4 Steps to Becoming a Self-Taught Developer in a Tough Economy

TLDRIn this video, Travis shares four steps to help you become a self-taught developer in a tough economy. These steps include being fully committed to programming, determining the technology to learn, putting in the time and effort to learn the chosen technology, and building a network and showcasing your skills. By following these steps, you can increase your chances of finding success in the tech industry.

Key insights

🔑Commitment and dedication are crucial to becoming a self-taught developer.

💡Research and determine the technology you want to learn and create a plan of action.

🚀Put in the time and effort to master the chosen technology and build projects to showcase your skills.

🤝Network and make connections in the industry to increase your chances of finding job opportunities.

🏆Stand out by going above and beyond, such as building projects for companies even if they didn't ask for it.

Q&A

How do I know if I'm fully committed to becoming a self-taught developer?

Take some time to do research and try out coding to see if you are genuinely interested and passionate about it. If you feel a strong desire to pursue programming as a career and are willing to put in the effort to learn, you are likely fully committed.

How do I determine the technology to learn as a self-taught developer?

Consider your interests and career goals. Research popular languages and advancements in various fields, such as web development, machine learning, or data science. Choose a technology that aligns with your goals and has a high demand in the industry.

How much time should I dedicate to learning as a self-taught developer?

The amount of time will vary depending on your schedule and commitments. It's important to prioritize and create a consistent learning schedule. Even dedicating a few hours each week can make a significant difference over time.

How can I network and build connections in the tech industry?

Attend meetups, industry events, and conferences related to your chosen technology. Engage with professionals on platforms like LinkedIn, join relevant online communities, and contribute to open-source projects. Building a personal brand by creating content and sharing your knowledge can also help you connect with others.

Should I only focus on learning one technology as a self-taught developer?

While it's beneficial to specialize in one technology and become proficient in it, having a broad understanding of different technologies can also be advantageous. Start with one technology and, once you feel comfortable with it, you can explore and learn additional languages or frameworks as needed.

Timestamped Summary

00:00The video showcases the journey of a self-taught developer and provides insights into what it takes to succeed in a tough economy.

01:09Step 1: Be fully committed to becoming a programmer and determine if you have a genuine passion for coding.

03:13Step 2: Research and determine the technology you want to learn, considering your interests and career goals.

05:39Step 3: Put in the time and effort to learn and master the chosen technology, building projects to showcase your skills.

07:40Step 4: Network and make connections in the industry, showcasing your skills and going above and beyond to stand out.