Introduction
Hey reader! My name is Alexander Small and I am excited to share my story with you. I became
a software developer making $60/hr at 18 and I want to help you achieve your dreams too. The
tech industry is constantly growing, even during a job recession, and there is a ton of potential
to succeed. This eBook is for anyone with a slight tech background who wants to learn how to
become a successful software developer. Throughout this eBook, I will share detailed steps for
gaining experience, building your resume, finding the perfect job, ace the interview, and thriving
at work.
Chapter 1: My Story
Let's start with a little about me. I am a sophomore at St. Mary's University studying software
engineering. I started my career as a teammate on a First FTC robotics team in high school and
volunteered at a nonprofit making their website. Then, I was hired by Ignite Local as a
webmaster for $25/hr. After that, I became a software developer for OP Branding where I now
make $60/hr. Along the way, I became certified in Net+ from CompTIA and IT+ from CompTIA.
Certifications have been crucial in my career.
But, here's the thing - I'm a pretty average guy. If I can do it, so can you. So, let's get started.
Chapter 2: How to Gain Experience
2.1 Finding nonprofits to work for
One of the best ways to gain experience is to work for a nonprofit. You can find these
opportunities on websites like VolunteerMatch or Idealist. Nonprofits often need help with
website design and development, so this is a great way to gain experience while giving back to
your community.
2.2 Why nonprofits are a great place to start
Nonprofits are a great place to start because they often have limited budgets and can't afford to
hire experienced developers. This means they are more likely to take a chance on a new
developer with less experience. Plus, you'll be able to build your portfolio with real-world
examples of your work.
2.3 How I did it (Overcomers Case Study)
One nonprofit I worked for is called Overcomers: Daughters of the King of Kings, a cancer
nonprofit. I started as a volunteer and eventually became a board member. I led the
development of a technology strategy to support the organization's goals and operations. This
was a great opportunity for me to gain experience while also making a difference.
2.5 Step-by-step guides for creating impressive personal projects
Another great way to gain experience is to create personal projects. This is a great way to
showcase your skills and build your portfolio. Here are some steps to follow when creating
personal projects:
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Choose a project that interests you and is challenging but doable
Break the project down into smaller tasks
Research the technologies and tools needed to complete the project
Start building!
Continuously test and iterate on your project
Document your progress and showcase your final product in your portfolio
2.6 Resources for finding open-source projects and hackathon opportunities
If you're looking for open-source projects to contribute to or hackathons to participate in, there
are several resources available to you. Here are a few to get you started:
GitHub: GitHub is a code hosting platform that allows developers to collaborate on projects,
share code, and contribute to open-source software. You can search for projects on GitHub that
interest you and contribute to them by submitting pull requests or opening issues.
Hackathon.com: Hackathon.com is a platform that connects developers with hackathon events
all over the world. You can search for events based on your location or interests and participate
in them to gain valuable experience and network with other developers.
2.7 Personal projects
Personal projects are a great way to showcase your skills and creativity to potential employers.
When you work on personal projects, you have the freedom to choose the technologies and
tools you want to use, and you can experiment with new ideas and concepts.
When choosing personal projects to work on, it's important to choose projects that align with
your interests and career goals. For example, if you want to become a full-stack developer, you
might want to work on a project that involves both front-end and back-end development.
Here are a few tips for choosing and working on personal projects:
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Choose projects that challenge you: Personal projects should push you to learn new
skills and technologies. Don't be afraid to choose a project that you don't know how to
complete yet – that's how you'll learn!
Make it relevant to your career goals: Choose projects that showcase your skills in the
areas you want to work in. For example, if you want to become a mobile app developer,
work on a mobile app project.
Make it something you're passionate about: Working on something you're passionate
about will keep you motivated and engaged.
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Document your progress: Keep track of your progress and document it on your portfolio
or GitHub account. This will show potential employers that you're committed to learning
and growing as a developer.
2.8 Certifications
Certifications can be a valuable addition to your resume and demonstrate your expertise in a
particular area. Here are some popular certifications for software developers:
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CompTIA A+: This certification demonstrates competency in basic IT support skills such
as installation, troubleshooting, and networking.
Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer (MCSD): This certification is for developers who
build solutions using Microsoft technologies such as Windows, Azure, and Visual Studio.
Certified Scrum Developer (CSD): This certification demonstrates knowledge and
experience in Agile development practices.
AWS Certified Developer: This certification demonstrates proficiency in developing and
maintaining applications on the Amazon Web Services (AWS) platform.
In the tech industry, certifications demonstrate your commitment to professional development
and can give you a competitive edge in the job market. Some of the most popular certifications
in the industry include CompTIA A+, Network+, and Security+.
When considering which certification to pursue, it's important to do your research and choose
one that aligns with your career goals. You should also consider the time and financial
commitment required to obtain the certification.
2.9 How these opportunities can boost your resume and network
By gaining experience through personal projects, open-source contributions, hackathons, and
certifications, you can significantly boost your resume and expand your professional network.
Having a diverse range of experiences and skills on your resume will make you stand out to
potential employers and increase your chances of getting hired. Additionally, by participating in
hackathons and contributing to open-source projects, you'll have the opportunity to network with
other developers and potentially find mentors who can guide you in your career.
Finally, obtaining certifications can give you a competitive edge in the job market and
demonstrate your commitment to professional development.
Chapter 3: Building Your Resume
Your resume is often the first impression you'll make on potential employers, so it's important to
make sure it stands out. Here are some essential elements of a standout tech resume:
3.1 Examples of well-crafted tech resumes for various roles
If you're struggling to create a standout tech resume, it can be helpful to look at examples of
well-crafted resumes for various roles. On the tech sharks discord server, I offer the template for
the exact resume I used to land 10 interviews and 10 assessments out of 300 applications.
That’s almost a 6% turnover rate, which is insane in the current market conditions. I’m only
offering it to tech shark members, so go check it out if you get the chance.
3.2 Insider tips on common resume mistakes to avoid
There are many common resume mistakes that can hurt your chances of getting hired, such as
typos, grammatical errors, and a lack of specificity. Make sure to proofread your resume
carefully and have others look it over as well. Additionally, avoid using generic job titles and
instead use specific titles that reflect the duties and responsibilities of the role.
3.3 Customizing your resume for each job application
While it may be tempting to use the same resume for every job application, it's important to
customize your resume for each specific job. This can involve tailoring your summary statement
and work experience descriptions to match the job description and highlighting relevant skills
and achievements.
3.4 The importance of showcasing your achievements and experience
When crafting your resume, it's important to not only list your job duties and responsibilities, but
also to highlight your achievements and experiences. This can include projects you've worked
on, awards you've received, and measurable results you've achieved in your previous roles.
Chapter 4: Finding the Perfect Job
Finding the perfect job can be a daunting task, but there are many resources and strategies
available to help you in your search. Here are some tips for finding your dream job:
4.1 Identifying your ideal tech role
Before you start your job search, it's important to have a clear idea of the type of tech role you're
looking for. This can involve identifying your skills, interests, and career goals, as well as
researching different job titles and companies to find the best fit.
4.2 How to search for jobs effectively
When searching for jobs, it's essential to have a strategy. You can't just apply to every job you
come across and hope for the best. Here are some tips on how to search for jobs effectively:
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Use job search engines: Websites like Indeed, Monster, and Glassdoor allow you to
search for jobs based on criteria like location, industry, and job title. These platforms are
a great place to start your job search.
● Network: Make connections with people in the industry you want to work in. Attend
networking events, join online communities, and reach out to people on LinkedIn. You
never know who might have a lead on a job opening.
● Check company websites: If there are specific companies you're interested in working
for, check their websites for job openings. Many companies list job openings on their
websites before posting them on job search engines.
● Customize your resume: Tailor your resume to each job you apply for. Highlight the skills
and experiences that are most relevant to the job you're applying for.
● Apply early: The earlier you apply for a job opening, the better your chances are of
getting it. Don't wait until the deadline to submit your application.
● Follow up: After submitting your application, follow up with the hiring manager or
recruiter. Send a thank-you email or call to express your interest in the position.
4.3 Tips for building a strong online presence on platforms like LinkedIn
Having a strong online presence is essential for job seekers in today's digital age. LinkedIn is
one of the most popular platforms for professionals to showcase their skills and experiences.
Here are some tips for building a strong online presence on LinkedIn:
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Use a professional headshot: Your profile picture should be a professional headshot that
makes a good first impression.
Craft a compelling headline: Your headline should be concise and highlight your skills
and experiences. It's the first thing people see when they visit your profile.
Optimize your profile: Fill out your profile completely and use relevant keywords so that
recruiters can find you.
Highlight your achievements: Don't just list your job duties. Use bullet points to highlight
your accomplishments and the impact you had in your previous roles.
Share content: Share articles, blog posts, and other relevant content to establish
yourself as a thought leader in your industry.
Engage with others: Like, comment, and share other people's posts to build relationships
and show your expertise.
Join groups: Join LinkedIn groups related to your industry to network with other
professionals and stay up-to-date on industry news.
Get endorsements and recommendations: Ask colleagues and managers to endorse
your skills and write recommendations for you. This adds credibility to your profile.
4.4 Insider knowledge on using job boards and networking events effectively
When using job boards, it's important to remember that they should be just one part of your job
search strategy. While job boards can be a great way to find job openings, they can also be
overwhelming and time-consuming. To use job boards effectively, set up alerts for jobs that
match your skills and experience, and apply only to those jobs that are a good fit for you.
Networking events can also be overwhelming, especially if you're not used to networking. To
make the most of your networking events, prepare beforehand by researching the event and the
attendees, bringing plenty of business cards, and practicing your elevator pitch. During the
event, be confident and approachable, and make sure to follow up with any connections you
make afterwards.
Chapter 5: Acing the Interview
Congratulations! You've made it through the first few stages of the job search process and have
landed an interview. Now it's time to prepare yourself to ace the interview.
5.1 Preparing for common tech interview questions
Preparing for a tech interview can be a daunting task, but with the right preparation, you can ace
it. Tech interviews typically have a combination of technical and behavioral questions. Technical
questions are designed to assess your technical skills and knowledge, while behavioral
questions aim to evaluate your personality, problem-solving skills, and team-working abilities.
To prepare for technical questions, you need to review and understand the concepts and
technologies that the company uses. It's important to study the job description and research the
company's website to get an idea of what they do and the technologies they use. This research
will help you tailor your preparation to their specific needs.
There are many resources available online to help you prepare for technical questions, such as
Leetcode, HackerRank, and CodeWars. These websites offer coding challenges and problems
that are similar to those that you might encounter in a tech interview.
5.2 The importance of confidence and communication
Confidence and communication skills are critical in a tech interview. You need to be able to
clearly explain your thought process, even if you don't know the answer to a particular question.
It's important to be open and honest about your limitations, but also to be confident in your
abilities.
Remember to use simple language and avoid technical jargon when explaining concepts. This
will help the interviewer understand your thought process and approach to problem-solving. If
you're unsure about a particular term or concept, it's better to ask for clarification than to guess.
5.3 Strategies for Negotiating Salary and Job Offers
When it comes to job offers and salary negotiations, many candidates are hesitant to ask for
what they want. However, it's important to remember that negotiating a fair salary is a standard
part of the hiring process, and employers expect it.
Here are some tips for negotiating a job offer:
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Research market rates: Before the interview, research the average salary range for the
position you're applying for. This can help you determine a fair salary range to negotiate
for.
Know your worth: Take into account your skills, experience, and qualifications when
considering your salary requirements. Be prepared to explain why you believe you
deserve a higher salary than the initial offer.
Be confident: Approach negotiations with confidence and a positive attitude. Remember,
the employer has already expressed interest in you, so you have some leverage.
Be flexible: While you should have a clear idea of what you want in terms of salary,
benefits, and other perks, be open to negotiation and compromise.
Consider non-salary benefits: In addition to salary, consider other benefits such as
vacation time, flexible work arrangements, or professional development opportunities.
Don't rush: Take the time to carefully consider any job offer and don't feel pressured to
accept an offer right away. Ask for a few days to consider the offer and discuss it with
family or trusted friends.
Get the offer in writing: Once you've negotiated a final offer, make sure to get it in writing.
This will help avoid any confusion or miscommunication down the line.
Remember, negotiating a job offer is a normal part of the hiring process, and being
confident and prepared can help you achieve a fair and satisfying outcome.
Chapter 6: Thriving at Work
Congratulations! You've secured a job in the tech industry and negotiated a fair salary. Now it's
time to thrive in your new role.
Here are some tips for adapting to your new workplace and team, continued learning and skill
development, seeking feedback and growing within your role, managing work-life balance, and
effective communication with managers and colleagues.
6.1 Tips for Continued Learning and Skill Development
The tech industry is constantly evolving, so it's important to stay up-to-date with the latest trends
and technologies. Here are some tips for continued learning and skill development:
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Attend conferences and events: Attending industry conferences and events can provide
valuable networking opportunities and exposure to new technologies and trends.
Take online courses and certifications: Online courses and certifications can help you
stay up-to-date with the latest technologies and trends, and demonstrate your expertise
to potential employers.
Read industry publications: Reading industry publications and blogs can help you stay
informed about the latest trends and technologies.
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Take on new challenges: Seek out new challenges and projects to continue developing
your skills and expertise.
6.2 Tips for managing work-life balance and avoiding burnout
As a software developer, it can be easy to get caught up in your work and neglect other areas of
your life. However, it's important to prioritize your health and well-being to avoid burnout and
maintain a healthy work-life balance. Here are some tips for managing work-life balance:
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Set boundaries: Establish clear boundaries between work and personal time. Avoid
checking work emails or taking work calls outside of working hours.
Take breaks: Take regular breaks throughout the day to stretch, walk around, and clear
your mind. This can help you stay focused and productive.
Practice self-care: Make time for activities that help you relax and recharge, such as
exercise, meditation, or spending time with friends and family.
Prioritize your workload: Focus on the most important tasks first and avoid taking on too
much at once. Learn to say no when you need to.
Disconnect: Take time off work to completely disconnect and recharge. This can be a
vacation or just a day off to relax and do something you enjoy.
Seek support: If you're feeling overwhelmed or burnt out, seek support from your
colleagues or manager. They may be able to help you prioritize your workload or offer
other support.
Be proactive: Don't wait until you're burnt out to take action. Take proactive steps to
manage your workload and prioritize your health and well-being.
Remember, taking care of your health and well-being is important not just for your
personal life but for your career as well. Prioritizing work-life balance can help you be
more productive and successful in the long run.
Chapter 7: Conclusion
Congratulations on making it this far! By reading this e-book, you have taken the first step
towards becoming a successful software developer. Remember that becoming a software
developer is a journey that requires dedication, persistence, and a lot of hard work. But with the
right mindset and resources, you can achieve your goals.
At Tech Sharks, we believe in your potential and we are here to support you every step of the
way. Good luck on your journey!