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 …
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 …
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. …
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, …
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 …
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 …
“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 …
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 …
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 …
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 …
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 …
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 …
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 …
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 …
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 …
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 …
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 …
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 …
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 …
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 …
Performance reviews for engineers, whose roles often involve complex, long-term projects and constant adaptation to new technologies, the annual performance review may not be the most effective tool for evaluating progress, fostering growth, or aligning with the fast-paced nature of the work. Frequent Review Cycles Instead, a more frequent review cycle, such as biannual performance …
A data engineer does matter in today’s businesses. In a world without data—no recommendations when you open your favourite app, no smart suggestions when searching for something online, and no intelligent systems making your workday easier. Sounds strange, right? That’s because data has become an integral part of our lives, often working behind the scenes …
DevOps Engineer in six months may sound ambitious, but it’s possible if you break it down into manageable steps. By dedicating 2 hours a day, you can build the foundational skills required for a DevOps role. Keep in mind, that this is a journey, and the key to success lies in consistency, adaptability, and focus …
Here are 25 top qualities employers look for in job candidates. Learn how you can highlight them in your resume, cover letter, Github, YouTube channel, and interviews. Certain personal and professional qualities will consistently help you stand out to employers. These qualities are highly sought after across industries, making them essential for anyone seeking their …
DevOps whiz! If you’re navigating the expansive ocean of deployment strategies, you’re in the right place. Deployments are like the grand finale of a symphony—when everything comes together to create harmony, or, well, sometimes a bit of chaos. As a DevOps engineer, understanding various deployment types isn’t just a nice to have; it’s crucial for …
DevOps engineers can have difficult days. Ever wonder how to survive—and thrive—in the whirlwind of your daily duties? Let’s dive into how you can plan your day with a blend of efficiency, relaxation, and fun. From Agile ceremonies to Git madness, meetings galore. Carving out time for yourself is crucial. We’ve got the ultimate roadmap …
Good engineer are scarse. In the ever-evolving world of technology, there’s a prevailing notion that success as an engineer hinges on adherence to specific frameworks, methodologies, or aligning with the big names of the industry like FAANG (Facebook, Apple, Amazon, Netflix, Google), DAANG, or MAANG, whatever. While these companies and their practices undoubtedly have their …
In our modern society, work often defines us. It shapes our identities, dictates our routines, and influences our self-worth. From an early age, we’re programmed to view employment as a central aspect of our lives—a means to achieve financial stability, gain social status, and contribute to the economy. But as we spend countless hours in …
LinkedIn offers significant benefits for content distribution and professional networking, but relying solely on this platform can limit your potential. Instead, investing in your own site—even if it’s just a single page—can provide a more stable and versatile foundation for your content strategy. This article explores why LinkedIn is a valuable tool for content creation …
Start reading, if you’ve ever found yourself struggling to concentrate, constantly checking your phone, or feeling overwhelmed by the incessant buzz of notifications, you’re not alone. Many of us grapple with these challenges, often feeling as though our attention spans have shrunk in tandem with the size of our screens. But what if there was …
Tutorials typically show you how to do something step-by-step, but they rarely explain why it’s done in that particular way or how to adapt it to different circumstances. Have you ever completed a tutorial only to feel unsure about applying what you’ve learned in real-world situations? Tutorials are great for teaching us the basics, but …
Checklists guarantee a spacecraft’s safe launch to organizing a dinner party; the effectiveness of checklists can’t be overstated. NASA’s use of checklists is legendary, and for good reason. They guarantee nothing is overlooked, even in the most intricate and high-pressure scenarios. Yet, despite their proven efficacy, many companies and individuals still shy away from using …
Growing your pay: Many professionals believe that changing jobs is the only way to secure a significant salary increase. While it’s true that moving to a new employer can often result in a substantial pay bump, there are also effective strategies for achieving a salary increase within your current organization. If your CV shows a …
Career planning for senior professionals who have spent decades in one organization, the idea of transitioning to a new job or updating a resume can seem daunting. Many professionals find themselves in this situation unexpectedly, often when faced with redundancy or a career shift. This article will provide a comprehensive guide to career planning for …
Career planning can be both exciting and overwhelming. The transition from education to the professional world brings new opportunities, challenges, and decisions. For many, the question of how to gain clarity in one’s career planning is paramount. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate this crucial phase with confidence and purpose. 1. Self-Assessment: Understanding …
Mentoring for busy professionals requires some delicate approach. Online career mentoring offers these individuals a convenient and efficient way to gain guidance and advance their careers without disrupting their busy schedules. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into how fast and effective online career mentoring can help professionals manage their time better, prioritize their goals, …
Focused learning can help. With endless resources at our fingertips, the possibilities seem infinite, and the urge to dive into multiple topics at once is overwhelming. But this enthusiasm often leads to a scattered approach, where you start many things but finish none. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. The solution? Learn to focus …
Comprehensive interview panels are interesting, back in 2018, I found myself in an intriguing position while working for an e-commerce company: I had the responsibility of hiring a junior software developer for my Cloud Team. This experience left a lasting impression on me, not only because of the individual I eventually hired but also because …
Whether you’re a network engineer, software developer, cybersecurity specialist, or IT project manager, efficiently acquiring and retaining vast amounts of information is crucial for success. This is where this process —a scientifically proven learning technique—comes into play. Not only does it enhance one’s ability to retain and recall critical information, but it also helps build …
Having a study plan, whether you’re working towards a specific certification, mastering a new skill, or simply aiming to deepen your knowledge in a particular area, a study plan can be the difference between success and stagnation. As a mentee, leveraging a study plan allows you to maximize your learning, stay organized, and achieve your …
Sometimes, professionals often find themselves caught up in the whirlwind of projects, deadlines, and ever-evolving technologies. Amid this chaos, one aspect that can sometimes take a backseat is personal financial growth—specifically, increase salary . While it’s easy to assume that raises will come automatically with time or that your employer will recognize your value, the …
Transitioning from a service desk role to an engineering manager position is an ambitious and rewarding career goal. It requires a deliberate combination of technical skill development, strategic career planning, proactive networking, and a commitment to continuous learning. This guide offers a step-by-step approach to help you make this transition, complete with practical advice, real-world …
Future-proofing your career to stay competitive and achieve success in any field, staying current is essential. Future-proofing your career means embracing strategies that allow you to adapt, learn new skills, and stay ahead in a constantly changing landscape. This can be challenging, especially in today’s fast-paced and unpredictable environment. With the rapid advancements in AI, …