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Laura Berman Fortgang is recognised as a pioneer in the personal coaching field and part of the founding team of the International Coach Federation. She has brought coaching to NASA, Florida’s State Government and dozens of Fortune 500 companies.   She has made appearances on Oprah, Good Morning America and CNN, amongst others, as well as publishing five best-selling books including ‘Now What? 90 Days to a New Life Direction’ and ‘The Little Book On Meaning’. And in 2015 she gave a TEDx talk titled ‘How to Find Your Dream Job Without Ever Looking at Your Resume’ which has been viewed more than 1.5 million times.   Laura joins Phil to discuss why the roadmap to your future is never in your current resumè. Laura also talks about why we should trust our instincts when it comes to shaping our IT career.   KEY TAKEAWAYS:   TOP CAREER TIP Don’t look at your resume in order to find the next step in your career if you’re not happy with the role you’re currently performing. It’s only a chronological case study of the road you’ve taken so far, and doesn’t provide insight into where you’re headed.   WORST CAREER MOMENT As a former actor, Laura gave her everything during a performance and was met by a damning response by an audience member. From this she learned to never take rejection personally.   CAREER HIGHLIGHT Meeting Oprah Winfrey was the highlight of Laura’s career and taught her much about confidence and nerves, and how to handle the intimidation that many must have felt in that position.   THE FUTURE OF CAREERS IN I.T Longevity and innovation is abundant. The challenge will be in how the industry scales, and what the next generation of professionals looks like. Seeing how the people in the industry age and grow will be fascinating to watch.   THE REVEAL What first attracted you to a career in I.T.? – What’s the best career advice you received? – Be the best at what you do and be as single-minded as possible. What’s the worst career advice you received? – What would you do if you started your career now? – Laura would worry less and compare herself to others less. What are your current career objectives? – Scaling her business from doing one-on-one training to one-on-many training scenarios. What’s your number one non-technical skill? – Communication skills have been key to helping Laura build her business. How do you keep your own career energized? – Reading and learning are a marvellous way of keeping our skills fresh. What do you do away from technology? – Children taken up much of Laura’s time. Her other passion is crochet.   FINAL CAREER TIP Honour those inklings inside you that tell you something inside of you is trying to evolve. Follow the small voices that try to guide you.   BEST MOMENTS   (10:14) – Laura - “We’re all supposed to be grownups and professionals and know our expertise, but in the end we’re just people” (6:29) – Laura - “If there’s anyone out there thinking that they want to make a change, then your resume isn’t going to have the answer’ (14:40) – Laura – “Be the best at what you do. Be single-minded, and that doesn’t mean to compete with anyone other than yourself” (16:00) – Laura – “If you create extraordinary results, that’s your own marketing. That’s your PR”   ABOUT THE HOST – PHIL BURGESS   Phil Burgess is an independent IT consultant who has spent the last 20 years helping organizations to design, develop, and implement software solutions.  Phil has always had an interest in helping others to develop and advance their careers.  And in 2017 Phil started the I.T. Career Energizer podcast to try to help as many people as possible to learn from the career advice and experiences of those that have been, and still are, on that same career journey.   CONTACT THE HOST – PHIL BURGESS Phil can be contacted through the following Social Media platforms:   Twitter: https://twitter.com/philtechcareer LinkedIn: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/philburgess Facebook: https://facebook.com/philtechcareer Instagram: https://instagram.com/philtechcareer Website: https://itcareerenergizer.com/contact   Phil is also reachable by email at phil@itcareerenergizer.com and via the podcast’s website, https://itcareerenergizer.com Join the I.T. Career Energizer Community on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/groups/ITCareerEnergizer   ABOUT THE GUEST – LAURA BERMAN FORTGANG   Laura Berman Fortgang is recognised as a pioneer in the personal coaching field and part of the founding team of the International Coach Federation. She has brought coaching to NASA, Florida’s State Government and dozens of Fortune 500 companies.   She has made appearances on Oprah, Good Morning America and CNN, amongst others, as well as publishing five best-selling books including ‘Now What? 90 Days to a New Life Direction’ and ‘The Little Book On Meaning’. And in 2015 she gave a TEDx talk titled ‘How to Find Your Dream Job Without Ever Looking at Your Resume’ which has been viewed more than 1.5 million times.   CONTACT THE GUEST – LAURA BERMAN FORTGANG   Laura Berman Fortgang can be contacted through the following Social Media platforms:   Twitter: https://twitter.com/LauraBFortgang/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/pub/laura-berman-fortgang/6/993/b9a Website: https://laurabermanfortgang.com/

Phil’s guest on today’s show is Shawn Livermore, a software engineer, a consultant, a software architect and a tech startup founder, managing to raise venture capital investment six times. He has also authored several books on software and business including the recently released ‘Average Joe: Be the Silicon Valley Tech Genius’. Shawn talks to Phil about why it’s important to choose carefully when applying to companies for work, and how career dreams can become horror stories if you aren’t careful. He also discusses the importance of having a pursuit, one that holds our passion and drives us onward. Full show notes and links to related resources are available on the IT Career Energizer website - https://itcareerenergizer.com/e281

Phil’s guest on today’s show is Raffi Jamgotchian, the founder of Triada Networks. He is a Certified Information Systems Security Professional and a member of both Infragard and the US Secret Service’s Joint Electronic Crimes Task Force.   Raffi talks to Phil about why starting at the bottom is a good thing for anyone new to the world of IT as it provides experience and knowledge.   He also discusses the value of staying curious and why without curiosity, we may sometimes stagnate.   KEY TAKEAWAYS:   TOP CAREER TIP Don’t ever be afraid to do the “unsexy” jobs. Starting in support or the equivalent is always a good place to start as it provides you with a broad range of experience and understanding.   WORST CAREER MOMENT Raffi gave notice at a job as he had received a verbal offer of a new one. However, he failed to get this offer in writing, and subsequently the new job fell through. Luckily it all worked out.   CAREER HIGHLIGHT After 9/11, Raffi oversaw a stringent series of systems and processes designed to withstand future outages. This was put to the test during a blackout, and again later during Hurricane Sandy. Each time, these new systems stood up to the test.   THE FUTURE OF CAREERS IN I.T The tech world today is changing in so many revolutionary ways, and so rapidly. If you are curious, then being in IT is a wonderful world to work in as the possibilities for innovation and creation are endless.   THE REVEAL What first attracted you to a career in I.T.? – Money was the initial hook, but also the freedom that IT allows in shaping one’s destiny and future. What’s the best career advice you received? – Stay curious! What’s the worst career advice you received? – Don’t go into business for yourself. Starting his own business has been one of the most rewarding things in Raffi’s life. What would you do if you started your career now? – Raffi wishes he had spent more time on experimentation rather than going to the book to learn. What are your current career objectives? – Growing the company they have built, and focusing on training and mentoring new members of the team. What’s your number one non-technical skill? – Honesty. People are drawn to this quality, so always tell the truth. How do you keep your own career energized? – Always make sure you’re learning through whatever means possible. What do you do away from technology? – Raffi is a political junkie, as well as a cyclist   FINAL CAREER TIP Stay curious and don’t be afraid to try new things. It separates stagnation from progression.   BEST MOMENTS   (4:00) – Raffi - “Ultimately we’re supporting the business, we’re not in the business of technology, necessarily” (9:19) – Raffi - “You never know what is going to happen. The best you can do is plan” (13:43) – Raffi – “Testing things – ultimately that was where I learned the most, rather than a formal training class” (14:28) – Raffi – “Let the chips fall where they may. Ultimately you will be rewarded because of your believability”   ABOUT THE HOST – PHIL BURGESS   Phil Burgess is an independent IT consultant who has spent the last 20 years helping organizations to design, develop, and implement software solutions.  Phil has always had an interest in helping others to develop and advance their careers.  And in 2017 Phil started the I.T. Career Energizer podcast to try to help as many people as possible to learn from the career advice and experiences of those that have been, and still are, on that same career journey.   CONTACT THE HOST – PHIL BURGESS Phil can be contacted through the following Social Media platforms:   Twitter: https://twitter.com/philtechcareer LinkedIn: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/philburgess Facebook: https://facebook.com/philtechcareer Instagram: https://instagram.com/philtechcareer Website: https://itcareerenergizer.com/contact   Phil is also reachable by email at phil@itcareerenergizer.com and via the podcast’s website, https://itcareerenergizer.com Join the I.T. Career Energizer Community on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/groups/ITCareerEnergizer   ABOUT THE GUEST – RAFFI JAMGOTCHIAN   Raffi Jamgotchian is the founder of Triada Networks. He is a Certified Information Systems Security Professional and a member of both Infragard and the US Secret Service’s Joint Electronic Crimes Task Force.   CONTACT THE GUEST – RAFFI JAMGOTCHIAN   Raffi Jamgotchian can be contacted through the following Social Media platforms:   Twitter: https://twitter.com/triadanet LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/raffijamgotchian/ Website: https://triadanet.com/ Book: https://triadanet.com/cybersecuritybook  

Phil’s guest on today’s show is Nigel Poulton, who does what he loves - playing with tech and teaching Kubernetes all around the world. He has trained well over 1 million people with Docker and Kubernetes.   He is also the author of Docker Deep Dive which was rated by Book Authority as the best ever book on Docker. And his latest book is The Kubernetes Book which is being updated a couple of times a year.   Nigel talks to Phil about why we must always seek to learn new things, and how this can keep us energised. He also discusses why today’s world is a golden age for technology and possibilities, and why we as IT professionals should be very excited.   KEY TAKEAWAYS:   TOP CAREER TIP Don’t ever be afraid to learn new things. Often, people are afraid to put themselves out there in case it’s too difficult, and they fail. Making mistakes is the only route to learning something.   WORST CAREER MOMENT Nigel took a job that was convenient, but not challenging. He soon learned that without the chance to be challenged, and to develop each day, his love for the job rapidly deteriorated.   CAREER HIGHLIGHT Every time Nigel publishes a newly created product, such as a book or piece of video content, it gives a real buzz of excitement. It’s the same feeling when someone reaches out in response to something Nigel has made.   THE FUTURE OF CAREERS IN I.T The tech world today is revolutionising the way we live, and allowing science fiction concepts to become a reality. For someone who grew up thinking these things could never happen, the world of today is an incredible place.   THE REVEAL What first attracted you to a career in I.T.? – Early computers, games, and technology through Nigels’ childhood sparked his imagination, and showed him what might be possible one day. What’s the best career advice you received? – Nigel’s father mistakenly offered some limiting views on where technology could go, but thankfully Nigel foresaw more limitless possibilities. What’s the worst career advice you received? – What would you do if you started your career now? – Learning to code is a fundamental skill of IT, and one that Nigel recommends as a basic building block when it comes to your career. What are your current career objectives? – Nigel wishes to reach people at the beginning of their careers, with the aim of simplifying their journeys. What’s your number one non-technical skill? – Nigel’s accent has helped many people to connect with him, and has also made him stand out, especially in video. How do you keep your own career energized? – By indulging in science fiction and reading, Nigel is able to keep his vision fresh, and look for future possibilities. What do you do away from technology? – Nigel loves spending time with family, cars, and watching television as a way of unwinding.   FINAL CAREER TIP Don’t skip the fundamentals and always look for chances to improve and innovate. We are living in a golden age for technology, and the potential for invention is limitless.   BEST MOMENTS   (4:27) – Nigel - “That’s the way that life should be – when you’re enjoying life so much that time flies” (6;12) – Nigel - “99% of us find learning something new hard. Just don’t be afraid of it” (11:33) – Nigel – “I’m not a “techie”, I’m an artist – I create something that connects with people” (13:06) – Nigel – “The things that I dreamt of are already here, but they’re better than how I imagined them!” (16:42) – Nigel – “The world of technology moves so fast, that I can never sit back comfortably and say “I’ve nailed it””   ABOUT THE HOST – PHIL BURGESS   Phil Burgess is an independent IT consultant who has spent the last 20 years helping organizations to design, develop, and implement software solutions.  Phil has always had an interest in helping others to develop and advance their careers.  And in 2017 Phil started the I.T. Career Energizer podcast to try to help as many people as possible to learn from the career advice and experiences of those that have been, and still are, on that same career journey.   CONTACT THE HOST – PHIL BURGESS Phil can be contacted through the following Social Media platforms:   Twitter: https://twitter.com/philtechcareer LinkedIn: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/philburgess Facebook: https://facebook.com/philtechcareer Instagram: https://instagram.com/philtechcareer Website: https://itcareerenergizer.com/contact   Phil is also reachable by email at phil@itcareerenergizer.com and via the podcast’s website, https://itcareerenergizer.com Join the I.T. Career Energizer Community on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/groups/ITCareerEnergizer   ABOUT THE GUEST – NIGEL POULTON   Nigel Poulton does what he loves - playing with tech and teaching Kubernetes all around the world. He has trained well over 1 million people with Docker and Kubernetes.   He is also the author of Docker Deep Dive which was rated by Book Authority as the best ever book on Docker. And his latest book is The Kubernetes Book which is being updated a couple of times a year.   CONTACT THE GUEST – NIGEL POULTON   Nigel Poulton can be contacted through the following Social Media platforms:   Twitter: https://twitter.com/nigelpoulton LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nigelpoulton/ Website: https://nigelpoulton.com Docker Deep Dive: https://www.amazon.com/Docker-Deep-Dive-Nigel-Poulton-ebook/dp/B01LXWQUFF/ The Kubernetes Book: https://www.amazon.com/Kubernetes-Book-Version-November-2018-ebook/dp/B072TS9ZQZ/  

Phil’s guest on today’s show is Will Johnson, a developer, speaker, blogger and marketer who enjoys helping people reach their goals by using the power of social media. He is currently a Learner Advocate for Egghead.io and Presentation Director for Kansas City Women in Technology. Will discusses the importance of specialising in one specific area rather than diluting our skills by spreading them too thin. Will also talks about why it’s vital to build and nurture good working relationships, and how this can benefit your IT career. Full show notes and links to related resources are available on the IT Career Energizer website - https://itcareerenergizer.com/e278

Phil’s guest on today’s show is Jennifer Byrne, a former Chief Technical Officer for Microsoft US where she worked with companies and organisations across industries and market segments to re-frame their business opportunities in digital terms. She now advises start-ups and mentors young women and leaders on topics related to making the most of today’s fast-changing, tech-infused world. Jennifer joins the show to talk about why we should always recognize the unique value we bring to any given situation. Jennifer also discusses the importance of striking the right balance between learning about technology, and the world itself. Full show notes and links to related resources are available on the IT Career Energizer website - https://itcareerenergizer.com/e277  

Phil’s guest on today’s show is Jason Lengstorf, a principal developer experience engineer at Netlify and host of Learn With Jason, a live-streamed video show where he pair programs to learn something new in 90 minutes. He spends a lot of time telling people that the formula for success and happiness is to lift each other up and share what we learn. Jason joins Phil to talk about the importance of enjoying the work we do, and how this can breed creativity. He also discusses the importance of building up a team in favour of hoarding credit for achievement. Full show notes and links to related resources are available on the IT Career Energizer website - https://itcareerenergizer.com/e276

Phil’s guest on today’s show is Nicole Archambault, a web developer and educational technology entrepreneur. She creates online courses and coaches people who are teaching themselves how to code. She taught herself to program in 2015 using Treehouse, making a career change to an industry that she loves. Nicole talks about the importance of striking out on your own in brave ways and creating communities in IT. Nicole also discusses why it’s so important not to let your lack of educational qualifications stand in the way of your aspirations in IT. Full show notes and links to related resources are available on the IT Career Energizer website - https://itcareerenergizer.com

Phil’s guest on today’s show is Julian Sequeira, a Python coach and co-founder of PyBites, a platform that he and friend Bob Belderbos created to help others to learn Python. Julian currently works for Amazon Web Services where his responsibilities include running the AWS Data Centre Operations Trainee Program Julian joins Phil to discuss the importance of leaving your comfort zone and building your communication skills by involving yourself in as many things as possible without becoming overwhelmed. He also talks about why we should never be intimidated by job titles, and to remember that even those in positions of authority are people, too. Full show notes and links to related resources are available on the IT Career Energizer website - https://itcareerenergizer.com

Phil’s guest on today’s show is Ian Reynolds, a Partner and the Chief Solutions Architect at Zibtek, a software development company focused on helping businesses build custom software.   He has spent the better part of his career in consulting covering a diverse range of industries, including Finance, Oil & Gas and Healthcare. He now helps companies to solve their core business objectives with agile software development.   Ian talks about the importance of reading, and of constantly feeding your knowledge base. He also discusses the value of recognising your individuality, and always pushing yourself to see what you’re capable of.   KEY TAKEAWAYS:   TOP CAREER TIP You have to constantly read. Books should be your perennial companion. Reading leads to success. On average, the wealthiest Americans read 22 books per year.   WORST CAREER MOMENT In an early job, Ian encountered an employee with behavioral issues. Rather than confront the issue, Ian chose to leave the job – decision that has caused him regret ever since.   CAREER HIGHLIGHT The highlight so far has been the acquisition and growth of Zibtek, along with the success achieved and the improvements made along the way. Many more ambitions has since been realized, with many more to come.   THE FUTURE OF CAREERS IN I.T In terms of IT’s life in the world, we really are at the “Stone Age” period. The potential for how IT will change the world is staggering and infinite. To be at this crucial stage in its history is exhilarating.   THE REVEAL What first attracted you to a career in I.T.? – Ian recognized the changing world of IT, rapidly evolving from day to day, and aspired to be a part of its evolution. What’s the best career advice you received? – Don’t be afraid to try new things. What’s the worst career advice you received? – To not stand out. We must always endeavour to be the brightest talent out there. What would you do if you started your career now? – Ian would embark upon business acquisition strategies far earlier. What are your current career objectives? – To expand knowledge on particular subjects, with a current focus upon banking, legal and finance items. What’s your number one non-technical skill? – Enhanced emotional intelligence. It is good to be non-emotional at times, but emotion can also propel us forward when needed. How do you keep your own career energized? – Keeping dialogue channels open with family and friends allows Ian to experience new perspectives. What do you do away from technology? – Aggressively reading!   FINAL CAREER TIP Don’t compare yourself to others. Compare yourself to yourself and push yourself to see what you’re capable of.   BEST MOMENTS   (6:30) – Ian - “You are doing yourself a disservice if you are not constantly learning” (9:20) – Ian - “In business, you’ve got to separate some degree of the emotional from the rational” (9:59) – Ian – “Failure is not failure unless you fail to learn from it” (18:03) – Ian – “Talking with people about what they’re doing and why they’re doing it, has been the most helpful thing in keeping my career energized”   ABOUT THE HOST – PHIL BURGESS   Phil Burgess is an independent IT consultant who has spent the last 20 years helping organizations to design, develop, and implement software solutions.  Phil has always had an interest in helping others to develop and advance their careers.  And in 2017 Phil started the I.T. Career Energizer podcast to try to help as many people as possible to learn from the career advice and experiences of those that have been, and still are, on that same career journey.   CONTACT THE HOST – PHIL BURGESS Phil can be contacted through the following Social Media platforms:   Twitter: https://twitter.com/philtechcareer LinkedIn: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/philburgess Facebook: https://facebook.com/philtechcareer Instagram: https://instagram.com/philtechcareer Website: https://itcareerenergizer.com/contact   Phil is also reachable by email at phil@itcareerenergizer.com and via the podcast’s website, https://itcareerenergizer.com Join the I.T. Career Energizer Community on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/groups/ITCareerEnergizer   ABOUT THE GUEST – IAN REYNOLDS   Ian Reynolds is a Partner and the Chief Solutions Architect at Zibtek, a software development company focused on helping businesses build custom software.   He has spent the better part of his career in consulting covering a diverse range of industries, including Finance, Oil & Gas and Healthcare. He now helps companies to solve their core business objectives with agile software development.   CONTACT THE GUEST – IAN REYNOLDS   Ian Reynolds can be contacted through the following Social Media platforms:   Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/just_solve LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ianjhreynolds/ Website: https://www.zibtek.com/

Phil’s guest on today's show is Jeff Ton, a sought-after speaker, author and thought leader, having led powerful teams and built successful Information Technology departments for over 30 years.  His mission is to change the face of IT. And he says that, “Businesses today are demanding more from their technology and their technology leaders.” As well as being the author of Amplify Your Value (2018) and Amplify Your Job Search (2020), Jeff serves on numerous boards and advisory councils including Forbes Technology Council, Indy CIO Network, and Connected World Magazine Board of Advisors.  Jeff joins the show to discuss the importance of mastering the basic skills that are sometimes forgotten in favour of technical prowess. Jeff also highlights the belief that your passion can benefit your career path if you look for the opportunities to blend the two pursuits. Full show notes and links to related resources are available on the IT Career Energizer website - https://itcareerenergizer.com

Phil’s guest on today's show is Danny Thompson, a Software Developer who has a passion for tech and programming.  He is also Chapter Founder & Leader of GDG Memphis, providing resources for aspiring developers. In this episode Danny joins Phil to talk about why it’s okay to admit when you don’t have the answer, and how it can lead to personal growth. Danny also discusses the importance of self-motivation, and why your career goals can only truly be achieved by never giving up. Full show notes and links to related resources are available on the IT Career Energizer website - https://itcareerenergizer.com

Phil’s guest on today’s show is Sam Lightstone, IBM’s Chief Technology Officer for AI Strategy, an IBM Fellow and a Master Inventor in the IBM Data and AI group. He is also chair of the Data and AI Technical Team, the working group of IBM’s technical executives in the division. In this episode Sam joins Phil to discuss the power of innovation, and why we must always seek to first convince people that we have good ideas by allowing them to visualise, and innovate through creative thinking. Sam also talks about the importance of being clear when it comes to your career goals in IT, and why without a clear goal to aim for, we can never truly hope to arrive at our ideal destination Full show notes and links to related resources are available on the IT Career Energizer website - https://itcareerenergizer.com

Phil’s guest on today’s show is Douglas Ferguson, an entrepreneur and technologist with over 20 years of experience.  He is a master facilitator and the author of three innovation books: Beyond the Prototype, How to Remix Anything, and Start Within.   He is also the founder and president of Voltage Control, a facilitation agency helping teams to work better together.   Douglas discusses the importance of finding new perspectives by looking outside of our own industry, and how this can lead to innovative thinking. He also talks about the importance of facilitation, and how it will shape the future of an ever-more automated working landscape.   KEY TAKEAWAYS:   TOP CAREER TIP We must look outside of our own industries. By opening ourselves to new ways of working, of new experiences, we allow ourselves to find new perspectives and new ways of thinking.   WORST CAREER MOMENT Whenever emotions get the best of Douglas, it can get the better of him. Being dressed down in public can give rise to negative emotional impact. By tempering our response, we can turn these situations into empowering ones.   CAREER HIGHLIGHT Building a sophisticated metric system that had to scale rapidly to keep up with the growth of its client base. Douglas recognized the need to balance the technical concerns and the elegance of the system itself in order to accomplish something entirely new.   THE FUTURE OF CAREERS IN I.T The effects of COVID-19 upon the world have caused the world itself to take far more notice of technological advancements, and how technology itself is a benefit to humanity. Innovations are coming swiftly every day, and are changing the landscape of how we interact.   THE REVEAL What first attracted you to a career in I.T.? – Being brought up on a farm , Douglas was instilled with a sense of enhancement through ingenuity. When he was introduced to computers, he applied this sensibility, and a career was born. What’s the best career advice you received? – Networking is key to adaptability, and understanding complexity. The modern world is built upon communication and we must embrace it in order to thrive. What’s the worst career advice you received? – To severely punish those who make mistakes. By allowing emotions to overtake a situation, we can often miss out on chances to develop those in our teams, and strengthen our organisations. What would you do if you started your career now? – Douglas would embrace AI machine learning a lot sooner. It is a transformational technology that will lead to lasting change. What are your current career objectives? – After spending much time in pivoting his organization, Douglas now has the opportunity to look for areas that require creative thinking and innovation, while delivering the levels of excellence that his team is known for. What’s your number one non-technical skill? – The ability to synthesise quickly and on the fly, as well as the speed with which information is processed. How do you keep your own career energized? – Staying abreast of new developments and innovations keeps us fresh and keen to take on the challenges of tomorrow. What do you do away from technology? – Boxing and exercise are a wonderful way to expend physical energy, while musical pursuits and meditation keep the mental faculties fresh and creative.   FINAL CAREER TIP Facilitation is the skill that will allow us to step into the future of the workplace. As AI and software becomes better able to take over jobs, we will need to rely on the things that make us more human.   BEST MOMENTS   (2:56) – Douglas- “It’s important when you have groups of people, that we understand how to do the best work we can, so that we get the best outcomes” (14:52) – Douglas - “If there’s anything that you can expect not to change, that is the fact that things will change!” (19:22) – Douglas – “We really need to make sure that we’re building strong relationships so that we can thrive” (29:49) – Douglas - “It’s all about finding inspiration in little pockets and exploring those things” (31:55) – Douglas – “If there’s one skill that’s going to be critical in the future of work, it’s facilitation”   ABOUT THE HOST – PHIL BURGESS   Phil Burgess is an independent IT consultant who has spent the last 20 years helping organizations to design, develop, and implement software solutions.  Phil has always had an interest in helping others to develop and advance their careers.  And in 2017 Phil started the I.T. Career Energizer podcast to try to help as many people as possible to learn from the career advice and experiences of those that have been, and still are, on that same career journey.   CONTACT THE HOST – PHIL BURGESS Phil can be contacted through the following Social Media platforms:   Twitter: https://twitter.com/philtechcareer LinkedIn: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/philburgess Facebook: https://facebook.com/philtechcareer Instagram: https://instagram.com/philtechcareer Website: https://itcareerenergizer.com/contact   Phil is also reachable by email at phil@itcareerenergizer.com and via the podcast’s website, https://itcareerenergizer.com Join the I.T. Career Energizer Community on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/groups/ITCareerEnergizer   ABOUT THE GUEST – DOUGLAS FERGUSON   Douglas Ferguson is an entrepreneur and technologist with over 20 years of experience.  He is a master facilitator and the author of three innovation books: Beyond the Prototype, How to Remix Anything, and Start Within.   He is also the founder and president of Voltage Control, a facilitation agency helping teams to work better together.   CONTACT THE GUEST – DOUGLAS FERGUSON   Douglas Ferguson can be contacted through the following Social Media platforms:   Twitter: https://twitter.com//douglas_voltage LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/douglasferguson Website: https://voltagecontrol.com/  

Phil’s guest on today’s show is Raj Subrameyer, an international speaker, writer and tech coach who helps people step into the leadership role of their dreams through his services and speeches.  He is helping countless people to discover their ‘Zone of Genius’ and leverage it to live the life that they love. In this episode Phil and Raj discuss the importance of establishing your own brand, and how an effective network can help to energise our career path. Raj also talks about the importance of deciding on the course of your own journey, and why it’s never too late to make a change. Full show notes and links to related resources are available on the IT Career Energizer website - https://itcareerenergizer.com

Phil’s guest on the show this time is Doug Arcuri, a Software Engineering Manager for IBM who has worked in the IT industry for 15 years.  His interest in computers began when his parents purchased a Gateway PC in 1998 which led to him developing a few successful game modifications for Half Life. Subsequently, Doug went on to learn engineering concepts, C++, website design and game modification tooling setting the foundation for his IT career.   Doug and Phil talk about the importance of building effective business relationships over being entirely purpose-driven, and why people should be the foundations of any career.   Doug also talks about why feedback should always be welcomed as a way of helping us grow and develop, instead of being seen as criticism.   KEY TAKEAWAYS:   TOP CAREER TIP Don’t be entirely purpose-driven. It’s important to focus on the business and upon delivery, but we must also pay consideration to building effective, empowering relationships.   WORST CAREER MOMENT After finding himself out of a job, Doug decided to not only hone his interviewing skills for the next opportunity, but to keep it going as a regular concern, meeting often ever since to further practice and develop the skills needed in order to keep sharp.   CAREER HIGHLIGHT As a leader, Doug has been responsible for not only hiring, but developing his team members. Using his three stage method of making sure the direction of the team is correct, mentoring others in the team and setting boundaries, and some project management, Doug has found great success is developing people.   THE FUTURE OF CAREERS IN I.T Doug is particularly excited by The Developer’s Experience concept, which has many facets, and which shows that tools are opportunities for engineers to develop. Semantic Code Analysis, also, uses AI to gain clear feedback for code reviews, which should provide a new sense of expediency.   THE REVEAL What first attracted you to a career in I.T.? – Doug grew up with video games, and found that he had an early knack for tweaking the experience through technical means. When he discovered a far more technical route to the same in later life, the career choice became obvious. What’s the best career advice you received? – To write for the community at large. Writing helps to clarify thought, and to inspire others. What’s the worst career advice you received? – To make things up. Working “off message” only leads to confusion and dissatisfaction. What would you do if you started your career now? – Doug would have nurtured the skill of building relationships with others, and sought more opportunities for collaboration. What are your current career objectives? – To become better as a software engineer manager, focusing heavily on the meta of the role. What’s your number one non-technical skill? – To find the humour in conversations with software engineers. How do you keep your own career energized? – Focussing on hobbies, such as scale-modelling, helps to keep the mind sharp. It also teaches the value of success and failure. What do you do away from technology? – Spending time with family, especially in the recent lockdown period, is a great source of comfort and happiness.   FINAL CAREER TIP When you receive feedback, you should view it as a gift and accept it gratefully. We tend to have problems in accepting feedback objectively, but we should endeavor to remember that it can make us better in some way.   BEST MOMENTS   (4:14) – Doug- “For a business to be effective, and for you to be effective wherever you are, you really need to get to know the people first” (6:01) – Doug - “In order to be successful in interviewing, it’s a skill, you have to practice it” (14:23) – Doug - “Clarify your priorities with your partners and product and project management, and make sure that those priorities are clear” (19:50) – Doug - “When we receive feedback it’s a gift, and you should simply say thank you, take it in, and reflect on it”   ABOUT THE HOST – PHIL BURGESS   Phil Burgess is an independent IT consultant who has spent the last 20 years helping organizations to design, develop, and implement software solutions.  Phil has always had an interest in helping others to develop and advance their careers.  And in 2017 Phil started the I.T. Career Energizer podcast to try to help as many people as possible to learn from the career advice and experiences of those that have been, and still are, on that same career journey.   CONTACT THE HOST – PHIL BURGESS Phil can be contacted through the following Social Media platforms:   Twitter: https://twitter.com/philtechcareer LinkedIn: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/philburgess Facebook: https://facebook.com/philtechcareer Instagram: https://instagram.com/philtechcareer Website: https://itcareerenergizer.com/contact   Phil is also reachable by email at phil@itcareerenergizer.com and via the podcast’s website, https://itcareerenergizer.com Join the I.T. Career Energizer Community on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/groups/ITCareerEnergizer   ABOUT THE GUEST – DOUG ARCURI   Doug Arcuri is a Software Engineering Manager for IBM who has worked in the IT industry for 15 years.  His interest in computers began when his parents purchased a Gateway PC in 1998 which led to him developing a few successful game modifications for Half Life. Subsequently, Doug went on to learn engineering concepts, C++, website design and game modification tooling setting the foundation for his IT career.   CONTACT THE GUEST – DOUG ARCURI   Doug Arcuri can be contacted through the following Social Media platforms:   Twitter: https://twitter.com/dougarcuri LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/douglaswarcuri/ Website: https://medium.com/@solidi

Phil’s guest on today’s show is Brad Finkeldei, a former IT professional who is now on a mission to help 10,000 people-pleasers become confident, and to do what they love.  He teaches his clients how to find their purpose, and how to powerfully share their stories so that they stand out in the job search process. Brad discusses the importance of listening to the voice inside that guides us from time-to-time, and why we should endeavour to find the confidence to speak out on our own behalf when opportunity knocks.   KEY TAKEAWAYS:   TOP CAREER TIP Always speak up for yourself when you have the chance to. A missed opportunity to share ideas and put yourself out there can haunt you for a long time afterwards. It can also help to identify issues earlier, and prevent unnecessary pain later on.   WORST CAREER MOMENT Brad once turned down a huge opportunity for career development because of a lack of self-belief. Sometimes the opportunities that we are given are as a result of an outside perspective that other have of us.   CAREER HIGHLIGHT After arriving at a new position, Brad discovered that despite a glossy exterior, the back end was archaic, and the turnover of staff was high. Brad could see the trajectory he was about to follow and took the brave step of leaving for a new position.   THE FUTURE OF CAREERS IN I.T Everything in IT is gradually becoming simpler and easier through refined systems and processes, and the advent of new technologies that allow us to achiever far more.   THE REVEAL What first attracted you to a career in I.T.? – From an early age, Brad was enthralled by the creative opportunities that technology provides, and yearned for a career there. What’s the best career advice you received? – To always speak up for yourself. Far too many people never share what it is that they want. What’s the worst career advice you received? – To do a job for the money and nothing else. It’s far better to be happy in what we do, than to be unfulfilled in exchange for money. What would you do if you started your career now? – Brad would stick to his strong points and focus on the areas in which he works better, such as people management. What are your current career objectives? – Speaking up is Brad’s current focus and doing his best to build his own business. There have been confidence issues in the past, but they are gradually being overcome. What’s your number one non-technical skill? – Effective listening and always trying to discern the other person’s experience. To always attempt to understand what someone may be bringing from outside the job. How do you keep your own career energized? – Service is everything. Working with people and focusing on how to make them better provides instant feedback, and boundless inspiration to do better. What do you do away from technology? – Travelling has opened up a new world in terms of perspective and cultural influence.   FINAL CAREER TIP We should always listen to the instinctual voice inside and investigate why it is raising red flags. Sometimes we react to circumstances on a primal level. We should never discount this reaction.   BEST MOMENTS   (1:20) – Brad- “I have a passion for people, and I didn’t realise that when I was in my tech career because I’d been stuck behind the computer for so long” (3:10) – Brad - “Have the guts to speak up and really share what your heart says, that needs to be said in the moment” (7:30) – Brad - “You’ve got this thing on top of you that’s weighing you down, and it’s hard to see and understand, but once you hit it, it feels great and you feel really aligned” (11:58) – Brad - “I believed that I could get a job because I knew I had the skills, and I also knew that this was not for me” (14:48) – Brad - “One of the biggest things in IT right now is not being acknowledged enough. So many systems are behind systems that are behind systems that are behind systems, and you never get the acknowledgement”   ABOUT THE HOST – PHIL BURGESS   Phil Burgess is an independent IT consultant who has spent the last 20 years helping organizations to design, develop, and implement software solutions.  Phil has always had an interest in helping others to develop and advance their careers.  And in 2017 Phil started the I.T. Career Energizer podcast to try to help as many people as possible to learn from the career advice and experiences of those that have been, and still are, on that same career journey.   CONTACT THE HOST – PHIL BURGESS Phil can be contacted through the following Social Media platforms:   Twitter: https://twitter.com/philtechcareer LinkedIn: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/philburgess Facebook: https://facebook.com/philtechcareer Instagram: https://instagram.com/philtechcareer Website: https://itcareerenergizer.com/contact   Phil is also reachable by email at phil@itcareerenergizer.com and via the podcast’s website, https://itcareerenergizer.com Join the I.T. Career Energizer Community on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/groups/ITCareerEnergizer   ABOUT THE GUEST – BRAD FINKELDEI   My guest on today’s show is Brad Finkeldei, a former IT professional who is now on a mission to help 10,000 people pleasers become confident and to do what they love.  He teaches his clients how to find their purpose and how to powerfully share their stories so that they stand out in the job search process.   CONTACT THE GUEST – BRAD FINKELDEI Brad Finkeldei can be contacted through the following Social Media platforms:   Twitter: https://twitter.com/bradfinkeldei LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bradfinkeldei/ Website: https://bradfinkeldei.com Website: www.dontbeachickendowhatyoulove.com

Phil’s guest on today’s show is Kris Howard, a Solutions Architect Manager at Amazon Web Services in Sydney, Australia.  Her achievements include creating a serverless application that creates an iCal feed for tech events, and the RoaldDahlFans website which has been running since 1996. In this episode Kris shares her thoughts on mentorship, IT as part of a modern society, the importance of engaging with your local tech community and much more. Full show notes and links to related resources are available on the IT Career Energizer website - https://itcareerenergizer.com

Phil’s guest on this episode of the IT Career Energizer podcast is Ramona Shaw, the former VP of a global equity firm, who now leverages her analytical, results-driven approach, personal leadership experiences and extensive research to help companies such as Google, Dropbox and Asana, to achieve success through building relationships and a strong executive presence. Ramona shares her thoughts on successful leadership, remote working and the importance of making those around you feel valued. Full show notes and links to related resources are available on the IT Career Energizer website - https://itcareerenergizer.com

Phil’s guest on this episode of the IT Career Energizer podcast is Boris Paskhaver, author of 'Pandas in Action' and a full-stack web developer who builds apps in React and Ruby on Rails. He is also an Agile consultant and online educator, with six programming course credits on Udemy, encompassing 236,000 students. Boris discusses his insights into ways of dynamically increasing your own creativity, the importance of initiative, and why we must always strive to grow. Full show notes and links to related resources are available on the IT Career Energizer website - https://itcareerenergizer.com