Recognition is nice, but it doesn’t pay the bills. Here’s what I actually look for in a job: fair pay, real promotions, work-life balance, trust, and a team that doesn’t treat fun like a four-letter word.
Impostor syndrome doesn’t vanish—it just shows up in new costumes. Over a decade into tech, I still question myself. But I keep showing up anyway. Because confidence isn't knowing everything—it's knowing you’ll figure it out.
You just became a tech lead, maybe by choice—maybe not. Here's a no-fluff guide for new leaders who still remember what it's like to be in the trenches—and want to lead without turning into “that boss.”
The most important advice for your first dev job? It’s not about the tech. It’s about how you show up, learn fast, and be someone others trust to work with. This post breaks down the non-code lessons that actually matter.
