Finding A Mentor - Creating a Solid Foundation
Develpreneur: Become a Better Developer and Entrepreneur
Release Date: 08/05/2021
Develpreneur: Become a Better Developer and Entrepreneur
In a digital landscape brimming with innovation, the allure of diverse technologies often leads to unintended consequences. In our latest podcast episode, hosts Rob Broadhead and Michael Meloche delve deep into the tangled web of technology sprawl. From personal coding repositories to organizational software ecosystems, they illuminate the challenges and opportunities inherent in managing a multitude of solutions. Join us as we unravel the complexities of technology sprawl and explore practical strategies for streamlining solutions and skillsets. Navigating Technology Sprawl ...
info_outline Niche Broad vs. Deep ExpertiseDevelpreneur: Become a Better Developer and Entrepreneur
Welcome to Season 21! We're nearing 800 episodes in. Today, we ask whether you should specialize in one skill or master a broad range of skills in your career and business. Join Rob Broadhead and Michael Meloche as they unpack this nuanced debate. They offer insight on applying this to your niche when building your business and identifying target customers. Niche Broad vs. Deep Expertise Crafting a Compelling Pitch: Solving Customer Problems In this episode, Rob and Michael reflect on their experiences building their respective businesses. They discuss the challenges and rewards of...
info_outline Navigating Data Integration: Scraping Vs. APIsDevelpreneur: Become a Better Developer and Entrepreneur
In the latest Develpreneur Podcast episode, hosts Rob and Michael explore data integration methods. Focus on scraping versus using APIs. They have experience in both realms. Dissect the challenges and advantages of each approach. Offer valuable insights for developers and data enthusiasts. Using Scraping for Data Integration What is scrapping? Scraping involves programmatically extracting data from web pages, mimicking human interaction with the user interface. Today, web scraping involves navigating HTML structures, identifying elements by their IDs, and extracting relevant...
info_outline Deciphering Code Chaos: Strategies for Writing Maintainable CodeDevelpreneur: Become a Better Developer and Entrepreneur
This episode delves into the intricate world of code chaos, coding standards, and best practices, and exploring the importance of writing maintainable code. Hosts Rob and Mike share their insights and experiences, shedding light on the challenges and solutions in the realm of software development. Deciphering Code Chaos What is Code Chaos? Rob and Mike set the stage by discussing the frustration of code chaos. This is where similar code functionality is scattered and duplicated code across projects. They emphasize the significance of architecting solutions rather than hastily...
info_outline Upwork Proposal Strategy: Crafting a Winning ProposalDevelpreneur: Become a Better Developer and Entrepreneur
Welcome back to our ongoing Upwork journey! In this episode, we delve into the specifics of crafting a winning proposal. Whether you're a seasoned freelancer or just starting out, understanding the intricacies of proposal writing is crucial for success on platforms like Upwork. Crafting a Winning Proposal Deciphering the Job Posting As we embark on our proposal-writing journey, let's dissect a typical job posting. Job descriptions may often seem repetitive, emphasizing the need for skilled, passionate individuals. However, hidden within the generic language are clues to what the...
info_outline Upwork Startup Guide: Navigating the Freelance LandscapeDevelpreneur: Become a Better Developer and Entrepreneur
In this podcast episode, we delve into launching a successful freelance career on Upwork. Focusing primarily on getting started, a sort of Upwork startup guide for beginners. This guide draws from our wealth of experience. It provides invaluable insights and practical advice for freelancers aiming to thrive in the competitive online marketplace by sharing our expertise and firsthand knowledge. Upwork Startup Guide We guide listeners through establishing a solid presence on Upwork so they can use it to maximize their earning potential. Exploring Upwork: Navigating the Platform As...
info_outline The Importance of Properly Defining RequirementsDevelpreneur: Become a Better Developer and Entrepreneur
In this podcast transcript, Rob and Michael delve into the pivotal topic of defining requirements in software development. They emphasize the significance of clear and detailed requirements, underscoring the potential pitfalls of vague or incomplete requirements. Throughout the conversation, they provide insights, anecdotes, and practical strategies for navigating the complexities of requirement gathering and management. Let's dive into the key points discussed by Rob and Michael. Defining Requirements The Importance of Clear Communication Rob and Michael stress the importance of...
info_outline Pitching Your Services To Your CustomersDevelpreneur: Become a Better Developer and Entrepreneur
As consultants and service-based business owners, one of the biggest challenges is identifying your ideal customer and effectively pitching your services to them. In this insightful podcast, Rob and Michael dive deep into this topic, sharing their experiences and strategies. Pitching Your Services The Primary Focus: Solve the Customer's Problem The core message that resonates throughout the discussion is the importance of understanding and addressing your customer's specific problems. Instead of leading with the technologies or services you offer, the initial focus should be on the...
info_outline Setting Realistic Expectations In DevelopmentDevelpreneur: Become a Better Developer and Entrepreneur
Welcome back, fellow developers! Whether you're tuning in from your favorite chair or your trusty work desk, we're back to share insights and reflections on the intricate world of software development. In today's episode, we're diving deep into the realm of realistic expectations—how crucial they are when dealing with clients, navigating difficult conversations, and ensuring project clarity. Setting the Stage for Realistic Expectations In today's podcast, we're revisiting a topic mentioned in previous episodes: realistic expectations. From the onset, we're reminded that clear...
info_outline From Side Hustle to SuccessDevelpreneur: Become a Better Developer and Entrepreneur
In this episode of the "Developer Building Better Developers" podcast, our hosts explore the journey "From Side Hustle to Success." They delve into the intricacies of turning a passion project into a sustainable business venture. With decades of experience, the seasoned hosts are no strangers to discussing the challenges and nuances of entrepreneurship. From Side Hustle to Success: Transitioning a Passion into Profit Recognizing the Shift: From Side Hustle to Success The episode picks up the topic from the previous episode, "Bootstrapping Success," by testing niches on a shoestring...
info_outlineThis bonus episode for our Tim Stratton interview digs deeper into finding a mentor. First, we look at what makes a good mentor relationship. This is a situation where all parties need to contribute to the goals and receive benefits. Thus, the focus is on the relationship itself and what to look for when you desire a mentor.
Finding A Mentor Organically
There is an industry out there of people that advertise being a mentor. They even have processes and cookie-cutter approaches in some cases. This may help, but I do not see it as a true mentorship. Finding a mentor is not like finding a plumber. You do want someone you can trust. However, many other factors go into being a true mentor.
Similar Interests Or Goals
The primary objective in finding a match should be similar goals or interests. This is someone you want to emulate. Therefore, they should have a path you can relate to and a destination you also want to reach. Beware of a mentor that has goals or achievements that are only tangential to your path. They can still be useful, but the closer they align with your goals, the better. For example, a player that wants to be a basketball star can benefit in some ways from a hockey star, but not as much as from a basketball star. Know the areas where your mentor is similar and different.
Listen and Then Act
The goal of most mentors is to provide useful knowledge. They want you to act on what you are taught and become better in those skills. That is how they know it is useful. If you never take action, then the utility of the knowledge will never be known. The goal is not to fill your head with trivia. Instead, they want to provide you with stepping stones for your career climb. That means you need to plan actions based on what comes out of mentor sessions. Absorbing is not enough. Take the lessons learned to heart and apply them sooner rather than later before you forget what you were taught.