What do the top devs do that sets them apart?

Summary

In this video, the speaker discusses what sets the top 1% of software engineers apart from the rest. They emphasize that these engineers possess a genuine passion for their craft, constantly experimenting and reflecting on their work to improve. Unlike mediocre developers, top engineers are deeply curious, continuously learning, and engaging in hands-on projects to hone their skills. The speaker compares their dedication to those excelling in other fields, asserting that true mastery comes from a relentless drive to learn and experiment. This deep commitment to their craft is what makes them exceptional.

Takeaways

• 😀 Top software engineers stand out because they have a genuine passion for their craft and are always striving to learn and improve.
• 😀 They are consistent in experimenting and reflecting on their work to deepen their understanding and mastery of software engineering.
• 😀 The best developers can quickly demonstrate their expertise during interviews through deep and thoughtful responses to questions.
• 😀 The level of detail in a software engineer's answers often indicates their seniority and experience, with top engineers providing more in-depth responses.
• 😀 Top engineers don't just work for a paycheck—they are driven by curiosity and a desire to master their field.
• 😀 Passionate developers often engage in side projects, hacking, and tinkering to experiment with new tools and techniques to broaden their skills.
• 😀 The top one percent of developers continuously reflect on the tools and approaches they use, comparing them to find the best solutions for their problems.
• 😀 A key trait of the top developers is their willingness to experiment and explore different solutions to problems, allowing them to build a wide range of experiences.
• 😀 This curiosity and willingness to tinker isn't limited to software engineering—it applies to any field where people excel by genuinely caring about their work.
• 😀 In the software development community, open-source contributors and those who volunteer their time show the same level of dedication and passion as top engineers.
• 😀 Mediocre developers typically treat software engineering as just a job and are less likely to engage in experimentation or reflection to improve their craft.

Q & A

What is the key characteristic that sets top software engineers apart from others?

Top software engineers stand out because they have a genuine interest in their craft and are always experimenting and learning to improve their knowledge and skills.

How can seniority be gauged during the interview process?

You can gauge a candidate's seniority level quickly by engaging them in a conversation. Experienced developers will provide in-depth and thoughtful responses, showing deep understanding and creativity.

What is the difference in response depth between a mediocre and a top software developer when asked about challenges in software development?

A mediocre developer will provide a limited and surface-level response, while a top developer will offer a more detailed, creative, and reflective answer, showcasing their deep understanding of the subject.

What motivates top software engineers to keep learning and improving?

Top software engineers are driven by a deep passion for their work. They don't see software development just as a job but as a craft they continuously experiment with and seek to master.

What role does curiosity play in the development of top engineers?

Curiosity is essential. It drives top engineers to experiment, tinker, and explore new solutions. Their constant curiosity about how things work leads them to continually improve and innovate.

Can mastery in a field be achieved without passion or curiosity?

No, mastery in any field, including software engineering, usually requires a deep passion and curiosity for the subject. Top engineers are continuously experimenting and reflecting on their work, which leads to mastery.

How do top engineers balance their professional work with personal projects?

Top engineers often work on personal side projects where they can experiment with new technologies, explore different approaches, and further their understanding of various tools and methodologies.

What is 'rubber ducking' and why is it valuable for software engineers?

Rubber ducking refers to explaining a problem or idea in detail to someone else, even if they don't provide any feedback. It helps engineers clarify their thoughts, gain new insights, and reinforce their understanding.

How do top engineers develop their problem-solving skills?

Top engineers develop their problem-solving skills by experimenting with different approaches to solving the same problem, reflecting on their methods, and continuously learning from each experience.

Why do some people contribute to open-source projects despite having full-time jobs?

People contribute to open-source projects because they find fulfillment and passion in supporting the community and furthering their understanding of technology. These contributions often come from a place of genuine interest, not just professional obligation.