Picture this, as 2022 wrapped up, a whopping 164,969 employees bid farewell to their tech havens across 1,064 companies. And just when we thought the stage was set for a calmer 2023, big shots like Twitter, Amazon, and even Microsoft decided to do a little employment tango, leading to a grand total of 262,595 employees saying their goodbyes from 1,188 tech firms. Now, here we are, grooving into 2024 with 24,584 more joining the laid-back brigade from 93 tech companies. While this might be scary, it is the right motivation for one to strive to keep one’s job.
As a software engineer, one might be deluded into feeling immune because they are able to deliver lines of code that work as at when due. Software engineers must recognise that the demand for diverse skills is expanding beyond technical expertise. One of the keys to safeguarding your career is continuous learning, and one of the fastest routes to upskilling is through targeted training and certifications. Stay tuned for more tips.
Earn Certifications for Remarkable Improvement
A pivotal IT Skills and Salary research by Skillsoft revealed that professionals experienced a 56% improvement in their work quality after obtaining certifications. This statistic emphasises the transformative impact of certifications on one's skill set. Earn relevant certifications in widely used programming languages, frameworks, or methodologies—such as AWS Certified Developer or Microsoft Certified: Azure Developer Associate—to elevate your credibility in the industry.
Contribute Actively to Open Source Projects
Participating in open-source projects on platforms like GitHub might seem time-consuming, but the benefits are manifold. Beyond showcasing your coding prowess, active contribution provides visibility within the developer community. A well-curated GitHub repository with diverse projects, accompanied by clear documentation, can serve as a powerful addition to your resume and LinkedIn profile. This, in turn, opens doors to more job opportunities and better compensation.
Participate in Coding Challenges and Competitions
Engage in coding challenges on platforms like LeetCode, HackerRank, or CodeSignal. Joining coding competitions, such as Google Code Jam or Topcoder, not only sharpens problem-solving skills but also amplifies your visibility in the eyes of potential employers. Strive to make a name for yourself by showcasing your abilities beyond coding proficiency.
Specialise in a Niche Area and Boost Visibility
Becoming an expert in a specific niche or emerging technology positions you as a valuable asset in the software engineering domain. Whether it's machine learning, blockchain, or cybersecurity, specialisation sets you apart. Elevate your visibility by creating a personal blog, technical website, or even a YouTube channel. Attend industry events, share insights, and expand your professional network. An inspiring example is Adora Nwodo, a former software engineer at Microsoft who has authored books and runs a successful YouTube channel. Another example is Hosanna Hali, a well-known tech influencer on YouTube and other social media platforms.
Build Real-world Applications
Demonstrate your practical skills by developing fully functional applications that address real-world challenges. Whether it's a mobile app, web service, or automation tool, tangible projects in your portfolio showcase your ability to apply theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios, making you a valuable asset in the eyes of potential employers.
As the software engineering landscape continues to evolve, staying relevant and competitive requires a proactive approach. Embrace these strategies to not only weather industry shifts but to thrive in them. The key is to showcase both depth and breadth in your technical expertise, positioning yourself as a dynamic and indispensable contributor to the ever-advancing world of software engineering. As the software engineering landscape continues to evolve, staying relevant and competitive requires a proactive approach. Embrace these strategies to not only weather industry shifts but to thrive in them. The key is to showcase both depth and breadth in your technical expertise, positioning yourself as a dynamic and indispensable contributor to the ever-advancing world of software engineering. And to employers, the onus is on you to ensure proper human management in order to employ and retain quality talents. Join this masterclass titled "Building a Futureproof Workforce" happening on the 29th of February.
