nitin – Talent500 Blog

How to Become an Efficient Programmer

Posted on June 2, 2021June 2, 2021 by nitin

“Experience built on knowledge increases much quicker and is more valuable”

In a world where technology changes everyday, being a developer comes with fantastic opportunities, you get to work on cutting-edge technologies with top technological companies. But this comes with great challenges as well, given the rate at which technology is growing developers need to constantly up-skill so they don’t get left behind with old programming techniques.
Well, if a programmer repeats the same old (often incorrect) concept over and over, even ten years of experience can’t help them to become a better coder. On the other hand, studying can skyrocket your knowledge and expertise of programming in any language.

We’ll share 5 tips with you to boost your coding skills immediately, afterall knowledge without experience is not very useful – experience without knowledge can easily create a mess.

Think before you code

Writing lines of code shouldn’t take up 100% of your development time, ideally 50-60% of the time could be dedicated to that. Many programmers write faster than they’re capable of thinking. Humans are not well-suited to multitask. Take one step at a time and think before taking it.

Pro Tips:

Keep a piece of paper close to your keyboard, draw graphs, concepts, write pseudo code, images, and tables. Any kind of visualization helps in clearer thinking. If you have a white board, even better!
Put your ideas on paper. Writing code after you know what you want to achieve is far more effective.
Think about testing before you write code. It can be helpful to have a clear idea about how a tester or a product owner would know that the task has been completed.

Dig deeper for more knowledge

Coding in React or VueJs doesn’t require any understanding of IP addresses, routing or DNS systems. But this is where great developers also set themselves apart from average ones in their knowledge of underlying technology, helping them solve more complex problems.

Understand technology as deeply as you can, it’s always an added advantage. Great developers don’t recreate the wheel. Use open-source assets in the wild. Did you know that open-source materials have surged greatly in the past 10 years? Imagine the wealth of information that’s readily available!

Tips:

Learn about computers to their core. Have a look at small processors and how they handle data. What Assembler looks like, and how C or C++ commands can be compiled to Assembler.
If you’re a web developer, a complete understanding of the OSI model is a must.
Cloud technology is a big deal! Azure and AWS are complex tools, but you don’t have to be an expert on these technologies. As a developer, you’ll definitely communicate with a team working on these technologies. It’s always beneficial to be able to understand each other and be aware of what issues might arise.

Combine ideas

Programmers tend to choose one style of writing code, be it OOP, functional programming, or procedural programming, and they want to stick to their style no matter the situation. All programming styles may be useful given a specific scenario.
You may find endless discussions about whether a monolithic app makes for a better concept than microservices. As usual, the world is not black and white, and the typical answer would be “it depends”. There is no reason to avoid a hybrid model.

Don’t repeat yourself (DRY!)

Don’t Repeat Yourself (DRY)! This is an extremely important rule that everyone should remember. Every time you think of going the ‘Ctrl+C and Ctrl+V’ way, stop and rethink – Do I really really need to copy some parts of the code? Can’t it be changed to code reuse?

It can be tricky to follow this rule, and we sometimes overlook this rule and just keep writing lines of code.

Here’s why this rule is of utmost importance – 30 pages of HTML code and each page having its own header, without the inclusion of a header file. Now if the customer wants to change an icon in the header, the programmers would need to update 30 pages. A true nightmare.

Exchange ideas

Teaching creates an opportunity not only to deepen our knowledge but also to articulate it better. Being able to describe what we want to explain in a crystal clear manner is essential for team-leading and communicating with clients. Solve real-world problems on StackOverflow, write articles if you’ve picked up a new skill, share it on Youtube, and help fellow developers to push their limits.

What are your tips for becoming a better programmer? Please share in the comments!

If you are looking for jobs as a developer to unlock your potential and to #BeLimitless, you can boost your job search efforts by signing up on Talent500 – a talent discovery platform that helps you land your dream job in Fortune 500 companies and top global MNCs.

How to draw boundaries at work tactfully and professionally

Posted on December 30, 2020December 30, 2020 by nitin

It’s that time of the year. You have to buy presents, wrap them up, gift it to people, go to that party your friend’s having. Now this is all fun and while you can’t wait to get to it, you also have to meet that work deadline and it sort of throws your personal life off balance. For all the songs about the holidays being such a wonderful time, ironically, it can get stressful; and to top this, Sushil from work decided to cash in his holidays to take the entire month off, and now you’re stuck with more than you can chew on your plate.

Now the four main things that occupy your headspace are Work, Health, Relationship and Hobbies. All these things have to co-exist for things to stay copacetic in your life. Balancing these, especially during the holidays sure is a task but it is not exactly rocket science. All you need to do is follow a few steps to make your holidays a bit more cheerful.

Draw up a schedule

Creating deadlines and schedules don’t exactly go along with the holiday spirit, right? But when you look at the bigger picture, trust us, it works. Setting up a schedule for all the things you have to do does go a long way in helping you navigate the stressful week and hopefully make it a bit less stressful. It’s not natural to time a schedule to meet with your friends, but doing this helps you appreciate the present more. You focus on the task at hand and since you have a clear idea of what to do next, you won’t find yourself worrying about returning to work after your vacation.

Learn to say no

Certain work requires you to be flexible with your schedule and sometimes even break the flow, but you have to learn when to be flexible and when to take a stand and say no. Always, no matter what, put yourself first. It can seem a bit daunting to do this, but learning when to say no and yes can make a lot of difference in how you spend the holidays and how your family spends it.

Know where to draw the line

Talking about multitasking, the idea of creating boundaries seems unproductive, why not send that email, during the family dinner? Two birds one stone! But by doing this you’re not only inviting more work for yourself but you’re also setting yourself up for regret later on when you realise you missed that insanely funny joke your aunt cracked. Avoid bringing your work into your home and vice versa. Try to limit your technology exposure during personal time. Let your team or boss know that you have a family and make sure they respect those boundaries.

Work double hard

There’s no way around it, but you have to work. So why not make your work more efficient? Cut out low-value activities, don’t allow yourself to engage in the usual social media breaks and mindless feed scrolling. While this may give you immediate satisfaction, you could instead focus and get more work done. This will in turn give you more time to focus on your personal life.

Give yourself a work cushion for when you’re back

Don’t make the mistake of letting deadlines creep up once you’re back from vacation. It’s one thing to get a head start on any work you might otherwise need to do. But, the second part of the equation entails setting team deadlines that are at least a week or more out from your vacation. This ensures that when you come back to the office, you’ll have some cushion to readjust. This is especially crucial if you plan on traveling extensively.

Maybe this is not exactly how you planned your holidays, but at the end of the day, all that matters is you’re happy and trying all these out is the way to go.

If all that fails, you can always say you smell something burning and run to the kitchen. Happy Holidays!

Actively looking for a new job? Make your job applications stand out and get noticed. Sign up with Talent500 and discover premium tech jobs in some of the world’s best companies.

Rejection Anxiety: 6 Ways To Handle Job Rejection

Posted on November 24, 2020 by nitin

Going through a job selection process is an uphill battle. From the initial anxiety built up over waiting for a reply, to either being ecstatic or dejected depending on your results – it’s no less than a roller coaster ride of emotions. Quite often job rejections tend to have a negative impact on us and we start doubting our capabilities and whether we should even continue applying. But it essential to bear in mind that we win some battles and lose some. Rejection is not a failure, but rather a redirection and that you will ultimately reach your destination.

Rejection could happen for several reasons, but one thing is for sure- rejection is painful! But guess what! Every rejection has a lesson to teach, you become a stronger and smarter person, now equipped with tools and wisdom to handle situations better.

So, how to cope with rejection? Read on to know about a few ways you can get through this.

1. Embrace the Rejection

The first step here is to come to terms that yes, you have been rejected. This is especially tough when it is a job that you were hoping for and you wanted. Embrace your feelings about getting rejected and give yourself time to come back into a better mindset to deal with what comes next. Usually, around this period, people start over-analyzing mundane things that might have resulted in them getting rejected and eventually leads to insecurities and doubt. Thus it’s recommended to first accept your rejection since this is the only way to move forward.

2. Move On

Probably one of the most important steps here is to get over the rejection. No matter what the result, you should realise that whatever happened was not personal. You shouldn’t bear anger towards the hiring manager since competition is fierce out there. If you still feel down about it, go talk it out with someone close to you. Sometimes you want to lash out, but make sure who you’re doing it against, since you always want to keep options open and not burn the bridges. Don’t look at it as the employer rejecting you, but just hiring someone who suited their role better.

3. Ask for Feedback

Now is the time to look at your performance, analyse it and figure out where you went wrong and what you could’ve done differently. Most people over-analyze mundane stuff, which they feel resulted in them getting rejected. Not only is this pointless but the majority of the employers wouldn’t mind giving feedback and constructive criticism so be sure to ask for it. Take another look at your job application and maybe try to improve it to present yourself in a better way. Try improving the skills and develop new skills that’ll give you an edge over the others.

4. Don’t Stop Your Job Search

Rejection is bound to put a halt to your job search, but make sure you don’t lose the momentum you have built up. Keep applying for other jobs, the options are endless. This will not only build your network but also open up new opportunities. Look for different platforms where you can apply and maybe you’ll find a job that suits you and is better than the one you got rejected from. It might seem tempting to stop a job search as soon as you land an interview, but the key is to never settle until you have got an actual letter stating your employment. This helps you easily move on and not worry about getting rejected as you will always have something to look forward to.

5. Refine Your Job Search

Rejection is not always a bad thing as sometimes it might help you realise what kind of job you are suited to. Using this knowledge filter out your job search. This will prevent any unnecessary applications and rejections. Usually, with rejections, it becomes clear if you’re suited for a job or is it not under your skillset. Consider the role you’re applying for and whether you can see yourself doing that every day. During the initial stages of applying for jobs, be a little realistic and go for the ones best suited according to your qualifications. With time you will automatically understand if your skills can provide you with more intensive jobs and you can thus aim higher by applying for better and higher-paying jobs.

6. Trust the Process

One thing you have to come in terms with is that finding a job in this economy is bound to be a daunting task. So always be ready to face rejection. Know that you aren’t alone and a lot of people go through it. Talk to people who have been in similar situations. With every rejection you go through, you should try and improve your skill set and have a belief that hard work will pay off and you will eventually land that dream job. Many people do start with a similar enthusiasm but with time it tends to wear out. Know that you could get a job right the next day, or it might take six months, the trick is to keep yourself motivated throughout the entire duration.

Getting a job on the first few tries is often unrealistic as everyone needs time to get the hang of how to handle yourself in an interview. With every rejection, you are presented with an opportunity to change and fine-tune yourself. With every rejection, you become a better person. A golden rule is to also apply at companies you don’t necessarily want to work with. This way you’ll build up enough experience for when you do apply for your dream job you will be better prepared to handle it.

Actively looking for a new job? Make your job applications stand out and get noticed. Sign up with Talent500 and discover premium tech jobs in some of the world’s best companies.

7 Ways To Keep Your Job Hunt A Secret

Posted on October 22, 2020October 22, 2020 by nitin

There comes a time in your career when the company you work for just isn’t fit for you anymore. No matter how good things were in the beginning, something just feels off and you can’t figure out what it is. You don’t feel the same thrill when you wake up in the morning, your willingness to hang around after working hours declines rapidly and the mere thought of not going to office on a weekend makes you jump with joy. If you like what you’re doing but not where you’re doing, well maybe then it’s time for a change. Looking for a change sometimes is just the best strategic career move, especially if a promotion isn’t around the corner or more importantly because you aren’t enjoying where you work anymore.

Whether you have a disagreement with the management or if you don’t feel like you’re getting the right pay, you would still want to maintain a good reputation wherever you work. The best thing to do is to maintain a good relationship with your peers and managers for the future because you just don’t know when you might need to reach back to these people. Some of these people that you’re working with may have become trusted friends or just respected business people that you know. Why burn a bridge when you don’t have to?

Here are 7 ways to activate your hunter instincts and not blow your cover at your current job while job hunting!

1. Use your personal device for the job hunt

This may seem like basic advice but it is an important one. Only use your phone, tablet or
computer while conducting your job search. If it’s absolutely necessary to conduct any job search-related business while you are at work, use your cell phone and your own data plan rather than the company WiFi. Also don’t forget to use your personal email address for your job hunt. Be as discreet as you can.

2. Change your privacy settings on job search portals

There’s absolutely no doubt a job search portal is an important arsenal in any job search strategy. But how do you stop this coming to the attention of your current employer? On the one hand you want your activity to be as visible as possible – after all this is how you get your message out in the market and in front of recruiters who might be interested in talking with you, while on the other you don’t want to alert your current employer about your job search.
You can avoid this awkward situation by following these simple guidelines.

Hide your profile updates
Choose the visibility of your feed post
Hide who you connect with temporarily
Prevent updates when you join a group

3. Use only former employers as references

Most hiring managers are comfortable with being given references from a previous employer. Compile a list of previous employers, supervisors or coworkers and let them know in advance that potential employers could get in touch with them.

4. Schedule strategically

Obviously your boss will notice it if you go to the doctor’s three times a week. You can cut down on the suspicion by scheduling your interview early in the morning, during lunch hours or after office hours. If you can then that will save you from having to come up with excuses every now and then. Resist the urge to immediately accept an invite any recruiter offers you. If they are truly interested, they wouldn’t mind a small wait. If it is an unexpected call, request to reschedule so you can take the call at a time and place that is comfortable for you.

5. Stay off the social media radar

You may have solid privacy settings up for your social media accounts, but you never know who could stumble upon your post about snagging an interview at your dream company. If you must share, let your friends and family know through a call about the job possibility, rather than sharing it with everyone online. Additionally, share your resume individually with different companies instead of posting it to an online board. If your current company is hiring, they might come across it.

6. Don’t make it a water-cooler conversation

So here’s a tip: Zip your lip! Gossip travels like wildfire. Be super careful when confiding in your colleague. Not everyone has your best interest in mind. You do not want the news of your departure to reach your supervisor and the team to reach before you have a chance to inform them.

7. Most importantly, continue doing your current job

Just because you are job hunting or interviewing, that doesn’t mean you can work with one foot out the door. Stay focused on your work and work consistent hours. In your interviews, don’t badmouth the company or managers and make sure to socialize with your colleagues as much as you normally would. Remember, you don’t have to leave this job; it is a decision you are making. So you can decide to stay if you realize you are happy.

Want to Accelerate Your Career?

Couple with these tips, you can further improve your chances of landing that dream job by upskilling yourself. Sign up on Talent500 to empower your job search for key roles in Fortune500 companies.

Top 6 JavaScript Books for Beginners & Experts

Posted on October 14, 2020October 14, 2020 by nitin

Inspired by highly interactive websites and wanting to build one on your own? JavaScript is where the magic happens. If you are overwhelmed by JS, remember that we all are on the same boat! JavaScript may be a little daunting for beginners to learn but the key is to take it slow and master the fundamentals rather than going at a fast pace.

Ideally you should learn the underlying technologies first and then move on to the abstractions. Learn the DOM before learning jQuery; learn CSS before picking up SASS, and learn HTML before pursuing JSX.

If you are here, then you’re already looking to learn JavaScript. In this article we put the spotlight on the best books that will take you two steps ahead in mastering JavaScript.

1. A Smarter Way to Learn JavaScript by Mark Myers

Level: Beginner
This book is for beginners as well as experienced developers. You will learn the fundamentals of JavaScript as well as advanced topics such as constructors and prototypes. The book is extremely user friendly, assumes no programming experience and is filled with tons of coding examples to make your journey as smooth as possible.

2. Eloquent JavaScript: A Modern Introduction to Programming

Level: Beginner
The heavy usage of practice exercises makes this book one of the best out there for beginners in Javascript. Eloquent JavaScript lets the reader digest all its knowledge easily thanks to an easy to understand and relatable language. Unlike other books, this book gives the reader an introduction to programming through javascript making it a work of pure art.

3. JavaScript: The good parts by Douglas Crockford

Level: Intermediate
The book is also useful for programmers who are working with JavaScript and now want to become an advanced programmer. In this book, you will find topics related to JavaScript language and tasks common to a wide range of application domains. It also offers several code samples.

4. Effective JavaScript: 68 Specific Ways to Harness the Power of JavaScript by David Herman

Level: Intermediate
After you’ve had a taste of Javascript, this book will take you on a guided tour of the language with solved exercise problems and real world projects to help you master the language. You’ll be introduced to some of the quirks of JavaScript, from floating points to the oddities of type coercions. Regardless of your skill level, the book promises you will learn something new.

5. You Don’t Know JS by Kyle Simpson

Level: Advanced
The book is highly recommended for experienced programmers who want to discover the little nooks and crannies of the language. This book promises to introduce you to some JavaScript species that no human has ever encountered before.

6. Speaking JavaScript: An In-Depth Guide for Programmers

Level: Advanced
This book is for the ones who quickly want to learn JavaScript by looking up specific topics.
The book quickly moves from the basics to more advanced topics. Then it moves on to cover ECMAScript 5 and its syntax, variables and object oriented programming.

The path to become a JavaScript developer can be a daunting one. However, many JavaScript developers will tell you the language is fun and it gets more fun as you get closer to it and begin thinking within the language.

Happy learning!