
Soft Skills Engineering
It takes more than great code to be a great engineer. Soft Skills Engineering is a weekly advice podcast for software developers about the non-technical stuff that goes into being a great software developer.
Latest episodes

Jun 30, 2025 • 41min
Episode 467: I can't get promoted if I do my job and should I get a degree to get a job in this economy
In this episode, Dave and Jamison answer these questions:
I am a data scientist and was recently passed over for promotion to senior because my projects weren’t “senior level” enough, and I do too many ad hoc requests that delay delivery of my bigger projects.
I am a go to for VP and C suite level execs in my company and am commonly asked to help with incidents, all of which are main reasons my projects get delayed. At the same time, I am told by my manager that requests from these stakeholders/incidents are more important than my projects. Every time I try to push back and let stakeholders know that a project will be pushed back due to incidents, they all agree it’s the right prioritization. And yet, every single performance review I get the same feedback about too much as hoc work.
I would really like to try again for promotion but I feel like I haven’t been able to change my balance of ad hoc work at all (this is actually getting worse), and support from my manager is lackluster - I don’t feel like it’s even worth trying again in a few months. What can I do to change this dynamic? (Besides quitting!) or is this a poor management/process problem that I cannot solve myself?
A listener named Bob says,
I want to transition into web development at the least. I have been teaching myself, but I also know that the dev world is more about connections than anything else. I have reached out to multiple people but really have not gotten far. I really want a career transition. I have found a Bachelor of Science degree in web development at Full Sail University. I would graduate in 2.5 years. Is it worth it to take this program or keep self-learning and building out projects? I would be taking this degree all while making time for my family.

44 snips
Jun 23, 2025 • 30min
Episode 466: Bad performance review and moving in to the caves
The hosts tackle the emotional rollercoaster of receiving a negative performance review and the dilemma of accepting a new job offer. They discuss the importance of personal growth and rebuilding a reputation while balancing professional relationships. Listeners hear anecdotes that emphasize focusing on long-term career goals over temporary setbacks. Additionally, the conversation touches on the challenges of recognizing unsung engineering heroes and the art of using metaphors to simplify complex concepts for non-technical stakeholders.

25 snips
Jun 16, 2025 • 30min
Episode 465: Talking to your report's previous manager and how to replace a 30-year-old ticketing system
The hosts tackle the delicate art of communicating with former managers about new team members. They weigh the value of past feedback against the potential biases that come with it. Laughter ensues as they ponder the challenges of replacing a clunky, 30-year-old ticketing system. Insights reveal how ingrained habits can hinder change, but there's hope for modernization. Engaging anecdotes showcase how to appreciate the current system while nudging for progress, emphasizing the importance of careful integration when introducing new tools.

35 snips
Jun 9, 2025 • 50min
Episode 464: Rehiring an overpaid boomerang and AI has taken over my teammate's brain
Explore the quirky world of coding with humorous anecdotes about unusual practices. Dive into the complexities of rehiring former employees while juggling performance concerns and salary negotiations. Hear inspiring stories of personal transformation from difficult colleagues to team players. Discuss the implications of AI's growing role in software development, balancing efficiency with the risk of losing coding skills. Emphasize the importance of teamwork and shared standards in coding culture as AI continues to evolve.

18 snips
Jun 2, 2025 • 27min
Episode 463: CTO w/ weak resume and I tried management and it was TERRIBLE
The hosts dive into the career dilemma of a CTO feeling trapped in a stagnant role at a small startup. They tackle the emotional complexities of loyalty versus career growth, musing on the absurdities of management and the challenges of finding personal fulfillment. With a mix of humor and philosophy, they reflect on the burdens of leadership and the transition from being a founder to seeking new opportunities. The conversation is peppered with light-hearted banter, including whimsical anecdotes about geese, creating an entertaining atmosphere throughout.

42 snips
May 26, 2025 • 29min
Episode 462: Supporting laid-off employee and how to rebuild culture after layoffs
The hosts tackle the emotional challenges of supporting employees facing layoffs, sharing insights on how managers can provide effective support. They discuss the delicate balance of maintaining morale in a company with a drastically changed culture post-layoff. Strategies for rebuilding trust and engagement among remaining employees are explored, along with tips on setting boundaries during job searches. The conversation emphasizes clear communication and the psychological impacts of layoffs on both affected individuals and those who remain.

64 snips
May 19, 2025 • 33min
Episode 461: How to do side projects with a family and demanding job and my company promised me a raise, but didn't give it
The hosts tackle the tricky balancing act of managing a demanding tech job, family life, and personal projects. They share relatable anecdotes on the unique challenges remote workers face and the importance of strategic time management. The discussion takes a humorous turn as they navigate the frustrations of promised raises that never materialize, emphasizing clear communication in the workplace. Throughout, they offer valuable insights and encouragement for those striving to pursue their passions while juggling life's demands.

28 snips
May 12, 2025 • 33min
Episode 460: Losing autonomy and I got skipped for a promotion even though I'm awesome
In a captivating discussion, the hosts tackle the emotional rollercoaster of adjusting to a hands-on manager after experiencing autonomy. They share strategies for maintaining independence while fostering a productive relationship. The conversation also reveals the frustrations of unrecognized accomplishments and the murky waters of workplace promotions, highlighting the hidden politics behind recognition. Listeners are encouraged to communicate openly about career aspirations and navigate the complexities of collaboration amid competing corporate dynamics.

26 snips
May 5, 2025 • 23min
Episode 459: Am I cutting edge and how to compliment someone who went from super jerk to super nice
The hosts tackle the intricate world of fintech startups, focusing on onboarding integration challenges and the fine dance of regulatory compliance. They dissect the obstacles of siloed teams and the impact of Conway's Law on data solutions. Intellectual property and ethical data management are also discussed, highlighting the role of AI in sharing knowledge. Plus, there's heartfelt advice on complimenting a colleague who undergoes a significant transformation, reminding us how to acknowledge personal growth without revisiting past mistakes.

49 snips
Apr 28, 2025 • 34min
Episode 458: Infinite tech debt hack and figuring out what is going on
Dive into the chaotic world of technical debt, where addressing issues often leads to more problems. Discover how communication and collaboration can ease the stress of constantly shifting codebases. Listen as experts tackle the common feeling of disconnection in tech roles and the importance of aligning with team goals. Get tips on fostering engagement for career growth and the nostalgic role of internal wikis in team identity. Sprinkled with humor, this discussion makes navigating the tech landscape relatable and entertaining!