The critical edge you’re missing — soft skills

Why networking is your golden ticket

So, you've seen your buddies snag amazing internships and jobs at top tech companies, right? 

Well, here's the scoop: yes, they're coding wizards or design gurus. But, a lot of times, it's about who they know. That friend-of-a-friend connection or a quick chat at a tech meetup can literally open doors that seemed locked tight.

An ex-Google recruiter spilled the beans once, saying that reaching out with a message on LinkedIn or shooting a personalized email to a hiring manager can make a massive difference. It's something a lot of us forget to do, but it's crucial. You're not spamming every recruiter you find; you're making meaningful connections that can vouch for you when it matters. If you’d like to learn more about networking, check out this blog by Neal, our CEO.

Leadership doesn’t mean you're the boss

Leadership is about stepping up, even if you're not in charge. It's taking initiative, whether that's helping a teammate figure out a bug, leading a project, or just being the person everyone can rely on. In tech, where things move fast and break often, being someone who can guide others through the chaos is invaluable.

I've lived this principle in my daily grind, especially in the chaotic universe of tech startups. Leadership has never been about holding a title. I've rolled up my sleeves when a bug throws our project off track, not waiting for someone else to fix it. I've jumped into lead roles on projects not because I was told to but because I saw the need and had the drive to fill it. 

Being that go-to person, the one my teammates turn to when they're stuck or need advice, that's real leadership. Strive to make those around you better, stepping into the fray, and showing the way forward, not from a place of authority, but from a commitment to your shared goals.

Talk the talk and walk the walk

Communication is key. And no, I'm not just talking about sending memes in Slack to make your co-workers laugh. I mean making sure you can explain your ideas clearly, whether you're talking to your tech lead or a non-techy stakeholder. Speak loudly and clearly. Know your audience. Miscommunications can derail projects fast, so being clear and concise is a must-have.

Communication is also about active listening, empathy, and adapting your message for the listener. When you're in a team meeting or presenting a pitch, it's crucial to read the room. Notice if someone's confused? Don't just plow ahead; pause and ask if there are questions. There is always emotion behind your message and a reaction behind it. Do not ignore that form of appeal and instead embrace it. 

Tailoring your message doesn't mean dumbing it down. It means making it accessible. Remember, the goal is mutual understanding, not broadcasting your thoughts. This skill not only prevents costly misunderstandings but also builds trust within your team, making collaboration smoother and more effective. 

In the fast-paced world of tech, where agility and adaptability are rewarded, being a communicator who can clearly articulate ideas and foster understanding is what makes you stand out as a true professional.

Negotiation is more than just salary talks

Negotiation skills come in handy in so many situations. Yes, it helps you with your salary. 

It also helps in finding the win-win in everyday project decisions. Maybe it's negotiating deadlines, features, or who does what on the team. When you can navigate these conversations smoothly, everyone's happier (and more productive).

I've been in the trenches, figuring out project timelines that seemed impossible at first. It's in these moments that negotiation is important, and all members involved will see your performance during the process. For instance, instead of demanding more work hours from an already stretched team, I've learned to propose alternative solutions. We've swapped out less critical features for ones that deliver more value but require less time. 

This approach not only keeps the team morale high but also ensures we meet our goals without burning out. It's this give-and-take that turns potential conflicts into opportunities for collaboration and innovation.

Get out there and make friends

Networking sounds formal, but it's really just about making friends in the industry. Those connections can lead to opportunities you'd never find on job boards. It's sharing ideas and learning from others, and yes, sometimes it's about finding someone who can introduce you to your next big break. It is completely normal to seek particular relationships that could be beneficial in the long run. Funnily enough, your dating experience can be very useful here. This does not make the relationship transaction unless it isn't evolving into anything more than just the next job opportunity. 

From my desk

As a COO, I've seen how these skills make or break teams and projects. I've watched people with average coding skills outshine the rockstars simply because they could communicate, lead, and network like pros. It's those skills that have helped our team navigate through tough projects, align our goals with stakeholders, and open doors to new opportunities.

So, remember, while your technical skills get you in the game, it's your soft skills that will help you win it. It's those bonuses that get the interviewer excited about you. Networking, leadership, communication, and negotiation are the tools you need to stand out in the tech world. Don't underestimate them; they're your secret sauce to success.