How to Get a Software Developer Job (in any economy)

Summary

This video script offers a comprehensive guide for aspiring self-taught software developers seeking their first job. It covers essential skills like front-end technologies (JavaScript, HTML, CSS, React) and back-end development, emphasizing the importance of a strong portfolio to demonstrate credibility. The speaker advises starting job applications early, leveraging networking and informational interviews to stand out, and continuously improving one's skills and projects to increase job prospects.

Takeaways

• 💻 **Self-taught to Software Developer**: The speaker shares their personal journey from being self-taught to landing a job as a software developer.
• 🚀 **Three Main Topics**: The video covers what you need to know, when to start applying, and the most effective way to apply for a developer job.
• 🌐 **Evolving Tech Skills**: The tech industry changes rapidly, so skills required for a software developer role are not static.
• 🛠️ **Full Stack Developer Skills**: For a full stack developer, understanding front-end technologies (JavaScript, HTML, CSS, React, Next.js) and back-end technologies (Node.js, databases) is crucial.
• 📈 **Use the Roadmap**: The roadmap is a living document that provides an updated guide on what to learn to become a self-taught developer.
• 📝 **Credibility through Projects**: Having a portfolio of projects is key to demonstrating your skills and credibility as a developer.
• 🔍 **Apply Early and Often**: Start applying for jobs as soon as you have a credible portfolio, even if you're still learning.
• 💼 **Resume vs. Interview**: While the resume gets you the interview, it's the interview that secures the job, so focus on both.
• 🤝 **Networking is Key**: Building personal connections and networking can significantly increase your chances of getting hired.
• 📈 **Continuous Improvement**: Always work on improving your skills and portfolio to stand out from the crowd and increase your job prospects.

Q & A

What is the main focus of the video?

The video focuses on sharing advice for self-taught developers on how to get their first job in the software development field.

What are the three main topics covered in the video?

The three main topics covered are: what skills are needed to get a job as a software developer, when to start applying for jobs, and the most effective way to apply for jobs.

What is the current recommended skill set for a full stack software developer?

For a full stack software developer, the recommended skill set includes understanding front-end technologies like JavaScript, HTML, CSS, and frameworks such as React or Next.js, as well as backend technologies, typically involving a server framework adjacent to a programming language, and knowledge of databases, either SQL or NoSQL.

How does the speaker suggest staying updated with the evolving tech requirements?

The speaker suggests checking out a roadmap that is regularly updated to reflect current tech requirements and learning the technologies listed there.

What is the importance of having a portfolio when applying for developer jobs?

A portfolio is critical as it serves as proof of concept and demonstrates credibility, showcasing the developer's skills through projects that are live and functioning on the internet.

At what point should a self-taught developer start applying for jobs?

A self-taught developer should start applying for jobs as soon as they have a portfolio that they feel confident in showing, demonstrating their capabilities.

What is the speaker's stance on the role of resumes in the job application process?

The speaker clarifies that while resumes get you the interview, it's the interview that can guarantee you the job, suggesting that more time should be spent on networking and personal presentation than on perfecting the resume.

How does networking play a role in getting a job as a developer?

Networking is crucial as it helps establish a personal connection, which can lead to informational interviews, internal referrals, and potentially job offers even when there are no advertised positions.

What is the recommended approach to improve one's chances of getting hired?

The recommended approach includes continuous self-improvement, such as developing better projects, networking, and focusing on personal presentation to stand out from other applicants.

What resources does the speaker recommend for someone learning to code?

The speaker recommends the learn to code roadmap and specific videos for guidance on projects to build, suggesting these resources are linked in the video description.

What is the significance of informational interviews in the job search process?

Informational interviews are significant as they provide an opportunity to learn about roles, demonstrate capabilities, and potentially lead to job referrals or offers.

Outlines

00:00

💻 Becoming a Self-Taught Developer

The speaker shares their personal journey of teaching themselves to code and securing a job as a software developer. They highlight the desire of many to enter the tech job market and the importance of the video's content. The video aims to provide insights on getting a first job as a self-taught developer, covering three main points: the necessary skills, the right time to start applying for jobs, and the most effective job application strategies. The speaker emphasizes the dynamic nature of tech skills, especially with the advent of AI, and suggests checking a roadmap for updated learning paths. They outline the importance of front-end and back-end technologies, mentioning JavaScript, HTML, CSS, React, Next.js, Node.js, and database systems. The speaker advises that having a strong portfolio of projects is crucial for demonstrating credibility and readiness for job applications.

05:01

📈 Demonstrating Credibility with Projects

The speaker discusses the importance of having a credible portfolio to apply for developer jobs. They recommend starting with front-end development and then moving to back-end to build a full-stack portfolio. The speaker suggests that once a candidate feels confident in their projects, they should begin applying for jobs. They also mention a video resource for project ideas and emphasize the significance of networking and personal image in the job application process. The speaker advises that while resumes and cover letters are important, they should not consume the majority of job seekers' time. Instead, they recommend focusing on public presentation and networking, including reaching out to people in the recruitment process and conducting informational interviews to establish personal connections and demonstrate one's capabilities.

10:03

🔗 Networking and Self-Improvement for Job Success

The speaker stresses the importance of networking and self-improvement in securing a job as a self-taught software developer. They explain that informational interviews can lead to job opportunities, even when positions are not advertised. The speaker encourages job seekers to connect with people in their desired field and to be genuinely interested in their work, which can lead to internal referrals. They also suggest that if job seekers are not getting the desired results, they should focus on improving their portfolio and communication skills rather than just sending out more applications. The speaker concludes by reiterating the importance of the strategies discussed and encourages viewers to take action, providing links to resources in the video description.

Keywords

💡Self-taught developer

A self-taught developer is an individual who has acquired programming skills primarily through personal study and practice, rather than formal education. In the video, the speaker shares their own journey as a self-taught developer, emphasizing the importance of self-learning in the tech industry. This concept is central to the video's theme, as it encourages viewers to take charge of their own education and career development.

💡Software developer

A software developer is a professional who designs, codes, tests, and maintains software applications. The video discusses strategies for becoming a software developer, particularly focusing on the self-taught path. The speaker provides advice on the skills and knowledge necessary to secure a job in this field, which is integral to the video's objective of guiding viewers on their career journey.

💡Tech job market

The tech job market refers to the labor market for technology-related jobs, including software development, data analysis, and IT support. The video addresses the competitive nature of this market and offers insights on how to stand out when seeking employment as a developer. The concept is used to highlight the challenges and opportunities within the industry.

💡Full stack developer

A full stack developer is a software engineer who has the ability to work on both front-end and back-end development. The video mentions full stack development as a target role for those looking to enter the tech job market, emphasizing the need to understand both client-side and server-side technologies.

💡Front-end technologies

Front-end technologies refer to the tools and frameworks used to create the user interface and experience of a software application. The video highlights JavaScript, HTML, CSS, and front-end frameworks like React and Next.js as essential skills for front-end development. These technologies are crucial for building visually appealing and interactive web applications.

💡Back-end technologies

Back-end technologies are the server-side components that support and enable front-end functionality. The video suggests that a back-end developer should be proficient in a server framework like Node.js, along with a programming language, to handle server logic, databases, and application security.

💡Database

A database is a structured collection of data stored and managed electronically. The video mentions SQL and NoSQL databases as important skills for developers, as they are essential for managing data storage and retrieval in applications. Understanding databases is key to building robust and scalable software systems.

💡Portfolio projects

Portfolio projects are personal software projects that demonstrate a developer's skills and expertise. The video stresses the importance of having a portfolio to showcase one's work to potential employers. These projects serve as proof of a developer's capabilities and are a critical component of a job application in the tech industry.

💡Resume

A resume is a document that outlines a job applicant's professional experience, skills, and education. The video discusses the misconception that a resume alone can secure a job, clarifying that while it is important for getting an interview, it is the interview that can guarantee a job offer. The speaker advises focusing on networking and improving one's skills rather than solely on resume writing.

💡Networking

Networking refers to the process of building and nurturing professional relationships. In the context of the video, networking is presented as a key strategy for job seekers, especially through platforms like LinkedIn. The speaker recommends reaching out to people in the industry for informational interviews, which can lead to job referrals and opportunities that are not publicly advertised.

💡Informational interview

An informational interview is a casual conversation with a professional to gain insights into their job or industry. The video suggests using informational interviews as a networking tool to learn about job roles and potentially secure referrals. This approach helps job seekers to connect with industry professionals on a personal level and stand out from other applicants.

Highlights

Self-taught individuals can successfully enter the tech job market as software developers.

Three main topics covered: what to know to get a job, when to start applying, and how to apply effectively.

Front-end technologies like JavaScript, HTML, CSS, and frameworks such as React are crucial.

For backend, JavaScript-based Node.js is recommended along with knowledge of databases.

Having a live project portfolio is essential to demonstrate credibility.

The roadmap is a valuable resource for staying updated on necessary skills.

Resumes should match job requirements to integrate effectively into a company's workflow.

Apply for jobs as soon as you have a credible project portfolio.

Starting with front-end development and then moving to full-stack can be an effective strategy.

Networking and personal image are more important than focusing on resumes and cover letters.

Reach out to people in the recruitment process for informational interviews.

LinkedIn can be leveraged for networking and finding job opportunities.

Internal referrals can lead to job opportunities even when positions are not advertised.

Improving your portfolio and communication skills can increase your chances of getting hired.

The video provides actionable advice for self-taught developers to secure their first job.

Using platforms like h.sh can streamline the job application process.

Transcripts

some of you may know this about me some

of you may not but not so long ago I

taught myself how to code managed to

weasle my way into a job as a software

developer inside of the tech job market

now this is pretty covered a lot of

people want to do and I think it's a

great thing to do and in this video I'm

going to share with you everything you

should know if you want to get your

first job as a self-taught developer now

this will also work if you're looking to

get job as a developer uh whether or not

you have experience and the main three

things we're going to cover in this

video first and foremost is what you

need to know to get a job in the first

place number two is when should you

start applying for jobs a lot of people

leave it way too late and they could

have had a job much much earlier and

number three what is the most effective

way to apply for jobs to land your role

as a

developer so it should be a weapon of a

video loads of good advice and by the

end of it you will have all the

knowledge you need you'll be extremely

well equipped to go out there into the

vast open ocean of jobs available on the

you know all the job sites and land your

developer

role now first questions first what

exactly do you need to know to get a job

as a software developer and it's a

really interesting question because the

answer is always changing Tech evolves

extremely quickly especially with AI

coming out at the moment what you need

to know is never a fixed answer and I'm

going to give you an answer for this

current snapshot in time if you're

looking to get a job as a software

developer specifically a full stack

software developer you need to

understand front end and you need to

understand backend Technologies on the

front end side that's predominantly

going to be JavaScript HTML CSS and some

front-end JavaScript Frameworks such as

react react is definitely the most

popular another good one is nextjs both

of them are very cool as for the

backend backend can be done in just

about any programming language but

normally there is a framework a backend

uh server framework that you'll learn

adjacent to the programming language if

you're already learning JavaScript for

the front end then I'd recommend no JS

for the back end and if you can do all

of that plus some database stuff either

a SQL or nosql database

system and deploy it live to the

internet then you should be in tiptop

shape that's all the knowledge you

should need to get your foot on the door

and get your first job as a

developer now in saying that you know

before I commented that the tech always

changes so how do you know what you

should be learning well first and

foremost is that you should check out

the road map because the road map is

always updated and maintained it teaches

you everything you need to know to get a

job as a self-taught developer so

whatever's in the road map is what you

should be learning but that information

is basically created from research where

you know if you go to LinkedIn and look

at hundreds of jobs you'll find some

core requirements amongst a lot of them

and that's the technology that's

recommended for you to learn so

basically you have a huge pool of job

applications you've got all the relevant

technology that people are looking for

all of those skill sets and having been

in the involved in the recruitment

process for hiring software developers

the thing that is most critical is that

the expertise and stuff that you have in

your resume needs to match what we're

looking for in this company because

that's just going to mean that you can

effectively integrate into the workflow

of the company and you'll get hired in

no time so check out the road map that

has everything you need to know you can

go through check off all the items and

that should have you sorted for question

one what do you need to know now before

we dive into the most effective way to

get a job first we're going to talk

about when can you start applying for

jobs you want to start as soon as

possible but what does that even

mean so if you want to get a job the cor

requirement that you have to meet is CR

you have to find a way to demonstrate

credibility you have to be a credible

High candidate and the only way you know

if you don't have an accreditation you

don't have a qualification the way that

you prove your credibility is by you

know proof of concept you have projectss

portfolio projects specifically when I

got my job my interviews were literally

just me raving about how awesome my

projects were they were appalling but I

thought they were you know the best

thing on planet Earth uh so it's

critical that you also have projects

that you can show off you can show the

codebase you can show the challenges

that you've you know conquered uh or

overcome to deploy them and have them

live and functioning on the internet

most big Tech companies are just a

bigger version of a lot of full stack

personal

projects uh so that's basically point is

is that if you can get some projects

together you can suddenly start to

really demonstrate your credibility and

as soon as you have projects in a

portfolio that you feel confident

showing then you can start applying for

jobs now if you're desperate to get into

Tech the way I'd recommend doing this is

start off this is how the road map is

built as well start off learning front

end development do some front-end

projects get a frontend portfolio

prepared start applying for front-end

jobs learn the backend stuff build some

full stack projects and then you can

start applying for full stack jobs if

you haven't already got a front-end job

already once again if you want to know

exactly what projects to build I have a

video specifically for that Linked In

the description down below so be sure to

check that out so that's the first two

questions answered what do you need to

know we've covered that go to the road

map number two how do you know when

you're ready to start applying basically

do you have stuff that demonstrates your

capability if yes start applying

today now number three this is arguably

the most important question what's the

most effective way to apply for jobs to

actually land the role and there's a bit

of a process that I recommend for this

the first thing that you have to

understand there's a lot of mix

messaging on the

internet I often see people coming out

raving saying this resume got me a job

at Fang a Fang company and I'm just

going to come straight out the bat and

say that that is

misinformation the rese gets you the

interview the interview is what can

guarantee you the job so a lot of people

end up spending all their time on their

resumés and cover letters and all that

kind of stuff thinking that that's going

to be you know their golden egg their

golden ticket into the job it's actually

not where you should be dedicating a lot

of your

time so to cut down on the time just you

know Linked In the description down

below is higher Dosh it's my platform it

helps make this process incredibly fast

I'd recommend checking it out just you

know sign up free try it out see if you

like it it will save you countless hours

in your job hunt now so we've trimmed

down on the cover letter and resume what

are we actually meant to be doing

then this part is twofold it's it's all

about a your Public Presentation Your

Personal Image and B

networking

now in addition to credibility the thing

that will get you a job is uh personal

attachment to you so if people have met

you and they like

you but how do you get people to know

you especially randoms on the internet

if you can't get an interview in the

first place well this is where most of

your time needs to be spent and

basically there's two things you have to

do the first part this is absolutely

critical is whenever you apply for a job

at a company you've you know prepared

your application with h.sh you submit it

it takes about 2 minutes this is where

you got to do the hard yards you have to

find someone to reach out to that's

involved in the recruitment process it

could be the CEO of the company the

hiring

manager send them a message and say you

know I saw this job was posted I'd love

to have a chat and learn more about the

opportunity I feel like I'd be a prime

candidate you know and send a connection

request on LinkedIn now if you want a

specific messaging template for that

that will also be linked in the

description down below you can just copy

and paste it and send it basically how

it works is free you send a connection

request and you add a note to it uh

brilliant thing to do people love the

initiative and if you can get a free

informational interview now this is not

a job you're talking about the role but

it kind of as a job at the same time you

can't approach it from that lens but

it's as good as an interview because in

either either a legitimate interview or

an informal

informational informational interview

basically all you're doing is you're

asking about the role demonstrating your

capabilities showing what you've done uh

and just letting them get to know you

which is critical and if you can show

that you're a cool person uh and you

have the skill set why wouldn't they

just Peck you you know save them a lot

of time and effort so that's the first

thing you have to do

now the second thing also extremely

important is even when there aren't jobs

advertised you also have to find people

on LinkedIn hunt them down someone who

has your dream job and also send them a

connection request with a little note

that says hey I love your job I'd love

to learn more about it would you be open

to connecting and having an

informational interview so that I could

learn some

more a lot of people not everyone's

going to take you up on this absolutely

but a lot of people

will give you their time and now you

should never come into these processes

thinking that you're going to get

anything more than an informational

interview but if you're a cool person

you know you work on your communication

skills you show interest in what they're

doing everybody loves to talk about

themselves so if you can get them on a

run and you know take some interest show

that you're genuinely enthusiastic about

what they

do chances are they might offer you an

internal referral now how this works is

most companies have a process where uh

employees can recommend an external

candidate to work at the company and if

that candidate is hired and sticks

around for like 6 months then both of

you get like you know a load of money so

they have an incentive to find good

people and so if you can deliver

yourself on a silver platter through

this informational interview often you

can actually even get a job where there

wasn't one in the first place and this

is the best way to combat even things

like the job market you know if there's

100 applicants going for a job how many

of them are going to be having an inter

informational interview with this one

person it's just going to be you so it

really allows you to separate yourself

from the mean you can you know become an

outlier which is what you want to

be and

that's where the effort needs to go

that's where you have to go the one last

thing that I'll say is that if you

aren't getting the success that you're

looking for once again it's not about

putting out more application you want to

just keep them quick and efficient I

mean obviously it's still a numbers game

do as many as you can but the time

should be spent on the networking and

also the self-improvement if you're not

getting much interest on one of your

projects and you start to realize that

it's actually a bit you know a bit mud

make a new one out with the old and with

the new you know add a new project

that's even better than anything you've

already

done that self-improvement that

self-development you know the

Improvement in your portfolio will get

you a job anyway that's my recom that's

if I wanted to get a job in the current

job market as a self-taught soft devel

software developer that's what I would

do um all the information you need is

linked in the description down below now

it's over to you to go out and do it I

believe in you uh and if you yeah want

to absolutely save some time on the

resume and COV letter sections then

check out h.sh anyway thank you so much

for watching the video if you've enjoyed

smash the like And subscribe buttons and

I'll catch you guys later peace

learning to code if so be sure to check

out the learn to code road map or dive

straight in with these

videos that's a good one