You asked, I answered. In this Q&A episode, I tackle the toughest career questions you submitted: from getting promoted when the process feels political, to negotiating salary, to leading projects as an IC.
In this episode, we cover:
* Holding peers accountable when you're not their manager
* Navigating promotions when the process is political or unclear
* Increasing your salary with strategic job offers
* Building real authority and getting noticed by leadership
* Staying relevant in the age of AI without burning out
This is for software engineers who want practical strategies to level up their careers, increase their earning potential, and make real impact without the fluff.
Join me at React Advanced and Tech Lead Conf in London:
https://ti.to/gitnation/react-advanced-london-2025/discount/CODING20
Timestamps:
00:00:00 - Intro
00:00:19 - Holding Peers Accountable When Managers Won't Help
00:03:58 - The Surprising Truth About Code "Quality"
00:05:43 - Scaling Accountability Across Large Teams
00:07:50 - When Climbing the Career Ladder Feels Political
00:12:37 - How to Stay Relevant in Tech Without Burning Out
00:14:49 - The Key to Learning Without Feeling Overwhelmed
00:15:18 - The Real Difference for Engineers Working Globally
00:17:44 - What to Do When You Get a Better Job Offer
00:20:51 - Finding Motivation Beyond a Higher Salary
00:21:41 - How to Build Real Credibility and Authority
00:25:31 - The Advice I'd Give My Junior Developer Self
00:29:05 - The Art of Effective Delegation
00:31:47 - Why Delegation Is Really an Act of Trust
00:32:21 - Team Player vs. Individual Star: A False Choice?
00:34:43 - The #1 Personal Development Skill for Engineers
00:37:11 - The Hidden Dangers of Relying on AI Tools
00:40:08 - Is Volunteering at Tech Conferences Worth It?
00:42:50 - My Personal Struggle with Embracing Change
00:45:32 - The Career "Regret" I Don't Actually Regret
00:46:45 - How to Stay Productive While Dealing with Grief
00:49:08 - My Process for Finding Great Podcast Guests
00:50:48 - The Secret to Making Guests Feel Comfortable
00:52:06 - How Podcasting Transformed My Communication Skills
00:53:35 - Handling Guarded or Difficult Podcast Guests
00:56:11 - Final Thoughts & How to Support the Channel
Got questions for the next Q&A? Drop them in the comments 👇
#SoftwareEngineering #CareerGrowth #TechLeadership
