In this video, I dive deep into why 90% of software developers' side projects don't actually contribute to career growth and how you can turn that around. Whether you're aiming to land your first programming job or looking to showcase your versatility in tech, understanding the full lifecycle of software development is crucial. I'll explain the common pitfalls of typical developerfocused projects and provide a stepbystep guide to make your projects more impactful.

What you'll learn:

The real process of building software, beyond just coding and deploying.
Why most side projects fail to advance your career and how to change that.
Specific steps to transform a project from a developer's toy into a portfolioworthy masterpiece.
10 unique project ideas that target nondevelopers, which could also be great freelancing opportunities.
Whether it's a management system for plumbers or a scheduling tool for charge nurses, these ideas are designed to get you thinking outside the typical developer's box. Tune in to discover how to make your side projects truly count!

Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction
00:54 Types of side projects
03:32 How to code side project
06:30 List of bad ideas
08:58 The one rule for making it good
11:20 Brainstorming good ideas and summary

#SoftwareDevelopment #CareerDevelopment #Programming #TechCareers #SideProjects #Coding #SoftwareEngineering



I've been a software engineer since 2008 and with over a decade of experience, the industry is as crazy and as varied as ever.

I continually get asked for career advice and how to navigate writing code for a living and I wanted to share everything I've learned in hopes that I can help someone who is just starting in software engineering, who has been in it for a while and is too afraid to ask, or the seasoned vet to either agree or argue with me.

The intent of this channel is to have multiple series that include the following topics:
Compensation
Negotiations
Career advice and guidance
Stocks, RSUs, Stock options, and ESPP plans
‍ Engineering interviews

I've done just about everything in software from working for 3 person start ups, 300 person start ups, silicon valley companies, Fortune 500 companies, small teams, big teams, W2 employment and 1099 contracting, full time contracting and moonlight part time work, independent development, launching my own web apps and iphone app.