication is not what it seems. Not every message requires an immediate answer, assuming it does create a chaotic workflow where everyone is constantly interrupted. Instead, companies should foster a culture that respects response times and encourages thoughtful, well-considered answers over instant replies. Creating policies around communication expectations can help set the tone for a …
Values matter more than you think. They steer us to paths we decide for ourselves, discern from good and bad. Many people find themselves in roles that not only drain their energy but also stifle their potential. But what if I told you that real career fulfilment is within your reach? If your idea of …
The future of full automation. The concept of full automation is becoming increasingly feasible. Machines and artificial intelligence (AI) are taking over virtually all roles traditionally performed by humans. For some companies, this vision is not merely a fantasy. It is a strategic goal to reduce the burden of hiring, training, and maintaining a human …
How to become a DevOps engineer is probably something on the minds of most people who want to embark on this wonderful career. It’s not an easy task if you’re starting from scratch. I’ve seen programs promising to make you a DevOps engineer in 18 days. However, there’s a lot to DevOps. The approach may …
Career development is essential in supporting employees’ and this development isn’t just about offering a job and expecting them to hit the ground running. Employees can quickly disengage without proper documentation, training, and continuous guidance, leading to lower productivity and higher turnover. Companies must foster an environment where employees feel supported, empowered, and equipped to …
When it comes to career growth, most of us find ourselves asking the same question: Who is responsible for our progression? Should it be up to the company to chart out a clear career path, or is it our job to take charge of our professional development? With more companies adopting an online learning approach, …
Interviews can be nerve-wracking. You walk into the room with hopes, dreams, and sweaty palms. But here’s the kicker: many of us sabotage our chances not by lacking qualifications but by committing some painfully common interview blunders. This article will break down the 20 interview mistakes you should never make. Why? Because sometimes, it’s not …
We are advancing into 2024 and beyond. The landscape of cloud engineering is evolving rapidly. This evolution is driven by technological advancements, shifting business needs, and growing demands for efficiency and innovation. Cloud computing remains a cornerstone of modern IT infrastructure, enabling organizations to scale operations, optimize resources, and drive digital transformation. This article delves …
Software engineering is one of the most lucrative career paths, with top professionals earning impressive salaries that can reach up to $400,000 or even $800,000 annually. These high salaries often reflect the value of the skills and expertise required, as well as the significant sacrifices and dedication needed to achieve such positions. This post explores …
Return to the office is the phrase of the hour again. After more than four years of global remote working, a wave of change is sweeping the tech industry. Major players like Amazon1, Santander, THG, Salesforce, Tesco, and Asos are summoning employees back to the office, effectively ending the hybrid work policies many have come …
AI job search tools are in the vogue now. From ordering food to writing emails, AI has found a place in virtually every aspect of our lives. Now, it’s also revolutionizing the way we find jobs. AI job search tools can craft resumes, compose emails, optimize workflows, and even generate cover or resignation letters. While …
A dysfunctional company can break you pretty badly. Imagine landing what you thought was the perfect job, only to find yourself in a toxic work environment. You’re dealing with passive-aggressive colleagues, narcissistic managers, micromanagement, and outright disrespect. The dysfunction seems to seep through every level of the organization. It’s mentally and physically draining, leaving you …
Mental fatigue, caused by endless social media streams and a perpetual barrage of information, has become a pervasive issue. This fatigue isn’t just a personal challenge but a widespread phenomenon impacting millions in the UK and beyond. The modern lifestyle, characterized by incessant swiping, multitasking, and an ever-present fear of missing out (FOMO), has fundamentally …
We’ve all heard the promises: “Use this app, and your productivity will skyrocket,” or “This tool will revolutionize how you work.” But here’s a thought—what if the key to real productivity isn’t the tools themselves but in how well we master the skills to use them effectively? This article is about cutting through the noise …
SRE professionals are a much-needed role. As organizations increasingly rely on digital infrastructure, the demand for robust and reliable systems has never been greater. Enter the Site Reliability Engineer (SRE)—a role that bridges the gap between development and operations. This role also ensures that systems run smoothly and efficiently. But what exactly does an SRE …
The shared leadership concept has sparked considerable debate in the evolving leadership landscape. Some question whether it genuinely impacts team dynamics or if it’s just another passing trend in management theory. Yet, many studies suggest that shared leadership isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a significant predictor of effective team processes. But what does this mean for …
Salary increase from £20,000 to £80,000 within three years is an ambitious yet achievable goal, particularly in the dynamic Information Technology (IT) field. This article will outline actionable strategies and provide insights based on facts and statistics from the UK, the US, and India. It will focus on how to accelerate your career progression and …
Whether you’re just starting your job search or looking for a career change, the following strategies will help you stand out and land the right job. This guide will cover essential aspects such as politeness, CV updates, open-mindedness, mental health, curiosity, mentorship, pursuing your dreams, and even creating your job. Context We are inundated with …
GeneratePress is a WordPress theme that’s both lightweight and robust. You might have stumbled upon GeneratePress. This review will examine what makes GeneratePress stand out and whether it matches its reputation. As someone who’s extensively navigated WordPress themes, I’ve come to appreciate the power of a well-crafted theme like GeneratePress. So, let’s unpack its features, …
DevOps leadership is not just a managerial function; it’s the driving force behind a team’s success in agile environments. But let’s be honest: leading a DevOps team is no walk in the park. How do you bridge the traditional gap between development and operations while fostering a culture of innovation? How do you keep pace …
An Engineering Manager plays a pivotal role in any technology-driven organization, bridging the engineering team and the more significant business. Their job involves managing projects, nurturing talent, ensuring alignment between technical and business goals, and driving innovation. While many think of engineering management as purely technical, it involves people and project management more dynamically. The …
Productivity has become more than just a goal—it’s a lifestyle, a badge of honour worn by those who hustle hard. It’s almost like a trendy T-shirt: one season it’s in. The next, it’s discarded for something new. But here’s the thing: productivity isn’t just about following the latest trend or ticking off items on a …
Microsoft 365 (M365) isn’t just a software suite. I’ve been around long enough to remember the days of Windows NT4. If you were there, too, you know the struggle was real. Back then, Microsoft was a different beast, and the IT landscape was far less polished. I’ve been using Microsoft Office since 1995, and let …
Many individuals face the reality of emigrating in search of better opportunities, driven by a combination of ambition, necessity, and hope for a better future. As an emigrant myself, I know firsthand that leaving behind family, friends, and the familiar to venture into unknown territory is a profound experience filled with challenges and rewards. This …
Fear is a powerful emotion, and as we approach 2025. Many of today’s anxieties will evolve, intensify, or take new forms. Some fears are rooted in real, rapidly changing circumstances. At the same time, others stem from our collective imagination or distrust in evolving technologies and systems. What will people fear most in 2025, and …
The rise of cloud computing has revolutionized the IT industry, offering unprecedented flexibility, scalability, and cost-efficiency to businesses worldwide. The adoption of cloud services has been particularly robust in the UK and the US. Businesses are driven by the need for digital transformation and cost management. Companies of all sizes are migrating their operations to …
Your first million is one of those announcements we all expect from our banker or someone else. Many aspire to earn their first million, yet only a small percentage achieve it. In fact, according to the Global Wealth Report 2023 by Credit Suisse, “individuals with more than $1 million in wealth sit in the top …
Productivity permeates our tech-driven world, and many of us turn to apps to gain control over our chaotic lives. Whether it’s a productivity app, a time management tool, or a calendar system, the promise is clear: “This will help you get organized.” But how often do we stop to question whether these tools are putting …
Career change is a transformative experience. Whether driven by dissatisfaction, personal growth1, or a newfound passion, switching paths can be both exhilarating and daunting. But here’s the good news: you’re not alone. Many people don’t know where to start when they decide to change careers or if they are simply starting anew. I suggest you …
The concept of infinite growth and endless profit has long driven the global economy. Large and tiny corporations have operated under the belief that success is measured by perpetual expansion, increasing profit margins, and relentless pursuit of market dominance. This approach, however, is increasingly being recognized as unsustainable, not just from an environmental standpoint but …
Mastering productivity is not hard. With countless demands on our time and attention, finding ways to stay focused and accomplish our goals can be challenging. However, a few key strategies can significantly enhance your productivity and help you make the most of your time. This guide will explore five essential productivity techniques: time blocking, setting …
Time is often cited as one of the most significant barriers to achieving our dreams. We frequently blame a lack of time, unforeseen obstacles, or others for not reaching our goals. But what if the real issue isn’t the scarcity of time but rather how we manage it? According to a survey by the American …
The term “click-bait” has become a common descriptor for content that appeals primarily to our emotions, luring us into clicking on links with promises of sensational, often misleading, information. This phenomenon has transformed how we consume content, leading to challenges and opportunities in our quest for truth and knowledge. The Rise of Click-Bait and Its …
WMS consultant to Cloud Architect: Transitioning from a Warehouse Management System (WMS) Consultant to a Cloud Architect might seem like a giant leap. This post is to help one of my mentees that want to acquire more know-how about cloud computing. After all, the two roles, while both rooted in technology, require very different skill …
2040 job prediction looks pretty different from past decades. AI is reshaping the job prediction market in ways unimaginable. The traditional employment landscape is shifting dramatically as technology continues to evolve, leading to the disappearance of certain jobs and the emergence of new ones. For anyone looking to future-proof their career, understanding these changes is …
My Dear, dear phone. From your origins as a bulky, stationary device that graced the halls of our homes to the sleek, ever-present companion nestled in our pockets today, the phone has evolved from a mere tool to something much more profound. It has become an extension of our very selves, shaping our behaviours, our …
Mundane content is here to stay. The entertainment landscape has transformed in ways that were unimaginable just a few decades ago. With the advent of streaming services, social media platforms, and endless on-demand content, we are now living in an era where entertainment is more accessible than ever before. However, this accessibility comes with a …
Everywhere you look, a guru is promising you the secret to becoming a productivity powerhouse. But here’s the thing: this constant push to optimize every aspect of our lives often overlooks a crucial truth—we’re human beings, not machines. The Fallacy of Maximum Productivity It’s tempting to believe that if we follow the latest productivity hacks …