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Front End Happy Hour

Episode 208 - Why most new developers struggle: The missing skills you need

Sep 2, 2024
Join Ryan Burgess, expert in developer growth, Jem Young, seasoned coder, Brian Holt, advocate for continuous learning, and mentor Dan DiGangi as they explore the struggles new developers face. They discuss the crucial role of curiosity and non-technical skills in bridging the gap between education and real-world success. Insights on tackling 'LinkedIn-itis,' the importance of mentorship, and the value of accurate work estimates take center stage. Plus, personal experiences and a focus on meaningful connections in the tech community add depth to the conversation.
49:51

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Many junior developers suffer from 'LinkedIn-itis,' focusing on trendy skills over deep understanding, hindering their technical interview readiness.
  • To sustain growth after securing a job, developers must engage in personal projects and continuous learning, maintaining relevance in the tech industry.

Deep dives

Common Gaps in Junior Developers

Many junior developers often exhibit what is referred to as 'LinkedIn-itis,' where they focus on acquiring the latest, most popular skills in a shallow manner instead of developing a deep understanding of their chosen technologies. This tendency leads to a superficial grasp of multiple topics, making them ill-prepared for technical interviews where deeper knowledge is crucial. As an illustrative example, when reviewing GitHub profiles of aspiring developers, one frequently finds projects that are merely tutorials rather than original contributions, showcasing a lack of depth and personal initiative. Thus, building genuine expertise and focus is essential for success in the competitive tech industry.

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