Sloan the DEV ModeratorYesterday on our podcast, Natalie Davis came on to discuss how to strategize after layoffs with @saronyitbarek!
Natalie Davis is a software engineer by trade and a curious person by nature. After deciding to step away from her extensive retail career, Natalie took the first steps in her tech journey by graduating from an 18-month long bootcamp. Natalie landed her first engineering role with Foxtrot while still in school, but has since held roles with Netlify and Post. Natalie is also currently seeking employment!
If you didn't get a chance to listen already, find that episode below or wherever you get your podcasts:
So, Let's Talk!
Natalie gave us some great pieces of wisdom on her approach to networking, navigating uncertainty, and squashing imposter syndrome.
Here are some key things we learned:
Take your time finding the perfect role for you that helps you feel balanced. Your perfect job should challenge you without stretching your limit.
When you make a consistent practice of networking, you are better able to prepare yourself for the unknown of layoffs and job insecurity. If you wait to network till when you’re looking for a job, you’ve already waited too long.
Networking should not feel transactional! Sometimes it may be worth it to refocus priorities less on building a network and instead on being a part of the community. Being a part of a community means showing up for others, supporting what they are doing, celebrating them, and sharing what you are doing as well!
First jobs can be difficult because they can come with a huge battle against imposter syndrome. It can become a slippery slope of convincing yourself that you are the only one on your team that struggles and that everyone else is so much smarter than you. Remember to keep your head up and know when these thoughts are not serving you. Celebrate your successes and failures and let go of the idea that you need to be perfect to be valuable.
If you listened— what are your tips for navigating layoffs, finding the perfect role, or dealing with imposter syndrome?
Send us your thoughts below and don't forget to give it a listen here or wherever you listen to your podcasts! 💜
