It’s not because of the tech stack, programming languages, or libraries.

Choosing the right tech stack and libraries is a critical decision for the success of a software project.

But, in my experience, software projects fail due to unclear expectations and communication issues. Interestingly enough, I’ve heard the same thing about marriages.

Even, I’d dare to say that unclear expectations are a communication issue too.

I’ve been in software projects that use Domain-Driven Design, Test-Driven Development, and Kubernetes and sometimes end up late and going off the rails. It’s not a tech problem. It’s always a people problem.

Software projects fail when:

• Stakeholders fail to communicate their expectations.
• Leaders fail to communicate changes in project goals and scope.
• Leaders fail to communicate action plans.
• Team members fail to communicate technical issues on time.

One of the most common communication issues is waiting until the day before a deadline to say you’ve been dealing with a coding issue for weeks. But, in the meantime, you kept saying everything was fine. That would piss off any leader or project manager.

The lesson here is always to ask ourselves: Who else should I communicate this to?

From my recent software projects, I’ve learned more about leadership, communication, and hiring than about any specific programming language or library.

Hey, there! I’m Cesar, a software engineer and lifelong learner. Visit my Gumroad page to download my ebooks and check my courses.

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One thing I learned during my career as a software engineer is that leaving unfinished work to complete it “later” never works.

Resuming paused work is simply so hard that it hardly ever happens without external motivation.

Does it matter, though?

If the work was left unfinished not because it was deprioritized but because it was boring, tedious, or difficult, then more often than not, it does matter. The remaining tasks are usually in the “important but not urgent” category.

What happens if this work is never finished?

Sometimes, there are no consequences. Occasionally, things explode. In most cases, it’s a toll the team is silently paying every day.

From my observations, the most common software engineering activities left “for later” are these:

• adding tests
• fixing temporary hacks
• writing documentation

Adding test “later”

Insufficient test coverage slows teams down. Verifying each change manually and thoroughly takes time, so it is often skipped. This results in a high number of bugs the team needs to focus on instead of building new features. What’s worse, many bugs are re-occurring as there is no easy way to prevent them.

I don’t think there is ever a good reason to leave writing tests for “later.” The best developers I know treat test code like they treat product code. They wouldn’t ship a half-baked feature, and they won’t ship code without tests – no exceptions.

Fixing temporary hacks “later”

Software developers introduce temporary hacks to their code for many reasons. The problem is that there is nothing more permanent than temporary solutions. “The show must go on,” so new code gets added on top of the existing hacks. This new code often includes additional hacks required to work around the previous hacks. With time, adding new features or fixing bugs becomes extremely difficult, and removing the “temporary” hack is impossible without a major rewrite.

In an ideal world, software developers would never need to resort to hacks. The reality is more complex than that. Most hacks are added for good reasons, like working around an issue in someone else’s code, fixing an urgent and critical bug, or shipping a product on time. However, the decision to introduce a hack should include a commitment to the proper, long-term solution. Otherwise, the tech debt will grow quickly and impact everyone working with that codebase.

Writing documentation “later”

Internal documentation for software projects is almost always an afterthought. Yet, it is another area that, if neglected, will cause team pain. Anyone who has been on call knows how difficult it is to troubleshoot and mitigate an issue quickly without a decent runbook.

In addition, documentation also saves a lot of time when working with other teams or onboarding new team members. It is always faster to send a link to a wiki describing the architecture of your system than to explain it again and again.

One way to ensure that documentation won’t be forgotten is to include writing documentation as a project milestone. To make it easier for the team, this milestone could be scheduled for after coding has been completed or even after the product has shipped. If the entire team participates, the most important topics can be covered in just a few days.

How does “later” impact YOU?

Leaving unfinished work for “later” impacts you in two significant ways. First, it strains your mental capacity. The brain tends to constantly remind us about unfinished tasks, which leads to stress and anxiety (Zeigarnik effect). Second, being routinely “done, except for” can create an impression of unreliability. This perception may hurt your career, as it could result in fewer opportunities to work on critical projects.

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Navigating the job market can feel like a daunting journey, especially when your resume seems to vanish into the void, leaving you without even a first interview. It’s a common challenge many job seekers face, but there’s good news – it’s not insurmountable. The key lies in crafting an effective resume, your golden ticket, that captures the attention of recruiters and potential employers. This article will guide you through the essential do’s and don’ts of resume writing, helping you shine in a crowded job market. Let’s dive in and learn how to create a killer professional CV that opens doors to new career opportunities.

Avoid These Common Pitfalls

Heavy Blocks of Text

It’s important to understand that recruiters often have limited time to review each resume. They typically skim through them to find key information quickly. This means that resumes with dense, long paragraphs are less likely to hold their attention. By contrast, resumes with clear, concise content are more effective in catching and keeping a recruiter’s interest.

Wrong Format

If a job ad specifies a format, follow it religiously. This could be due to compatibility with the Applicant Tracking System (ATS). Ignoring format specifications can lead to a resume being directly rejected or overlooked. The ATS may fail to parse critical information from the resume or incorrectly categorize it, resulting in a lower ranking among other candidates. This makes adherence to the specified format not just a matter of preference but a critical step in ensuring the resume is effectively reviewed.

Bad styling

The choice of text colors and fonts in a resume can significantly impact its professionalism. Bright, flashy colors or hard-to-read fonts can appear unprofessional and may distract from the content of the resume. It’s important to remember that a resume is a formal document and its appearance should reflect that.

Europass CV

While the Europass CV format has been widely used for years, it’s increasingly viewed as outdated in today’s dynamic job market. Employers no longer specifically require this format, opening the door for more contemporary and innovative resume styles. Consider adopting newer formats that allow for greater flexibility and personalization, ensuring that your resume effectively showcases your unique skills and experiences.

False Information

Never lie on your resume. Overstating your position or qualifications can backfire, especially if the truth surfaces later. Never lie on your resume. Being honest and transparent about your skills and experiences is the best policy. Integrity speaks volumes. Always.

Irrelevant and Really Old Employment History

Ensure that your work experience aligns with the role for which you are applying. Highlight transferable skills if you are transitioning between industries, but avoid listing irrelevant job experiences or positions held more than two decades ago. There’s no need to mention the job you had as a teenager unless you’re a very young candidate with no prior experience.

Too Much Personal Info

In most Western countries, details like your street address, gender, age, religion, marital status, or nationality are unnecessary and can inadvertently lead to unconscious bias in the recruitment process. Recruiters and hiring managers are humans and may hold subconscious prejudices that could influence their decision-making. The focus should be on skills, experiences, and qualifications relevant to the job.

Inappropriate Email Address

Using a current work email for job applications is not advisable. It can be seen as unprofessional or a breach of your current employer’s trust. Moreover, it could lead to awkward situations if your job search becomes known to your current employer.

Additionally, email addresses that are frivolous, suggestive, or unprofessional (like hotguy69@example.com) can create a negative impression. Such addresses can be seen as immature or unprofessional, potentially leading recruiters to question the applicant’s judgment and professionalism. Remember, the contact information on a resume is often the first thing recruiters notice.

Questionable Work Experience

It’s generally advisable to omit experiences where you were fired or left under contentious circumstances. Including such experiences can raise red flags for potential employers and lead to uncomfortable questions during interviews. Unless you are Sam Altman and the whole world already knows you were kicked out, so it doesn’t matter if you put that in your resume. Just focus on positive experiences and achievements.

Past Salary Info – A big NO

Including past salary details on a resume is generally considered inappropriate and irrelevant. A resume is meant to showcase your skills, experiences, and achievements, not your financial history. Mentioning past compensation doesn’t add value to your qualifications for the job.

Stating your past salaries can also inadvertently set a benchmark for future compensation. If your previous salary was lower than the market rate for the position you’re applying for, you might be unintentionally setting a lower expectation for your new salary. Similarly, if your past salary was high, it might lead potential employers to assume you’re out of their budget.

Unnecessary Info About Previous Employers and Experience

Including the full address of previous employers on a resume is generally unnecessary. It’s not typically relevant to your qualifications or the job you’re applying for. Including just the city is sufficient to provide a geographical context of your past work experience.

Also, while it’s important to provide a timeline of your work history, the exact start and end dates (day, month, and year) of each employment are not necessary. Instead, listing the duration in years and months is usually adequate and simplifies the resume. This approach still gives potential employers a clear understanding of the length of time you spent in each role.

Personal Hobbies and Interests

Given the limited space on a resume, it’s crucial to prioritize the most important information. Including hobbies and interests can sometimes take up valuable space that could be used to elaborate on your skills and experiences. Unless they’re directly relevant to the job or add a unique dimension to your profile, it’s best to leave out hobbies and interests from your resume.

Fluff and Buzzwords

Terms like “results-oriented,” “team-player,” or “hardworking” are often overused in resumes and have become clichés. These terms are so broad and subjective that they fail to convey meaningful information about the candidate’s actual skills and experiences. Using clichéd phrases can make your resume blend in with countless others, reducing its ability to stand out. Recruiters who see these terms frequently may overlook them, diminishing the impact of your resume.

Errors

Nothing undermines a professional resume more than typos and grammatical errors. Such mistakes can give the impression of carelessness and a lack of attention to detail. In a document that’s meant to showcase your best self, errors can be a major detractor.

It’s essential to thoroughly proofread your resume multiple times. This helps catch any errors that might have been missed in earlier drafts. Proofreading is not just about checking for spelling mistakes, but also for grammatical errors, punctuation, and consistency in format and style.

Do Implement These Strategies

Clarity and Brevity Speak Volumes

The most effective resumes are clear, concise, and to the point. You can utilize bullet points to break down information into easily digestible pieces. Each bullet point can highlight a specific skill, achievement, or experience, making it easier for the recruiter to identify the candidate’s qualifications. This format also encourages the writer to be more concise and to the point.

Also, make sure you use short, impactful sentences to help you make a stronger impression. These sentences should be action-oriented, emphasizing achievements and skills. For example, instead of saying “I was involved in project management,” a more impactful sentence would be “Led a team of 10 in a successful project deployment.”

Make Your Resume a Perfect Fit

Generic resumes rarely make the cut. On the other hand, customizing the resume for each application, including formatting and content, shows that you have put thought and effort into your application and demonstrates your understanding of the role and its requirements. This customization can make a significant difference, especially when the job market is highly competitive.

Numbers Tell a Story

Quantify your achievements where possible. Numbers provide a concrete measure of your capabilities and make your accomplishments more tangible and credible. They offer a clear and objective way to demonstrate the extent of your contributions and successes. This can be particularly persuasive to potential employers, as it provides them with a measurable indicator of your capabilities. The use of infographics can also be a nice addition, wherever appropriate.

Keep it Clean and Professional

Your resume’s layout should be clean and organized, making it easy for recruiters to scan and appreciate your qualifications. Small details like font choice and spacing can make a big difference. In the end, well-executed minimalism is always classy and gets the right attention. Opting for standard, easy-on-the-eyes fonts (such as Arial, Times New Roman, or Calibri) and colors enhances readability and presents a clean, professional look. Standard fonts are also more likely to be compatible with ATS systems, ensuring that the text is parsed correctly.

Color psychology can also be subtly employed to influence how recruiters perceive your resume. Different colors can evoke different emotions and associations. For example, blue is often associated with trust and reliability, which might be beneficial for positions in finance or law. However, it’s crucial to understand the culture of the industry you’re applying to, as color perceptions can vary.

A Summary Can Make a Big Difference

A resume summary is a brief section at the top of a resume that highlights your key skills, experiences, and achievements. It provides a quick overview of your professional background and what you bring to the table. It’s especially beneficial for experienced professionals to help them concisely present a long and varied career. It allows them to showcase their most significant accomplishments and skills upfront, ensuring that these highlights don’t get lost in a lengthy work history.

It’s also a great option for those who have undergone a career change. A summary is particularly useful in outlining transferable skills. It can help draw connections between past experiences and the requirements of the new field or position. For example, a former teacher moving into corporate training can highlight skills in presentation, curriculum development, and educational needs assessment.

If you have no experience, a summary could help you as well by focusing on educational achievements, relevant skills, and personal attributes. It’s an opportunity to showcase enthusiasm, potential, and how one’s skills align with the job requirements. Tailoring this summary to each specific job application can help you highlight your suitability and readiness for the role.

Remember: a summary should be brief yet impactful. Typically, a few sentences are enough to convey the essential aspects of your background. The goal is to be succinct but powerful in your language.

The Power of Keywords

In the age of digital recruitment, including relevant keywords is vital. Use terms and phrases from the job description. This not only demonstrates that you’re a good fit but also helps your resume get past applicant tracking systems (ATS) that use AI. These systems scan resumes for specific keywords related to the job opening. Resumes that contain more of these keywords are more likely to be passed on for further review by a recruiter or hiring manager. However, be cautious of overloading your resume with keywords that can make your resume seem unnatural and even be flagged by more sophisticated ATS as potentially manipulative.

A Picture is Worth a Thousand Words

A professional headshot adds a personal touch to your resume. It gives a face to the name and can help create a connection with the recruiter or hiring manager. The headshot should represent you in a professional manner. This means choosing a photo where you are dressed in professional or business-appropriate attire, similar to what you would wear to a job interview for the role you are applying for.

The photo should be of high quality, with good lighting and focus. Ensure that your face is clearly visible, and the expression is friendly and approachable. The background of the photo should be neutral and non-distracting. A simple, solid color background or a professional setting is preferable. Avoid busy backgrounds that can take the focus away from you.

Cultural and Industry Considerations: It’s important to consider the cultural norms and industry standards when deciding to include a headshot. In some cultures and industries, adding a photo is common, while in others, it can be seen as unprofessional or unnecessary.

Continuous Updates: Keep It Fresh

Treating your resume as a living document means recognizing that it should evolve over time. As you gain new experiences, skills, and achievements, your resume should be updated to reflect these changes. This approach keeps your professional profile current and relevant. If you have an online resume or a LinkedIn profile, regular updates are equally important. These platforms are often the first place potential employers or recruiters will look to learn more about you.

In a Nutshell

Creating an effective resume is an art that requires attention to detail, a deep understanding of the job market, and a personal touch in branding. By following these tips, you’re not just creating a document; you’re crafting the first impression a potential employer will have of you. Let your resume reflect your professionalism, skills, and unique personality. Knowing how to create a professional CV, you’re well on your way to securing that coveted interview and stepping into your dream job. Remember, a great resume is the first step to career success.

Good luck with your job search!

Comment below to share your experiences and insights.

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Hello, job seekers! Welcome to another installment of our series on acing interview questions where we continue our series on acing those tricky queries. Today, we’re diving into a question that can make or break your chances: “How do you prioritize your work?” Now, I know what you’re thinking – prioritizing work sounds mundane. But trust me, mastering this skill separates the average from the exceptional.
This question aims to assess your ability to handle multiple responsibilities, meet deadlines, and stay focused amidst competing priorities. So, let’s dive in and learn how to answer this question in a way that showcases your strong prioritization skills and ability to handle workload efficiently.

Let’s start with a compelling introduction. Begin by acknowledging the significance of prioritization in the workplace and its impact on productivity and success. Highlight that you understand the value of effectively managing your time and resources. Now, it’s time to share your approach to prioritizing work. Let the interviewer know that you have a systematic method in place that helps you stay organized and meet your goals.

For the main part of your response, let’s explore some strategies to make your answer engaging and impactful. Share specific techniques you employ to prioritize your work effectively. Please talk about your process of evaluating tasks based on their importance, deadlines, and impact on overall goals. Emphasize your ability to identify urgent and time-sensitive tasks and allocate your time and resources accordingly. Discuss your approach to creating to-do lists, using project management tools, or employing other organizational methods to track and manage your workload. Highlight your ability to adapt and reprioritize when unexpected or high-priority tasks arise.

Additionally, showcase your ability to communicate and collaborate with team members and stakeholders. Share how you actively engage in discussions to clarify priorities and ensure alignment with team goals. Discuss your willingness to seek guidance or delegate tasks when necessary, showcasing your ability to leverage the strengths of others and maximize team efficiency.

In the summary, recap your prioritization strategies and emphasize the positive outcomes they have generated. Highlight your track record of meeting deadlines, delivering quality work, and maintaining high productivity. Convey your commitment to maintaining open lines of communication, proactively seeking feedback, and making adjustments as needed to make the best performance.

Remember, providing real-life examples and speaking from your own experiences is crucial. Tailor your answer to align with the specific requirements of the job you’re interviewing for. Employ a confident and enthusiastic tone to showcase your passion for efficient work management.

By effectively addressing how you prioritize your work, you’ll demonstrate your ability to handle multiple tasks, stay organized, and deliver results. So, go ahead and showcase your prioritization skills during your interview, leaving a lasting impression on the interviewer.

Best of luck with your interviews, and stay tuned for more tips in our series on acing interview questions!

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Hey there, job seekers! Welcome back to our series on acing interview questions. Today, we’re tackling a question that allows you to showcase how others perceive you in the workplace: “How would your boss and coworkers describe you?” This question allows the interviewer to gain insight into your working style, interpersonal skills, and overall fit within a team. So, let’s dive in and learn how to answer this question in a way that highlights your strengths and positive qualities.

First impressions matter, so let’s start with a strong introduction. You can begin by expressing gratitude for the question and the opportunity to discuss your relationships with your boss and coworkers. This shows humility and appreciation for the collaborative work environment.

Now, it’s time to highlight some of the positive qualities that your boss and coworkers would use to describe you. Think about the feedback you’ve received or qualities you know have contributed to your success in the workplace. Consider traits such as reliability, teamwork, communication skills, problem-solving abilities, or attention to detail.

Then, when answering this question, could you consider a few strategies to make your answer engaging and impactful? Provide concrete examples to back up your claims. Instead of simply stating that you’re a great team player, share a story or accomplishment demonstrating your ability to collaborate effectively. Discuss how you approach work and interact with your colleagues. Are you known for being organized, detail-oriented, or proactive? Highlight these traits and explain how they contribute to your effectiveness in the workplace.

In addition, share success stories if you’ve received recognition or praise from your boss or coworkers. Discuss a time when you contributed significantly to a project or received positive feedback for your performance. This demonstrates your impact and value as a team member.

Furthermore, mention your ability to adapt to today’s dynamic work environment. Highlight your flexibility and ability to handle challenges and change. Discuss how you’ve successfully navigated difficult situations or adapted to new roles or responsibilities.

Finally, let’s wrap up your response with a concise and confident summary. Recap the key attributes you’ve discussed throughout your response. Summarize the positive qualities and strengths you possess. Express your commitment to continuous growth, emphasizing your willingness to learn, grow, and improve in the workplace. Highlight your openness to feedback and your dedication to personal and professional development.

Conclude by conveying enthusiasm for teamwork. Express your passion for collaboration and your belief in the power of teamwork. This shows that you value the contributions of others and are committed to achieving collective success.

Remember, authenticity is key when answering this question. Be honest about your strengths, but avoid exaggeration or overstatement. Tailor your response to align with the specific qualities and skills valued in the job you’re interviewing for.

By confidently discussing how your boss and coworkers describe you, you’ll showcase your ability to contribute positively to a team and foster a supportive work environment. So shine a light on your professional reputation, and make a lasting impression during your interview.

Best of luck with your interviews, and stay tuned for more tips in our series on acing interview questions!

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Hey there, job seekers! Today, we’re diving into one of the most common and thought-provoking interview questions: “Where do you see yourself in five years?” This question gives employers a glimpse into your long-term career aspirations and helps them assess if you’re a good fit for their organization’s goals and culture. So, let’s break it down and learn how to answer this question confidently and clearly.

First things first, take a moment to reflect on your career goals. Where do you envision yourself in five years? Think about your passions, interests, and the direction you want your career to take. Having a clear vision will help you figure out your answer effectively.

Now, let’s go ahead and structure your response to showcase your ambition and alignment with the company.

You can start with enthusiasm: Begin your answer by expressing your enthusiasm for the position and the company. Please share why you’re excited about the opportunity and how it aligns with your long-term career aspirations.

Show realistic ambition: While it’s great to be ambitious, balancing ambition and realism is important. Avoid painting an unrealistic picture of yourself in a short timeframe. Instead, focus on steady growth and development within the organization.

Highlight your commitment to learning: Employers value candidates committed to continuous learning and personal growth. Demonstrate your willingness to acquire new skills and knowledge that will contribute to your success in the role and within the company.

Connect your goals to the company: This is where the magic happens. Show the interviewer that you’ve researched and understand the company’s goals, values, and future plans. Discuss how your goals align with the company’s vision and how you can contribute to its success.

Emphasize adaptability: In today’s ever-changing business landscape, adaptability is key. Mention your willingness to embrace new challenges and opportunities that may arise. Show that you’re open to taking on different roles or responsibilities if it aligns with your long-term goals.

Be flexible yet focused: While it’s essential to have a general idea of where you want to be in five years, also convey that you’re open to exploring different paths and opportunities within the organisation. This shows your flexibility and willingness to adapt to new circumstances.

Wrap it up with confidence: Please make sure to include your answer with a confident and positive note. Reiterate your commitment to the company’s success and express your excitement about the potential growth and opportunities.

Remember, your answer should be genuine and align with your career aspirations. Avoid providing a generic or vague response. Tailor your answer to reflect your unique goals and how they connect to the specific position and company.

So there you have it – a roadmap to tackle the “Where do you see yourself in five years?” question. With a clear vision, enthusiasm, and alignment with the company’s goals, you’ll leave a lasting impression on the interviewer. Stay true to yourself, showcase your ambition, and demonstrate your commitment to growth and success.

Now go out there and nail that interview! Your future is waiting for you!

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