

Soft Skills Engineering
Jamison Dance and Dave Smith
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.
Episodes
Mentioned books

44 snips
Feb 10, 2025 • 30min
Episode 447: Overleveled at FAANG and accidental draft feedback
The hosts dive into the challenges of transitioning from startups to senior roles in major tech companies. They discuss the shift from individual contributions to leading projects and the intricacies of understanding corporate expectations. A listener's experience with commenting on draft pull requests sparks a lively debate about workplace feedback culture. The conversation highlights the balance between giving constructive feedback and maintaining team dynamics, peppered with humor about common code review pitfalls.

13 snips
Feb 3, 2025 • 33min
Episode 446: Wading through AI slop and they don't get git
The hosts dive into the murky waters of AI-driven hiring, offering tips for managers to sift through the chaos of AI-generated resumes. They tackle the struggle of developers underutilizing Git, highlighting the importance of regular code commits and effective version control. The discussion includes how to persuade teams to adopt better source control practices, emphasizing the need for leadership support and peer encouragement. With humor peppered throughout, they navigate the complexities of technology adoption in software development and the generational shifts affecting coding practices.

11 snips
Jan 27, 2025 • 26min
Episode 445: Staying at my first job and my coworker is insulting other departments
The hosts humorously dive into the quirky world of software engineering, sharing personal anecdotes along the way. They discuss the delicate balance between job satisfaction and career ambition, especially for those still in their first position after several years. The conversation touches on the 'secretary problem' and how it impacts decision-making. Listeners are provided insight into handling challenging coworker dynamics and managing workplace conflicts while maintaining professionalism. They also mix in some lighthearted math to explore job offers.

45 snips
Jan 20, 2025 • 31min
Episode 444: Surrounded by apathetic coworkers and put it on my resume?
Frustrated with apathetic coworkers and legacy company cultures? Discover strategies for finding a vibrant team that aligns with your product-thinking passion. The discussion shifts to accurately reflecting technical skills on resumes, tackling the thin line between confidence and exaggeration. Learn about the impact of AI on job hunting and the need for concrete examples of proficiency. Plus, explore the common disconnect between self-assessed skills and reality in the competitive tech market.

68 snips
Jan 13, 2025 • 36min
Episode 443: Does my PM hate me? and My coworker has anxiety when I help
Dive into the complexities of workplace dynamics as the hosts tackle feelings of being undervalued by a Product Manager who seems warm to others but cold to one team member. They also explore how to support junior engineers battling anxiety during mentoring sessions, emphasizing the importance of open communication and building trust. With a blend of humor and insight, they discuss personal biases, public recognition, and strategies to foster healthier collaborations in the workplace.

33 snips
Jan 6, 2025 • 32min
Episode 442: Improving communication skills and how to break my job hopping habit
Discover how to enhance your communication skills while juggling computer science courses. The hosts dive into the art of clarity and effective messaging, sharing personal anecdotes along the way. Learn about the challenges of job hopping and the quest for satisfaction versus career advancement. They explore strategies to overcome the 'grass is greener' syndrome and emphasize the importance of finding fulfillment in your current role. Get ready for a blend of humor, insights, and practical advice!

12 snips
Dec 30, 2024 • 23min
Episode 441: Will working in healthcare hurt my reputation and precious wisdom
The hosts tackle the challenges of considering job offers from large healthcare companies amid public scrutiny. They humorously weigh the impact of reputational risks against the desire for career advancement. A vivid discussion unfolds around aligning personal ethics with professional choices. The conversation also touches on the complexities faced when transitioning into new roles and the emotional undertones of inheriting legacy code. Plus, enjoy some light-hearted banter that keeps the mood lively and engaging!

24 snips
Dec 23, 2024 • 37min
Episode 440: How do I help my boss not burn out and should I tell people I'm older than I am?
In this entertaining discussion, the hosts tackle the challenges of workplace stress, particularly about a manager on the brink of burnout. They share strategies for supporting stressed team members while respecting professional boundaries. The conversation shifts to humorous aspects of aging, exploring perceptions of youthfulness in the workplace and the quirks of having a 'baby face.' Personal anecdotes lighten the mood, as the speakers emphasize collaboration over rivalry among colleagues, regardless of age.

31 snips
Dec 16, 2024 • 23min
Episode 439: Harried VP of Eng and first startup job
The hosts tackle the complexities of working under an overwhelmed leader, offering practical tips to navigate these challenging dynamics. They share insights on how an ineffective leader can hinder team progress and stress the importance of constructive feedback. The discussion shifts to the exciting yet daunting transition from a corporate job to a startup, highlighting the need for adaptability and proactive engagement. Listeners gain valuable strategies for integrating smoothly into a new, fast-paced work environment.

20 snips
Dec 9, 2024 • 42min
Episode 438: Software job after prison and working 60 hours per week at age 20 and feeling unfulfilled
The conversation dives into the unique journey of learning to code while incarcerated and the challenges faced when reentering the tech job market. Personal connections and soft skills become crucial in overcoming societal stigma. A candid discussion ensues about the demanding work culture, with listeners reflecting on long hours and feelings of unfulfillment at a young age. The importance of balancing work commitments with personal relationships and meaningful life choices is emphasized, encouraging listeners to seek true satisfaction beyond career ambitions.


