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Self-taught Developer Networking Tips

a developer standing at the center of a room filled with other professionals, conference setting

Congratulations! You've navigated the choppy waters of self-taught development and have either landed your first job or are on the cusp of breaking into the tech industry. But wait, the journey doesn't stop here. As important as your coding skills are, your professional network can be an equally powerful tool. Networking isn't just about swapping business cards or sending a flurry of LinkedIn requests—it's about building meaningful relationships that can help you and others grow.

Networking might sound daunting, especially if you're new to the industry without a Computer Science degree to vouch for you. But don't worry, this article is tailored specifically for self-taught developers to offer practical advice on networking efficiently in the tech world. Let's dive in!

Why is Networking Important?

  1. Access to Opportunities: Many job openings are never advertised and come from internal referrals. A robust network can help you become aware of such opportunities.
  2. Knowledge Sharing: A well-connected individual can tap into their network for diverse perspectives and problem-solving tactics, something very crucial in the ever-evolving tech landscape.
  3. Career Support: Networking can provide you with a group of mentors, peers, and juniors who can provide emotional support, guidance, and feedback.

Where to Start: Setting Objectives

Before diving into any networking activities, it's beneficial to set some objectives. What are you looking to gain from your networking efforts? Your goals can be:

  • Finding a mentor
  • Job opportunities
  • Freelance projects
  • Collaborations on open-source projects

Once you've set clear objectives, you'll be better equipped to target your networking efforts more efficiently.

Networking Channels for Self-taught Developers

Online Platforms

  1. LinkedIn: Use LinkedIn to connect with people in your industry. But don't just add people; engage with their content, and when appropriate, send them a personalized message outlining why you'd like to connect.
  2. Twitter: A lot of tech discussions happen on Twitter. Follow industry leaders, participate in relevant hashtags, and don’t hesitate to jump into conversations (politely).
  3. GitHub: Contribute to open-source projects related to your field. This will not only improve your coding skills but also get you noticed by others in the community.
  4. Dev Community Websites: Websites like Stack Overflow, Reddit’s r/learnprogramming, and Dev.to offer numerous opportunities to engage with like-minded individuals.

Offline Channels

  1. Meetups and Conferences: Attend local or virtual meetups, hackathons, and conferences. They offer a relaxed environment for informal interactions.
  2. Co-working Spaces: These places are melting pots of talents from different industries. Spending time in such spaces can expand your horizons.
  3. Alumni Networks: If you've taken any bootcamps or online courses, leverage their alumni network.

Through Your Current Job

  1. Company Events: Participate in your company’s social events, hackathons, and other gatherings.
  2. Cross-Team Collaboration: Volunteer for projects that require cross-team interactions. This exposes you to different people and skill sets within the same organization.

Tips for Effective Networking

Start with a Soft Introduction

As a self-taught developer, you might not have the backing of an alma mater, but you have your skills and projects to show for it. Start by softly introducing yourself via social media platforms by showcasing your projects, writing technical blogs, or sharing insightful articles.

Offer Value

Networking is a two-way street. Always think about how you can add value to the other person. It could be as simple as offering a fresh perspective on a problem they are trying to solve or as significant as recommending them for an opportunity you think would be perfect for them.

Follow-up and Maintain the Relationship

After the initial conversation, it’s important to keep the dialogue flowing. Every once in a while, check in to say hello, share an article of interest, or congratulate them on a professional achievement. The idea is to maintain the relationship without overwhelming the other party.

Be Genuine

Networking isn't about immediate gains; it's about building lasting relationships. Be yourself and be genuine in your interactions. People can usually tell if you're only interacting with them because you want something.

Networking Pitfalls to Avoid

  1. Over-Commitment: Don’t offer help or make promises you can’t keep. This will harm your reputation.
  2. Spammy Behavior: Sending generic, impersonal messages is usually considered spam. Always personalize your interactions.
  3. Lack of Follow-through: Failing to follow-up after initial contact can be considered disrespectful and may close doors for future opportunities.

Conclusion

Networking might seem overwhelming, especially if you’re just starting out as a self-taught developer. But remember, everyone starts somewhere. Effective networking is not about how many people you know, but how well you know them. So start small, be consistent, and watch your network grow over time. After all, your network is your net worth in the tech industry. Happy Networking!