The DonTheDeveloper Podcast discusses the training and skills software developers need to get a job. Host Don Hansen turned his coding hobby into a profession. He now mentors new developers. Software engineering is a job market with no shortage of talented applicants. Hansen teaches listeners how to make themselves visible to employers.
The host warns that conventional resumes aren't always relevant in this industry. In this podcast, listeners get advice on where to spend their money and effort. Hansen offers networking ideas and job post interpretations. He also interviews new hires about their jobs.
The podcast describes what hiring managers want in junior developers. One episode features Hansen's first software boss, Danny Peck. The guest explains why he hired the newcomer. Hansen majored in psychology in college and worked as an aquatics director. He coded for fun and built his first web-hosting company at age 18. Hansen's boss noticed him on Twitch. Hansen was helping other developers. That positive attribute differentiated him.
Peck was also attracted to the podcast host's enthusiasm. He says candidates who lack energy won't get hired. Personalized cover letters are essential. Peck would hire a self-taught developer with a great attitude over one with a bachelor's degree. Listeners hear the attributes Peck seeks in candidates with no experience. Hansen offers tips for interview nerves. He streamed himself coding on Twitch to practice what it would be like having employers watch him. Peck recommends thinking of interviews as conversations. He suggests relaxed body language. It's also important to breathe between answers.
Hansen completed Fullstack Academy's Coding Bootcamp in 2017. He gives honest reviews about that program. Nucamp, General Assembly, Code Platoon, Springboard, and Northwestern University graduates share their experiences. Software engineer trainer Matt Oates is also a mentor to young developers. In one episode, he discusses the most critical algorithms and data structures. He differentiates between optional and essential technology training. Hansen notes it's important to choose projects that interest the developer. He explains the differences between front-end and back-end dev jobs. The DonTheDeveloper Podcast can help listeners secure jobs they enjoy and excel at.
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