ITCareerCoach Training - Coaching » programming for beginners http://www.it-career-coach.net How To Take Your Career To The Next Level Mon, 06 Feb 2012 01:09:27 +0000 en hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.3.1 Can a 55 year old female become a programmer? http://www.it-career-coach.net/2011/08/10/can-a-55-year-old-female-become-a-programmer/ http://www.it-career-coach.net/2011/08/10/can-a-55-year-old-female-become-a-programmer/#comments Wed, 10 Aug 2011 19:56:27 +0000 ana http://www.it-career-coach.net/?p=3236

This question was submitted by Anoush from Glendale, California … Hello, I am a 55 years old female, I have done mainframe programming for more than 25 years before and I was very good in that.

However i have left my job for 10 years now helping my husband in accounting firm.

Do I have a chance to be hired if I learn .NET and create a software?

  1. Do What You Love – Do You Love Computer Programming?

    Your long term success as a computer programmer depends more on how passionate you are about learning programming than it does on your age!

    If you love learning programming languages you will put in the hard work that it takes to be the best programmer you can be.

    This will involve putting in long hours to learn a suite of marketable programming languages and then going the extra mile to build practical applications that showcase your passion.

    If you do not love computer programming, you will not succeed long term because you won’t be able to keep up with the rapid pace of technological change in the industry.

    The real issue here is not your age but whether you have the drive, passion and desire that it takes to be a highly skilled computer programmer.

  2. Become The Best Computer Programmer You Can Be

    Computer Programming is a talent driven industry which means that your chances of getting hired depends more on how skilled you are than it does on anything else.


    If you are a highly skilled, competent, trained or experienced developer and your skills are in marketable, hot, in-demand programming languages like ASP.NET, C# and SQL Server, you will get a good job regardless of any age discrimination in the industry!

  3. Can You Perform? Prove It

    More than anything else, it is your performance that will decide how far you will go in the programming industry.

    Kids barely out of high school are building websites and starting jobs / businesses as web designers despite their age because nobody really cares about age, when you can perform!

    So if the wisdom it is possible for these young kids to succeed at web design, I dare say that older people have at least an equal opportunity for success.

    The real truth of the matter is that age is just a self-limiting barrier, so don’t let the negative, biased behaviors of others dictate what you can or cannot do!

  4. Success Principle – Do Not Worry Or Focus On Things You Can’t Control

    In “The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People”, Stephen Covey mentions that proactive people do not worry or focus on factors or things over which they have little or no control … instead they focus on their “Sphere Of Influence” … those factors or circumstances over which they exercise control!

    So, the deal is “why focus on your age?”, when you can do nothing about it?

    Why not focus on things like your skills, your learning, your attitude over which you have complete control!

  5. Multiple Career Paths For Computer Programmers


    As a computer programmer, you also have the option of starting your own web design or web development business or freelancing for multiple clients.

    This is perhaps one of the best ways to control your destiny or deal with age discrimination concerns once and for all!

    AS a freelance computer programmer, you can work for work online for clients that are located all over the world or network using LinkedIn for potential clients.

    As a freelance computer programmer, your age is even less of an issue because potential clients can try your services with little risk and then hire you on for a longer term commitment, if they find you competent.

Computer programming is a talent driven, performance minded industry where you can succeed at a freelance, contract or full-time software developer job as long as you have a passion or drive for programming.

My final advice: don’t let the negative bias of others decide what you will or will not do with your life.


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This post was submitted by ana.

]]> http://www.it-career-coach.net/2011/08/10/can-a-55-year-old-female-become-a-programmer/feed/ 2 In The Software Developer Industry, Experience Is King! http://www.it-career-coach.net/2011/03/14/are-software-developer-internships-key-to-landing-good-jobs/ http://www.it-career-coach.net/2011/03/14/are-software-developer-internships-key-to-landing-good-jobs/#comments Mon, 14 Mar 2011 21:02:04 +0000 ITCareerCoach http://www.it-career-coach.net/?p=3137

Hands-on Experience Is The Key To Landing Good Jobs!

Hands-on Experience Is The Key To Landing Good Jobs!

Once a computer programmer with marketable programming skills gains handson experience by building real-world, practical applications, he or she is virtually guaranteed not just any type of job … but a portable, marketable, high-paying professional career as a software developer!!

Why? Because in the software development industry, Experience is King!.

Real world, hands on, practical, computer programming experience is valued more than computer programming certifications or even computer science diplomas or college degrees!

With that in mind, a promotion that allows you to enroll in our 2012 Software Developer Internship Program ($1000) + SQL Boot Camp Online Training ($499) + Software Developer Boot Camp Online Training ($1000) for only $1125 Ends Today!

How Do You Get A Software Developer Internship?

This is how you can land yourself a Software Developer Internship opportunity:

  1. Start by learning marketable programming skills:

    Internships opportunities go to those with marketable computer programming skills.

    So, if your programming skills are out of alignment with the business needs of employers, you are out of luck.

    Demonstrate a high level of commitment to your career by learning how to program first before looking for how to get paid.

    Software Developer Internships are hard for those who want to be paid first before they learn how to code, get it?

  2. Next, build practical, real-world software applications:

    Internship opportunities do not go to those who have not first taken the time to learn or master a programming language.

    In other words, internships are for putting the knowledge and skills that you’ve acquired to work and not for learning how to code!

  3. Finally, get yourself a good programming job:

    Software developers who first take the time to learn valuable programming skills and then build a portfolio of web / software applications will get a job because they have fulfilled the major requirements for getting hired!

The demand for skilled computer programmers far outstrips the supply of skilled talent available.

The demand is so high that you are virtually guaranteed a good job when you fulfill the requirements I just mentioned.

A software development internship will help you land a good programming job, keeping in mind a few things:

  1. The purpose of a software development internship is to provide you with guidance, mentoring, coaching or feedback as you build real-world, practical software applications, products or services.

  2. Though software developer internships are helpful for landing good jobs, they are still very competitive or hard to get.


  3. Click here to Read More about the “2012 Software Developer Internship Opportunity”

Announcing the Software Developer Internship Program

With all this in mind, we are announcing our Software Developer Internship program for 2012:

  1. Computer programmers: who want to build hands-on software development experience in marketable computer programming skills.
  2. Web developers: who want to be mentored, coached, guided or advised on how to build practical, real-world software applications.
  3. Information Technology (IT) professionals: who want to build a portfolio of database driven web-based applications from beginning to end..

Enrolling in the software developer internship program means that you work on projects like:

  • Building Database Driven Websites using ASP.NET, C# and SQL Server.
  • Developing font-end, user-driven websites using HTML, CSS, JQuery and Javascript.
  • Hosting websites on .NET Framework (ASP.NET, C#, SQL Server and Windows).

Special Pricing Discount – Enrollment Starts Now!

The Software Developer Internship Program is an exclusive program that is designed for computer programmers who want to develop hands-on experience by building practical, real-world applications.

The special pricing for the Software Developer Internship program is set at $1000 for a limited time!

However, if you signup for the Software Developer Boot Camp before midnight Today (11:59 PM on Friday, February 3, 2012 (CST)) you will get a complimentary one-time, $1375 discount and be enrolled in both the Software Developer Internship program ($1000) and SQL Boot Camp ($499) and Software Developer Boot Camp ($1000).

Click here to enroll for the Software Developer Boot Camp + SQL Boot Camp + Software Developer Internship Program ($1375 discount) by making a $1125, one-time payment … this offers expires on Midnight of Friday, February 3, 2012 (Central Standard Time).


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]]> http://www.it-career-coach.net/2011/03/14/are-software-developer-internships-key-to-landing-good-jobs/feed/ 0 Which Programming Language Is Best To Start With? http://www.it-career-coach.net/2010/12/18/which-programming-language-is-best-to-start-with/ http://www.it-career-coach.net/2010/12/18/which-programming-language-is-best-to-start-with/#comments Sat, 18 Dec 2010 14:44:24 +0000 ITCareerCoach http://www.it-career-coach.net/?p=3039

Are You Chasing Rabbits For A Living?

Are You Chasing Rabbits For A Living?

[Ask IT Career Coach] is a Career Advice Column for Information Technology (IT) professionals looking for answers to their most challenging career situations.

Do not worry about how to get handson experience in a programming language before you actually learn the programming language … that is called putting the cart before the horse.

If you choose to worry about handson experience before learning the programming language, all that you will end up achieving is nothing … those worries, fears or doubts will only delay your progress because they are either imaginary or harmful!

Rather, choose the path of action or get your hands dirty learning the programming languages that I recommend below and opportunities to get more handson experience will present themselves.

So, don’t hesitate or procrastinate … remember, he who hesitates is lost!

Click here to read this article on hesitation or procrastination

Which Programming Language Is Best To Start With?

Here is a question submitted by a reader on getting handson programming experience and the best programming language to start with.

The toughest challenge facing my career right now is boredom and a feeling of restlessness.

I’m about to graduate college with a bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, and I’m itching to start a real career that is more technical than the help desk that I work on.

Therein lies another challenge: I have no experience.

I’m very interested in programming and software development right now, but I don’t know what is hot in the job market in my area right now.

I’ve been searching the IT job sites, and there are positions open for Java, .NET, and Unix developers (each with a minimum five years of experience).

I appreciate your website and the excellent articles!

I now know to self-teach myself programming skills and work on open source projects, freelance and try for some contracting jobs.

Thank you!

Here Is The Answer To This Reader’s Questions

Hi, I am glad that you know how to self-teach yourself programming skills, work on open source projects, freelance and try for some contracting jobs … it seems that you just want to choose the right programming language since you’ve already heard about Java, .NET and Unix.

Choose Web Development Languages:

Don’t waste your time learning programming languages that are not suited for web development. This is because out of all the software development language careers, web developers are the most in-demand!

Choose a Rapid Application Development (RAD) Programming Language:

The best programming languages for your career will be the ones that are the most productive to code with.

Several years ago, software developers were using languages like Clipper, Foxpro, C/C++. That was back in the days when computer programmers were just transitioning from programming for DOS to programming for WINDOWS.

While all that was happening, Microsoft released a programming language known as Visual Basic which revolutionized the programming industry.

Visual Basic was a Rapid Application Development (RAD) Language which contained visual cues for building desktop applications.

For example, it allowed you to drag an icon representing a button onto a screen and then it generated the code for the button for you.

Because it made programming easier, Microsoft’s Visual Basic quickly became one of the most popular and productive languages for building software applications.

For example, using a Visual Basic enabled database software like Microsoft Access, a developer could create a functional application in a fraction of the time it takes a Java or C/C++ developer to code the same application.

Finally, Microsoft changed the game again with the introduction of .NET Framework which incorporates some of the best features of programming with Java, Visual Basic and C/C++!

So, if you want to be successful computer programmer, go with a productive Rapid Application Development (RAD) Language like Microsoft.NET, learn C# and SQL Server … which is the database language that is most compatible with .NET Framework.

Note that you also have to learn a relational database system because both web and windows software developers have to design or develop databases for their software applications … so, learning SQL query writing and database development is required for software developers.

Study Or Handson Experience, Which Comes First?

And don’t be worrying about not having handson programming experience before you get to learn the programming language … that is putting the cart before the horse.

Answer These Questions …

  1. Are you learning the right programming languages?
  2. How productive are the programming languages that you are learning?
  3. Are you worrying about how to get handson experience?

When you start out learning the programming languages that I recommended, opportunities to get your hands dirty will present themselves.

Don’t hesitate or procrastinate … remember, he who hesitates is lost! Click here to read this article on hesitation or procrastination

Another reason why you should stick with my recommendations is that … studying computer programming can quickly become an overwhelming experience because of the myriad of computer programming languages.

So, if you make the mistake of dabbling in different programming languages, you may end up not being skilled in any!

Don’t waste your time chasing rabbits … learning programming languages for which there is little or no market demand.


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]]> http://www.it-career-coach.net/2010/12/18/which-programming-language-is-best-to-start-with/feed/ 16 Career Roadmap For Programmers: Keeping Your Skills Current Or In Demand http://www.it-career-coach.net/2010/06/14/keep-your-skills-current-or-in-demand/ http://www.it-career-coach.net/2010/06/14/keep-your-skills-current-or-in-demand/#comments Tue, 15 Jun 2010 02:24:42 +0000 ITCareerCoach http://www.it-career-coach.net/?p=2932

Keep your Skills Current or In Demand

Keep your Skills Current or In Demand

It is a commonly held belief that once you learn “how to code in one programming language“, you can easily transition your programming skills to another.

Yet many computer programmers never quite make it because they get lost in the transition from one programming language to another.

This is true of computer programmers transitioning away from legacy programming languages like Cobol or relatively more modern programming languages like classic Visual Basic.

When a computer programmer falls behind the technology (programming language) curve, the developer may experience:

  1. Loss of job security
  2. Difficulty in finding new employment
  3. Loss of income

This article focuses on how to keep your programming skills current, relevant or indispensable in a constantly evolving marketplace.

Always Be Learning: Computer Programming Languages

There are several reasons why computer programmers seem to forever be learning new languages. Some of these reasons are:

  1. New Programming Languages:Computer programming languages become obsolete and new ones are introduced to replace them (Fortran has pretty much been replaced by more modern, Object Oriented Programming (OOP) languages).

  2. Updated Programming Language Versions:Programming languages are constantly being updated to newer versions by their vendors (for example, classic Visual Basic has been replaced by Visual Basic .NET).

  3. New Software Application Markets: New software applications markets create a demand for specialized programming skills (IPhone application development needs fueling a demand for Objective C and Cocoa programming languages).

So to be successful, computer programmers have to accept that learning new programming languages comes with the territory or they will fall behind the technology curve.

So, given that the demand for programming skills is constantly evolving from a technology / market standpoint, here is how to make the jump from one programming language to another:

Believe In Yourself: Be Confident In Your Ability To Learn

Believe that if you know how to code in one programming language, you can pick up another one.

Learning a new language may require some time, effort or dedication but you can do it again because you have done it successfully before.

The fear of learning new programming languages seems to be higher with legacy application developers, e.g. cobol or mainframe programmers.

This may be because legacy (cobol, mainframe etc.) programmers have not faced the challenge of updating their skills in a long a while and because of that see learning new, modern object oriented languages like .NET Framework as being more difficult job than they really are!

Career Path for Programmers: Keep Your Skills Marketable

Since the demand for programming skills changes all the time (for example, the shift from desktop to web applications), you have to update your skills or you risk ending up with unmarketable skills or losing your job.

Right now the marketable programming skills include Microsoft .NET Framework (ASP.NET, SQL SERVER and C#), PHP/MYSQL and Cocoa / Objective C (Iphone application development).

So, in terms of a Career Roadmap for computer programmers, you need to have one of these marketable skills.

Learn By Doing: Build Practical Software Applications

Programming skills are not learnt by getting certifications or more educational qualifications. They are gained by building applications outside the classroom.

So, build small applications in the programming languages you are learning … even if you have to build it for yourself!

Don’t get over yourself and end up tackling a project that is so complex that your skills are quickly overwhelmed because that may cause you to lose confidence in your budding programming skills.

The Software Developer Boot Camp builds on this by presenting you with graduated, step by step, beginner to advanced programming lessons. Here is some additional information:

Build New Programming Skills Repetitively

Programming skills have to be exercised repeatedly before they are transferred from the conscious areas of your brain to your optimized, sub-conscious mind.

That is why in the Software Developer Boot Camp, we present you with a number of single or multiple-choice questions that helps you understand, retain or recall the concepts presented in the videos.

Learn Programming In Steps

One of the major challenges facing programmers learning new programming languages is that they often bite of more than they can chew. When this happens, developers will more often than not, pin their wheels or quit the project altogether.

In the Software Developer Boot Camp, we prevent this type of failure by making sure that all the Programming Lessons are graduated and that you don’t learn a more complex topic like Object Oriented Programming (OOP) before learning the building blocks of the topic (like using Methods vs. Procedures).

Follow these tips to make a successful transition from one programming language to another.

The best time to learn a new programming language is now regardless of your situation (with/without a job): because it keeps you employed and marketable.


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]]> http://www.it-career-coach.net/2010/06/14/keep-your-skills-current-or-in-demand/feed/ 2 How To Learn Many Programming Languages http://www.it-career-coach.net/2009/09/10/how-to-learn-many-programming-languages/ http://www.it-career-coach.net/2009/09/10/how-to-learn-many-programming-languages/#comments Thu, 10 Sep 2009 19:20:35 +0000 ITCareerCoach http://www.it-career-coach.net/?p=2397

learning multiple programming languages?

learning multiple programming languages?

This question was posted by a reader who needs advice on “how to learn many programming languages!”.

If you need help with a Question or Challenge, be sure to ask it as a comment on this page and I will answer it fully just as I am answering this reader’s question below!

Please, send this post to your friends using the “Tell a Friend” Button button below. You earn points or cash each time you refer an article to your friends using the Tell a Friend Button.

Here is the Challenging Situation:

I want to learn many programming languages including C/C++, Java, PHP and Microsoft .NET Framework because this will make be very good at programming and employable.

What do you suggest? Are there languages I should learn first or not learn at all?

What’s the best way to go about learning many programming languages?

How To Learn Multiple Programming Languages

There are benefits and challenges to learning many programming languages. Sometimes it’s better to master just one programming language and some other times it’s advantageous to learn more !

Learning many programming languages poses a special challenge. Part of this challenge is remembering the syntax or coding paradigms behind each programming language.

The challenge of devoting the time it takes to learn or master just one programming language should not be under-estimated.

On the other hand, the benefits of successfully learning many programming languages includes having more employment options because you can work on a wide variety of software developemnt platforms.

Here is additional guidance on when you may learn multiple programming languages:

Should Junior / Entry-Level Programmers Learn Multiple Languages?

If you’re just starting your programming career, then I would advise you to focus on learning just one programming language at a time.

This is because there’s little to be gained by listing many programming languages on your resume without really being good or highly skilled in any of them!

As a general rule, it’s far better to learn one programming language and master it well before learning other programming languages.

Beginner, Entry Level, Junior or Hobby Programmers are more likely to fall into the trap of learning on too many programming languages.

They are likely to dabble in multiple programming languages ranging from PHP to C/C++ to Java. Unfortunately, while they may learn a little of each programming languages they are good at none!

The danger facing newbies to computer programming is that they understimate their own powers and the challenges of learning a programming language. So, in a bid to prove themselves, they bite on more than they can chew!

Without a lot of programming experience, newbie computer programmers really have no idea of what they’re trying to accomplish.

In trying to impress others by working on many programming languges, they end up “A Jack of All Trades and Master of None”.

Should I Learn A Software Development Platform?

On the other hand, while beginner programmers should not worry about learning many programming languages, they should learn or master all the programming languages for a platform, one at a time.

For example, if you’re learning PHP, you should also plan to learn MySQL and vice versa.

The reason is because, employers or clients hiring for PHP skills will also expect or need MySQL Database Services.

Another example is that of programmers learning .NET Framework who should plan on learning the entire Microsoft .NET Software Platform including ASP.NET (for building web applications), SQL Server for building Databases and C# or Visual Basic for programming.

Should I Mix and Match Programming Languages?

Programmers should look out and learn other technologies within their familiar programming languages.

For example, both PHP Programmers and ASP.NET Programmers should take the time to learn or master HTML, CSS and JavaScript as these are useful for all programmers.

However, learning PHP and then jumping to Java or C/C++ is a different matter altogether.

Here is “how to to learn many programming languages”:

  1. Learn programming languages one at time.

  2. Master, become highly competent or become an expert at one programming language before attempting to learn another.

  3. Learn all the tools, technologies and programming languages in one family (LAMP, MICROSOFT.NET, JAVA) first before switching tracks.

  4. Employers hire for quality (competency) and not quantity. So, be clear to yourself on why you’re learning many lanaguages!

  5. Learning many programming languages requires dedication and time. So, be sure to plan adequately and budget the right amount of effort or time to your learning. Don’t under-estimate the required effort.

  6. If you’re a skilled developer or a senior programmer or a software architect, there may be some good advantages and fewer risks to you branching out and learning many other languages.

This post is an answer to a “question on how to learn multiple programming languages.
If you have a question, concern or challenge, click here to post it and I will answer it for you!


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]]> http://www.it-career-coach.net/2009/09/10/how-to-learn-many-programming-languages/feed/ 9 How Do I Overcome Employment Gaps In My Oracle Programming Career? http://www.it-career-coach.net/2009/07/13/how-do-i-overcome-employment-gaps-in-my-oracle-programming-career/ http://www.it-career-coach.net/2009/07/13/how-do-i-overcome-employment-gaps-in-my-oracle-programming-career/#comments Tue, 14 Jul 2009 02:18:30 +0000 ITCareerCoach http://www.it-career-coach.net/?p=2022

Ask IT Career Coach

Ask IT Career Coach

This question was posted by a reader who wants to overcome obstacles posed by employment gaps in an Oracle Programming Career!

Please, send this post to your friends using the “Tell a Friend” Button button below. You earn points or cash each time you refer an article to your friends using the Tell a Friend Button.

If you need help with a Question or Challenge, be sure to ask it as a comment on this page and I will answer it fully just as I am answering this reader’s question below!

Here is the Reader’s Question:

Hello,

The toughest challege facing my career right now is, I have been unemployeed for an extended period of time.

I have nine years of Oracle programming experience, but I have been out of work for some years now.

I have been told by employeers that it has been too long since I have had any professional experience.

The job market is very competitive right now.

How do I compete with other programmers who may not have been out of work as long as I have?

I am attending classes so that I am not completely idle. My major is Computer Information Systems. However, I urgently need to work.

Here is my Answer:

Although, the job market is competitive, getting back into full-time employment after a stay at home period is not impossible.

Follow these guidelines to boost your competitiveness compared to that of other computer programmers.

  1. Broaden Your Skills: To stay competitive in the job market, you must broaden your skills because IT Managers are hiring for a broader range of skills!

    Begin by learning those skill that are in high demand and are also a natural complement to your existing skill base.

    For example, SQL Server programming skills are in high-demand and will complement your existing skill sets. By learning SQL Server programming you will be able to target both Oracle Programming Jobs and SQL Server Database Programming Jobs.

  2. Transition To a Software Developer Career: Take advantage of your existing programming strengths by learning a new programming language!

    Draw upon your understanding of Oracle programming to learn a completely new programming tool.

    This will help your career by giving you skills that make you more attractive to employers.

    For example, there are lots of programming jobs that require Microsoft .NET Front-End Programming Skills and Oracle Database or SQL Server Back-End Developer Skills.

    By learning Microsoft.NET you will become competitive in the current job market as you gain the ability to work on the User Interface Front-End or Business Logic Layer or Database Back-End!

  3. Overcome Employment Gaps By Becoming More Marketable: There is nothing that you can do about your employment gaps because it’s already happened and it is going to stay on your resume!

    However there is plenty you can do if you understand the power of having a marketable skill.

    When you hear employers complaining about the gaps in your employment, what they are really saying is that they don’t find your resume or skills compelling enough!

    You can completely by-pass this objection by acquiring the kind of skills that make you a marketable, in-demand IT Professional.

    This is the single, most important thing within your power to do … Learn a new skill or career that makes you instantly attractive, desirable and employable!

How to Overcome Your Employment Gap?

Not too long ago, I was helping someone who hadn’t worked for a number of years. He was in a pretty bad situation because he had a very short employment history and also an employment gap for no good reason.

The way we got around that situation was by getting him to update his skills by learning Microsoft .NET Software Development.

The demand for Microsoft .NET programmers is so high that this guy got hired at his very first interview … despite not having a credible explanation for the gaps on his resume!

I ‘m saying that considering your Nine Years of Oracle programming experience, all you have to do is to make yourself more marketable.

Remember that you already have a far better resume than the individual in question.

So, How Do You Become A Microsoft .NET Software Developer?

  1. You become a Microsoft .NET Software Developer by enrolling at the SOFTWARE DEVELOPERS BOOT CAMP!

    The software developers boot camp is an Online, Video Based, Web Based, Instructor Led, Beginner to Advanced Software Developer Training that incorporates knowledge based training in the form of Video Lessons and Hands-On Skill Building Microsoft.NET Training in the form of Microsoft .NET Projects, Case Studies, Labs, Hands-On Coding Activities and more.

  2. The SOFTWARE DEVELOPERS BOOT CAMP provides you with the skill needed to become a professional software developer or consultant. You learn ASP.NET, C#, Web-Based development in a practical, real-world, hands-on online computer programming course!

  3. Finally, I will also advise you to register for the SQL Boot Camp because SQL Server Database skills are usually required in Microsoft .NET software developer positions. You should register for both the SQL Boot Camp and the Software Developers Boot Camp at the same time to get the best results.

    So, register here for the SQL BOOT CAMP and also register here for the SOFTWARE DEVELOPERS BOOT CAMP!

This post answers a question posted by a reader on “How To Overcome Employment Gaps in Oracle Programming Career! If you have any Question about your career, Post IT as a comment on this page and I will be sure to answer it for you!


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]]> http://www.it-career-coach.net/2009/07/13/how-do-i-overcome-employment-gaps-in-my-oracle-programming-career/feed/ 10 How To Become a Microsoft .NET Software Developer http://www.it-career-coach.net/2009/07/08/how-to-become-a-microsoft-net-software-developer/ http://www.it-career-coach.net/2009/07/08/how-to-become-a-microsoft-net-software-developer/#comments Wed, 08 Jul 2009 19:16:42 +0000 ITCareerCoach http://www.it-career-coach.net/?p=1911

microsoft.net software developer job

microsoft.net software developer job

This question was posted by a reader who wants to become a Microsoft .NET Developer!

If you need help with a Question or Challenge, be sure to ask it as a comment on this page and I will answer it fully just as I am answering this reader’s question below!

Please, send this post to your friends using “This Link”.

By Sharing This Post you are helping your friends receive valuable information or succeed.

Here is the Reader’s Question:

First, a little bit about myself.

I have been in Information Technology for many years and most of my time was spent in software application development.

I can honestly say that I have truly enjoyed a majority of those years and what I have valued most is working with people and solving their problems.

Building relationships is one of my strengths, although that does not seem like a skill, which one can market.

Challenges facing me:

I am an application developer working with COBOL and VMS skills.

I have some experience with .NET but dont really feel well versed in the technology.

I have taken several training programs but all of them left me wanting. Besides being uninspiring, none of them really knew how to impart knowledge so that an individual could become productive in a short period of time.

Your website seems to indicate that you do know how to do that.

I have also begun to wonder if learning JAVA is the better way to go, since to some degree it is more open than Microsofts .NET technology.

How To Become A Microsoft.NET Software Developer

Passion as a Strength: I am glad you are passionate about your information technology career.

Passionate people are more likely to go out of their way to make their career work and the lack of passion is one of the reasons why people get burnt out or stop producing in their careers!

  1. Relationship Building Skills / Strengths: Your relationship building skill is actually a strength that can be marketed. That is one of the things that you learn from SWOT Analysis … “how to take advantage of your strengths by marketing to your opportunities“.

    The reason why it seems that your relationship skills are of little financial value is that you haven’t taken the time to identify or evaluate your opportunities in the light of your strengths.

    If I was to present you with a Cobol / VMS job, you will easily recognize it as an opportunity, because you have trained your mind to look out for or act on Cobol or VMS Job opportunities.

    But if I were to present you an opportunity to profit by exercising your relationship building skills, you may not recognize or act on it because you’ve not trained your mind to do so!

    SWOT Analysis helps you identify your opportunities in the light of your strengths and come up with a plan or strategy for acting on them.

    For example, you may be able to take advantage of or exercise your relationship building skills by referring contacts who need IT Career Advice, IT Coaching or IT Training to our website.

    If you have a really large list of contacts and you are really very skilled at building relationships, you may even go into a part-time or full time IT recruiting career!

    So opportunities to take advantage of your relationship building skills exist, you just have to take the time to properly identify, evaluate and act on them.

  2. How to Get Productive IT Knowledge in a Short Period of Time:

    Yes, you are right in saying that our website’s focus is “impacting productive knowledge in a short period of time“!

    Our definition of productive knowledge is practical, hands-on, job or career focused skills that you can put to work immediately you complete training. This is how our training works:

    • Knowledge + Practice Based Online Training:

      Our online training provides you with a blend of knowledge based training and hands-on skill building, practice based training.

      Knowledge based training is the training gained only from watching videos or instructors in a traditional classroom education or information gained just by just a book.

      Knowledge based training alone does not help because you also need practical job-based skills which are gained by working on real-world problems

      So you learn by doing and not just by watching others!

      You learn by doing or practicing what you’ve learned in a course. Our online training incorporates multiple types of hands-on, practical, real-world training.

      What this means to you as a software developer is that you practice writing actual working Microsoft .NET Code in our Hands-On Labs before you perform the same tasks for an employer.

    • Skill Sharpening Online Training: It is not enough to learn a new programming skill, you also need to sharpen your new programming skill to the point where it becomes productive or highly effective.

      In the real-world, IT Managers assign aggressive deadlines to their software development projects and only those Computer Programmers with sharp programming skills are be able to meet those deadlines.

      So, it is not enough to learn the Microsoft .NET Programming Language (ASP.NET, C#, Visual Basic .NET), you also have to be sharp, effective or productive at writing code especially if you intend to transition from being a hobby programmer to a professional Microsoft .NET Developer!

  3. Demand for Java versus Demand for Microsoft .NET Programming Skills:

    This is a sensitive question because whenever you compare the demand for a career like business analysis to the demand for another career like computer programming, people’s feelings and emotions get involved, hurt or mixed-up!

    So, I want to preface by answer with this statement: Java and Microsoft .NET are both excellent programming languages because they are both object oriented programming (OOP) languages.

    However if you are looking for a stable, full-time, professional software developer career, I will recommend Microsoft .NET over the Java programming language and here are a few reasons why:

    • High Demand for Microsoft .NET Software Developers:

      The demand for Microsoft .NET computer programming skills is high because there are more Microsoft .NET (ASP.NET, C#, VB.NET) software developer job postings than there are competent or skilled Microsoft .NET computer programmers.

      I have also observed that the demand for Microsoft .NET Programmers jumped in the last five years compared to the demand for Java Programming Skills.

      Previous to that, there was a higher demand for Java Programmers because Microsoft.NET was still relatively new in the market.

    • The Marketing of Microsoft.NET Compared to Java Programming Language:

      Another reason why I recommend Microsoft .NET (ASP.NET, VB.NET, C#) over Java is that Microsoft has been successful at marketing the Microsoft .NET development environment to businesses based on their bigger, better marketing team.

      Now, I am not a blind supporter of Microsoft Tools. I also hate those Microsoft products that have been failures.

      For example, I like PHP while I hate Windows Vista with a Passion :-)

      I also don’t use MSN Search and I use Google Search.

      However, Microsoft .NET Developers have more Career or Job options than their Java colleagues because the Microsoft .NET programming languages has also been extended to other platforms including Microsoft SharePoint (Collaboration, Communication), Microsoft Dynamics (Customer Relationship Management ), Microsoft SQL Server (Enterprise Database Computing), Microsoft Office (Outlook, Excel, Word), Microsoft Data Mining, Microsoft Mobile Devices.

    So, by learning Microsoft .NET you hook up your career or job prospects with Microsoft’s product leadership and huge marketing muscle.

    Finally, I recommend Microsoft.NET over Java because it offers you a shorter learning curve and more career prospects or job options.

So, How Do You Become A Microsoft .NET Software Developer?

You become a Microsoft .NET Software Developer by enrolling at the SOFTWARE DEVELOPERS BOOT CAMP!

The software developers boot camp is an Online, Video Based, Web Based, Instructor Led, Beginner to Advanced Software Developer Training that incorporates knowledge based training in the form of Video Lessons and Hands-On Skill Building Microsoft ,NET Training in the form of Microsoft .NET Projects, Case Studies, Labs, Hands-On Coding Activities and more.

The SOFTWARE DEVELOPERS BOOT CAMP provides you with the skill needed to become a professional software developer or consultant.

You learn ASP.NET, C#, Web-Based development in a practical, real-world, hands-on online computer programming course!

Finally, I will also advise you to register for the SQL Boot Camp because SQL skills are usually required in software developer positions.

You should register for both the SQL Boot Camp and the Software Developers Boot Camp at the same time to get the best results.

So, register here for the SQL BOOT CAMP and also register here for the SOFTWARE DEVELOPERS BOOT CAMP!

This post answers a question posted by a reader on “How To Become a Microsoft .NET Software Developer! If you have any Question about your career, Post IT as a comment on this page and I will be sure to answer it for you!


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]]> http://www.it-career-coach.net/2009/07/08/how-to-become-a-microsoft-net-software-developer/feed/ 15 It Is Never Too Late To Become A Computer Programmer! http://www.it-career-coach.net/2009/06/22/it-is-never-too-late-to-become-a-computer-programmer/ http://www.it-career-coach.net/2009/06/22/it-is-never-too-late-to-become-a-computer-programmer/#comments Mon, 22 Jun 2009 09:24:53 +0000 ITCareerCoach http://www.it-career-coach.net/?p=1666

Ask IT Career Coach

Ask IT Career Coach

This question was posted by a reader who wants to become a computer programmer!

If you need help with a Question or Challenge, be sure to ask it as a comment on this page and I will answer it fully just as I am answering this reader’s question below!

Please, send this post to your friends using the “Tell a Friend” Button button below. You earn points or cash each time you refer an article to your friends using the Tell a Friend Button.

Here is the Question:

hi

i am 55 yrs old now, and I am more or less retired since the financial crisis hit us last year.

I used to work in a shipping company, in the operations dept.

I am keen to switch to an IT carer, specializing in programming. What are my chances, to build a career in programming so late.

In my younger days in 1985-1986 I took a course in computer science and programking skills langauge used basic and cobol, but i joined my brother in a shipping and forwarding company and have not done any programming.

Here is my Answer:

Let me answer your question by making a bold statement: “it is never too late to pursue happiness!“

Here in the United States we believe that “All Men … are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights … Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness“.

So, if pursuing a career in computer programming represents happiness for you … then do so regardless of your age!

I have worked with skilled computer programmers older than 55 years … one of them being a contract programmer employed by Robert Half International Inc. in Tulsa, Oklahoma and the other, a contract programmer at a Loyalty Marketing Firm in Saint Louis, Missouri.

The last time I spoke with either of them, they were in-demand, happy and at the top of their game … their age not withstanding!

But I will give you some additional reasons why “it is never too late to become a computer programmer!”

High Demand For Contract Computer Programmers

I will suggest that you become a computer programmer by first going into contract programming because the demand for skilled contract computer programmers far outweighs their supply!

You can independently verify this fact by looking at the number of contract programming gigs posted in Dice.Com.

Skilled Contract Programmers are so much in supply that you can earn six figures with full-medical, 401K and dental benefits within the first year or two … if you are good!

Age Is Not A Barrier To Freelance Computer Programming Career

The demand for skilled programmers also makes it easy and feasible for you to become a freelance computer programmer

As a freelance computer programmer, you are responsible for finding your own clients, paying your own taxes and benefits while keeping the option of working from your home office or personal business site.

Freelance computer programming is all about talent, skill and performance and not about your age, sex, nationality or education. If you know your stuff and you can promote yourself then you are in business.

So, I suggest that you learn computer programming first and using a SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats ) Analysis determine if freelance computer programming is for you.

Age is Not A Barrier To Managing Computer Programmers

If you have learnt computer programming, you may specialize in managing computer programmers or software development projects.

Your age may actually work in your favor if you’ve learnt how to position it as a strength and not a weakness!

You may be hired over younger computer programmers who are sometimes seen as being more arrogant, less likely to stay on a job and less experienced at dealing with people.

One thing you may need to learn is “how to position yourself to employers by emphasizing your strengths!“. So, I would encourage you to spend more time thinking of how your age can be an asset versus how it is a liability!

Sharp Computer Programming Skills In-Demand

The IT Industry values skill-based competency over any other attribute and that goes for computer programming careers too!

If you really want to become a computer programmer, I would advise you to focus all your strength on becoming the best programmer you can be!

While pursuing your programming career, focus on developing a high-level of mastery or competence and get ready to prove it to hiring managers.

If you can prove that you are as good or better than the skill demands for the job, then you will be employed and you will stay employed … it is that simple!

Previous Industry Experience Helps

Here is another reason why your age can be an asset if you learn how to position it correctly using a tool like SWOT Analysis!

You may have an advantage over younger programmers because you have worked in more industries and you are more exposed to how business is done compared to a younger computer programmer who may even be fresh out of college

You should highlight your previous industry experience (you should have a lot by now) and prepare a position statement that points out how your first-hand knowledge of business operations will help a prospective employer!

Given this last example, I hope that I have demonstrated again the value of learning how to position your age as an asset or strength and not as a weakness!

Use Industry Contacts To Your Advantage

Here is another reason why your age can be an asset and not a liability.

Using a SWOT Analysis, you may be able to determine that you have contacts in the industry who can help you get a computer programming job!

This is a reasonable expectation because you probably know more people than a younger computer programmer based on the fact that you’ve worked in more places, been in contact with more people or been around longer :-)

What you need to do, is to learn how to leverage your contacts and existing relationships towards getting a full-time computer programming job, a contract computer programming job or a freelance computer programming job!

How Do You Become A Computer Programmer?

You become a computer programmer by enrolling at the SOFTWARE DEVELOPERS BOOT CAMP!

The software developers boot camp is an Online, Video Based, Web Based, Instructor Led, Beginner to Advanced Software Developer Training

After you complete your computer programmers training you will get assistance towards pursuing a full-time contract programmer career or a freelance computer programmer career depending on what your SWOT Analysis tells us.

Don’t Worry about this because we will assist you at every stage of your new computer programmer career.

Finally, I will also advise you to register for the SQL Boot Camp because SQL skills are usually required in software developer positions. You should register for both the SQL Boot Camp and the Software Developers Boot Camp at the same time to get the best results.

So, register here for the SQL BOOT CAMP and also register here for the SOFTWARE DEVELOPERS BOOT CAMP!

This post answers a question posted by a reader on “how to become a computer programmer! If you have any Question about your career, Post IT as a comment on this page and I will be sure to answer it for you!


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]]> http://www.it-career-coach.net/2009/06/22/it-is-never-too-late-to-become-a-computer-programmer/feed/ 2 About The 2012 Software Developer Internship Opportunity http://www.it-career-coach.net/2009/04/28/the-software-developer-internship-opportunity/ http://www.it-career-coach.net/2009/04/28/the-software-developer-internship-opportunity/#comments Tue, 28 Apr 2009 16:48:32 +0000 ITCareerCoach http://www.it-career-coach.net/?p=1430

The Software Developers Internship Coaching Opportunity

The Software Developers Internship Coaching Opportunity

About The 2012 Software Developer Internship Opportunity!

Computer programming is one of those few careers that offers you the option to either freelance, get a full-time job or become an independent consultant even when you are really just a beginner!

As a freelance software developer, you may live in the United States, India, UK, Canada, New Zealand, South Africa or any country and work for clients located anywhere on the planet!

There are several specializations available to software developers including Mobile Application Development, Desktop Programming and Web Programming.

As a web developer, you can find a lot of work as long as you have a computer, an internet connection and marketable web development skills.

An online employment job report, finds that while the US economy was struggling to add jobs, the online employment market was experiencing a surge in demand for all types of Information Technology professionals … especially computer programmers.

Note that the freelance software developer job market is weighed in favor of computer programmers with either LAMP Programming Skills: PHP, MySQL, WordPress), .NET Framework Programming Skills: ASP.NET, CSharp (C#), Visual Basic .NET (VB.NET), SQL Server Skills or User Interface Programming Skills: HTML, XHTML, CSS, JavaScript, JQuery.

The good news is that you don’t need to learn all these programming skills because a software development project will typically only require one type of skillset, either LAMP (PHP, MYSQL, WordPress) or Microsoft .NET Framework (ASP.NET, CSharp (C#) or VB.NET and SQL Server).

How To Become A Full Time Software Developer

Full-time Software Developers may be either independent software development consultants or permanent, full-time programming employees.

As an independent software development consultant, you are employed and paid by staffing agencies to work for multiple employers, one employer at a time.

As a full time software developer you will work for or be paid directly by an employer and not by a staffing agency.

Note that the corporate, full-time or independent software developer employment market is weighed in favor of computer programmers with web development skills in ASP.NET, SQL Server, C# or VB.NET and .NET Framework.

Independent software developers earn a lot more than full-time computer programmers. Here in the US, that difference can be anywhere from $30,000 to $50,000 or more!

On the other hand, full-time computer programmers have more stability or security in their careers and are also under less pressure to perform or gain cutting-edge computer programming skills.

The primary difference between freelance web developers and full-time (independent consultants or permanent employees) is that while freelance web developers can work from home, their hourly billing rate is lower and also, they have to work much harder at marketing their skills.

The 2012 Software Developer Internship Opportunity

You understand that every career path in Information Technology (IT) requires handson experience?

The main function of the Software Developer Internship Program is to provide you with software development projects where you can gain practical, real-world, cutting-edge programming exposure or hands-on experience in web development … which is where most of the hiring is taking place right now.

The hands-on project experience can then be used as a stepping stone to a freelance web developer job, an independent software consultant job or a permanent programming job depending on your preferences.

However, you will need to learn either WordPress, PHP, MySQL or ASP.NET, C#, SQL Server before you can participate in the The Software Developer Internship Program because you won’t be to perform the assignments handed to you without requisite, prior training … which makes sense right?

With this in mind, you need to enroll in Software Developer Boot Camp before you are allowed to enroll in the Software Developer Internship Program!

Enrolling In The Software Developer Boot Camp

The Software Developer Boot Camp is where you get the complete, beginner to advanced online training needed to learn ASP.NET, C# and SQL Server Web Development.

The Software Developer Internship Program is reserved solely for gaining hands-on, web development experience after which you can then turn into a full-fledged freelance, independent or permanent web developer.

However, in the Software Developer Internship program, we won’t be training or coaching you on software development because we assume that you are already fully trained and ready to code … does that make sense?

The Software Developer Internship Program is designed to be a 12 to 24 weeks online coaching event where you are assigned about one or two major web development projects that utilize marketable, cutting-edge web development skills.

In the Software Developer Boot Camp you are trained using a suite of software developer practice tests or quizzes which improves your retention, comprehension or recall.

These practice tests are designed to help you ace your job interview for full-time employers or freelance consulting clients.

During the Software Developer Boot Camp, you are also given access to our private coaching module and video-based training, so that all the assistance you need is available once you’re enrolled.

Keep in mind, that the software developer boot camp is also designed to take you from beginner or intermediate programming skills to full-fledged software development skills unlike some of the other courses you may be looking at … which are only good for people who want to learn the basics of computer programming and then tutor themselves the rest of the way!

I would also advise you to ignore those distracting, counter-productive arguments over whether VB.NET is better than C# .

See, if you learn C# really well, you can pick up VB.NET by yourself with no more than a month of extra study and just so you know, we are focusing on C# in the Software Developer Boot Camp.

And as you want to hire us as your career coach, please ignore those endless debates oon the marketability of Java, C/C++, Ruby, Python or Cobol programming languages … click here to read my reviews on why some programming languages may be bad for your career.

However, if you already love programming in Java, C/C+, Cobol, Python, Perl, Ruby, learning C#, ASP.NET and Sql Server cannot hurt your career.

On the contrary, it can help you earn more money, make you even more marketable and secure your career in today’s user-interface web-based world … do you get my point :-)

Only One (1) Pre-Requisite for the Software Developer Boot Camp

Note: If you are interested in becoming a software developer, we require that you enroll in both the the SQL Boot Camp and the Software Developer Boot Camp and take both of these online training programs at the same time!

This requirement was instituted because web development jobs also require strong database development and sql query writing skills since most web applications are database driven.

Software Developer Boot Camp Discounts Ends – Friday, February 3, 2012

Currently, we have a promotion for the Software Developer Boot Camp that ends at 11:59 PM on Friday, February 3, 2012 (CST).

This week, we have a promotion that allows you to enroll in the Software Developer Boot Camp for $1125 and receive an enrollment in both the Sql Boot Camp ($499 value) and the Software Developer Internship Program ($1000).

Click Here to Enroll Now in The Software Developer Boot Camp and you will also receive both the Sql Boot Camp Online Training and the Software Developer Internship Coaching Program FREE (a $1375 discount) … this offer is only valid until 11:59 PM on Friday, February 3, 2012 (CST).

Finally, don’t wait until the last minute because if you miss out, you may not see this opportunity again this year!

Thanks and Best Wishes


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]]> http://www.it-career-coach.net/2009/04/28/the-software-developer-internship-opportunity/feed/ 1 Learning C++ Programming Language Is Bad For Your Career … C++ Programmers Can’t Find Jobs http://www.it-career-coach.net/2007/07/25/learning-c-programming-language-is-bad-for-your-career-c-programmers-cant-find-jobs/ http://www.it-career-coach.net/2007/07/25/learning-c-programming-language-is-bad-for-your-career-c-programmers-cant-find-jobs/#comments Thu, 26 Jul 2007 05:41:07 +0000 ITCareerCoach http://www.it-career-coach.net/2007/07/25/learning-c-programming-language-is-bad-for-your-career-c-programmers-cant-find-jobs/

Learning A Marketable Skill?

Learning A Marketable Skill?

Hi,

Do you want to learn the C++ programming language or become a C/C++ computer programmer?

Have you ever asked this question? which programming language is the most complex and challenging?? and received the answer C++?

If you answered yes, you are not alone. About 13 years ago, I asked my mentors in computer programming which programming language is the hardest, toughest, most difficult to learn? and I got the same reply as you… C++.

I asked the question because I wanted to become a successful computer programmer.

So, I reasoned that if I could prove myself by conquering the hardest programming language, my success in computer programming would be guaranteed.

Do You Want To Learn The Hardest Programming Language?

Recently, a number of C/C+ software developers have been turning to me for help with their computer programmer careers.

You can do this by taking advantage of the developer coaching or training sessions available to computer programmers who enroll in the software developers boot camp.

So, what could go wrong with the career of a software developer who has conquered one of the meanest, hardest, most complex computer programming languages?

The real problem with learning C/C++ is not whether it leaves up to its reputation for being a tough guy, because it does!.

The challenge facing those who succeed in learning C/C++ is more subtle.

Continue reading and you will find out for yourself soon.

Is C/C++ Programming Good For Your Career?

A few months ago, I started mentoring a C/C++ computer programmer with real-world programming experience in C/C++, Microsoft Foundation Classes and Windows 32 API and a college degree.

He couldn’t get a computer programmer job, so he signed up for my coaching program to find out why he couldn’t get a job with C/C++ programming skills.

After he explained his situation to me, I presented him with a list of 3 hot programming technologies in high demand.

I told him that these programming languages were so hot that just having them on his resume would land him programming job offers, even though he had been out of work for 2 years!

Well, he acted on the information I gave him, took MASSIVE ACTION and in a FEW MONTHS learnt all he could about the 3 hot programming technologies!

Guess what? a few months after taking advantage of my software developer mentoring, he got the first programming job he interviewed for on the spot, after being out of work for two (2) years!

So, why couldn’t a C/C++ computer programmer with real world industry experience and a college degree get a programming job in the middle of a hi-tech boom?

WHY C++ PROGRAMMERS CAN’T GET JOBS

The simple reason why C++ programmers can’t get a job is that the C++ programming language is not suited for business or web applications development!

But, wait a minute, isn’t C/C++ also one of the fastest programming languages?

Yes C++ is one of the fastest programming languages. But the speed of C++ applies to the speed with which it executes on a computer and not to the speed with which you can code or develop software programs.

STOP! Think about what I just said. Don’t just read it, digest my last statement until you really comprehend it.

C/C++ is the wrong programming language for business or web programming because employers care more about the speed with which you code or develop software and care less about the speed at which your software program executes.

Why Employers Don’t Care About The Execution Speed of C++ Programs?

The reason is that the dramatic increases in computer processing speed and memory has made the personal computer faster and much more powerful.

So, the amount of processing power available on most personal computers makes the execution speed of any programming language sufficient for most business software development projects.

What Do Employers Care About?

Employers really want their software developers to code or write programs faster. And C/C++ fares badly at this, because it’s one of the meanest, hardest, most complex programming languages to either learn or develop real-world business applications with.

The problems of C/C++ does not stop with the difficulty of learning the language. It’s also harder, tougher and slower to develop web or business applications in.

This is the real reason why most employers will not hire C/C++ programmers for business or web application development.

Is C/C+ Dead?

Certainly not. C/C++ is best suited for software projects like writing operating systems, compilers, computer or video games, data mining applications, scientific applications or applications where the execution speed is critical.

Stop for a moment now and answer this question: do you really want to make money from programming computers quickly or easily?

If you answered yes, I recommend you go into an area of computer programming where the demand is hot and where there are lots and lots of jobs.

That area right now is in internet or web application programming which C++ is unfortunately not suited for.

Secondly, if you want to success in web or business applications development, learn a programming language which allows you to quickly create programs that meet business needs.

After 13 years, I realize that employers don’t care about the beauty of the C++ programming language.

Employers care about automating their business processes or making their businesses work better, quicker and faster.

Employers also want to hire programmers whose speed of development matches or outpaces their business operations.

The ugly truth is that C/C++ is not the right tool for achieving either of these results.

Dear friend, enroll in the Software Developers Boot Camp now and learn those programming languages that excel at creating business software applications easily and quickly and you will discover success in computer programming quickly and easily.

Finally, if you are a programmer needing help with career decisions, no matter how bad your situation is, sign-up for the Software Developers Boot Camp now and you will be personally coached on how to achieve success in your situation.


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]]> http://www.it-career-coach.net/2007/07/25/learning-c-programming-language-is-bad-for-your-career-c-programmers-cant-find-jobs/feed/ 21 The Secret Path To Contract Programming http://www.it-career-coach.net/2007/07/16/the-secret-path-to-contract-programming/ http://www.it-career-coach.net/2007/07/16/the-secret-path-to-contract-programming/#comments Mon, 16 Jul 2007 08:00:38 +0000 ITCareerCoach http://www.it-career-coach.net/2007/07/16/the-secret-path-to-contract-programming/

Who is a contract programmer?

A contract programmer is a software developer who is paid an hourly rate for working on special software development projects for a period. Contract computer programmers are not paid salaries like full-time developers but hourly wages.

Contract programmers tend to be very project focused because they are hired to solve specific problems or code specific features and as soon as that is done, they have to move on to another project or find a new client.

Contract programmers are independent software developers who work with clients on a project-to-project basis. The relationship between a contract programmer and a client lasts as long as the client has a steady stream of work. What usually happens is that as soon as the client can’t find any work or the work starts dwindling down, the client initiates the process to end the relationship.

Contract computer programmers are not supposed to form strong emotional bonds or ties to their clients unlike their full-time colleagues because the nature of their work is temporary. That is why contract programmers are sometimes called temporary workers.

Contract programmers are specialists, experts and master craftsmen. When a client hires a contract computer programmer, the client expects to find a master programmer who will hit the ground running. This separates contract programmers from full-time software developers and the master craftsmen from the wannabe contract programmers.

A contract programmer is expected to start churning out high quality code, fixing bugs, improving their clent’s software and generally justifing their high pay by solving important problems within a few hours or days of starting work. Unlike full-time software developers who may take 6 months to 1 year to prove themselves, contract programmers who haven’t mastered their art well-enough to make a difference are usually dropped like hot potatoes by their clients.

Contract programmers may be W2 contract programmers or 1099 contract programmers. The difference lies with how their taxes are filed with the IRS.

The W2 contract programmer is paid by a recruiting agency that is also responsible for withholding taxes and providing liability insurance. Many recruiting agencies will also provide medical, dental and 401K benefits.

On the other hand, 1099 contract programmers, generally known as free-lancers, pay their taxes to the IRS and provide their own medical, dental and 401K insurance.

A contract programmer has the liberty of working as a W2 contract programmer with one firm and a 1099 contract programmer with another firm.

How long do contract programming projects last?

Contract programming projects typically last from a month to 5 years. The trend is towards fewer months and higher billing rates. The typical duration is 3 months, 6 months or 1 year.

How much do contract computer programmers bill?

Contract programmers typically bill anywhere from $50 per hour to $200 per hour.

What factors determine the contract programmer’s billing rate?

The factors that determine a contract programmers billing rate include:

1. Experience: The more experienced a contract programmer is, the more the contract programmer can charge

2. Demand: Some computer programming skills are in high-demand while others are not. So contract programmers who master computer programming skills that are in high-demand can bill at a higher rate than others

3. Client: The compensation provided for the same programming skills can vary widely by client with no other explanation other than one client having more money than the other

Who should be a contract programmer?

Contract programming makes sense for computer programmers who love to be independent or who do not want to climb the corporate ladder. It is also good for those individuals who want to make more money than is found in regular full-time software development. Finally, it works for those who can use their down-time in between projects to sharpen their computer programming skills, pursue other hobbies or take vacations.

What is the future or outlook for contract programmers?

The future is bright for contract programmers as more companies are trending towards out-sourcing their software development projects to temporary staffing firms or recruiting agencies that in turn out-source the programming work to contract programmers. Contract computer programmers are considered to be expert, highly-skilled craftsmen and their opinions and expertise are valued at client sites They are also paid significantly more money and do not have to stand inline or beg for a pay raise when they work for it.

How do you become a contract programmer?

The critical skills needed for a successful contract programming career are:

  1. Expert programming skills

  2. Well-crafted resume

  3. Effective job interviewing skills

  4. Aggressive Resume Marketing

Read this previous post titled “The keys of a successful computer programmer career” to learn more about these keys.

If you have these skills in abundance, you will do well in contract programming. If you don’t or will like to develop them, you should read “How to become a master contract programmer” or CLICK HERE TO GET YOUR COPY IN A FEW MINUTES.


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]]> http://www.it-career-coach.net/2007/07/16/the-secret-path-to-contract-programming/feed/ 0 Fear And Self Confidence In Programming Interviews http://www.it-career-coach.net/2007/04/02/fear-and-self-confidence-in-programming-interviews/ http://www.it-career-coach.net/2007/04/02/fear-and-self-confidence-in-programming-interviews/#comments Mon, 02 Apr 2007 09:49:02 +0000 ITCareerCoach http://www.it-career-coach.net/2007/04/02/fear-and-self-confidence-in-programming-interviews/

I am taking questions on developer careers.

This article is on how to handle fear at programming interviews and become self-confident.

To succeed as a contract programmer, full time developer or freelance programmer you need to master the “developer interview”. Because your technical job interviewing skills are key to getting job offers, do not ignore them or you will quickly be un-employed in any competitive market.

The one critical skill that can make or break your programming interview is fear and here is why:

  1. Fear shuts your mind down! Have you ever experienced a feeling of loss of control in a programming interview? That feeling usually increases in intensity as you get more nervous at a job interview.

    The fear then begins to express itself in your job interview as an inability to hear your interviewer’s questions, recall the right answer to an interview question or articulate a coherent reply. The end result is that fear makes you look bad and incompetent to the interviewer.

  2. Fear stops you from getting hired! Fear makes you look unconfident and interviewers don’t want to hire programmers who are unsure of themselves. The general thinking is that if you are not sure of your programming skills, then you are probably not qualified to do the job.

  3. Fear shuts down your career. Fear of job interviews ultimately causes you to miss good job opportunities, keeps you longer at positions you dislike and keeps you un-employed for a longer time because employers are un-comfortable with hiring.

Here are a few tips, suggestions and tools for overcoming fear of programming interviews and becoming more confident in your programming skills.

  1. Preparation Breeds Self-Confidence! The quality of your preparation for your programmer interview will affect the confidence with which you answer questions.

    Begin by acknowledging that “interviewing skills” are not the same thing as “programming skills”. So you can’t assume that because you know how to program computers, you are also good at answering questions on your programming language.

    So, prepare hard for the questions and answers programmer job interview regardless of how well you can code.

  2. Act Confident And You Become Confident! Learn how to manage nervousness and fear at job interviews. Begin by acting self-confident because the mantra “fake it till you make it” works.

    Here are specific actions you can take at your interview to increase your level of your self-confidence and reduce or manage nervousness and fear:

    • Look the interviewer in the eye as you walk in smiling

    • Shake the hand of your interviewer firmly

    • Maintain eye contact as you answer questions. Control the urge to look around or away.

    • Speak up, speak at a measured pace and speak clearly when answering questions. Resist the urge to mumble or rush over your words.

    • Take a deep breath whenever you feel your control slipping.

    • Isolate and focus on the interview at hand. Don’t listen to negative or distracting thoughts that may try to assail your mind. You should either be listening intently to your interviewer’s question or focusing your mind completely on your reply. Don’t let your mind wonder.

    • Make a joke to break tension. If you feel yourself getting too tensed, relax, take a deep breath, smile and then make a non-offensive joke about something when it’s your turn to talk. The practice of smiling and joking can stop the tension that easily turns into more nervousness and fear.

  3. It’s Not The End Of The World. Do not treat your programmer interview as a life and death affair. Realize that as you work on techniques that help you overcome nervousness and become more self-confident, you perform better at job interviews. This means that you are improving your chances of getting a programming job. So, just do the best you can and realize that in the end, “doing your best is what counts”.

In this article, I have been talking about “how to overcome nervousness and fear in programming job interviews” and “how to succeed at technical interviews through self-confidence“.

This post is part of a series of answers to questions sent in by readers. If you have a question about your programmer career, post it here or email it to me.


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]]> http://www.it-career-coach.net/2007/04/02/fear-and-self-confidence-in-programming-interviews/feed/ 0 Beginning Computer Programming http://www.it-career-coach.net/2007/03/10/beginning-computer-programming/ http://www.it-career-coach.net/2007/03/10/beginning-computer-programming/#comments Sat, 10 Mar 2007 12:39:30 +0000 ITCareerCoach http://www.it-career-coach.net/2007/03/10/beginning-computer-programming/

Beginning computer programming can be difficult.

Even after getting hired beginner computer programmers may get the short end of the stick in matters ranging from compensation, training, and exposure to high profile projects and clients, peer respect, choice of technology, pecking order, holiday time and benefits.

There are several reasons why beginner programmers find it hard to get programming jobs or harder to find good career positions even after they are hired. Here are a few:

  1. Lack of experience: Yes, lack of strong industry experience will keep aspiring beginner programmers looking for work longer than they should. And even after they are hired they may be relegated to positions with no real prospects for career advancement.

  2. Lack of negotiation skills: Negotiation skills which are usually not taught at programming classes are critical to beginning computer programming. Because beginner programmers lack the skills to negotiate a better pay, more challenging programming projects and choice of technology their career suffers as they wait for something good to happen for them.

    However the relationship between you as a beginner programmer and your employer is that of an adult-to-adult relationship. Meaning that your employer expects you to look after your own interests.

  3. Weak Job Search Skills: Beginning computer programming jobs are often chosen out of fear, lack of self-confidence and lack of market insight.

    What is a beginner programmer to do? The first offer on the table is grabbed by the desperate, tired and stressed-out beginner programmer who’s intimidated and overwhelmed by their job search.

    As a result, beginner programmers may be stuck with under-paying, unfavorable jobs for several years until their career becomes un-livable.

  4. Low self confidence: We have all been there. You are hired and given the tag junior level or entry level programmer. This tag becomes how your fellow programmers see you and therefore how you see yourself.

    Even though you may be capable of performing at the same level as other mid-level or senior level programmers in your firm. If you believe the tag beginner, entry level, junior or novice programmer, you give someone else the power to tell you what you can and cannot do.

    And you lose that fundamental ability of a human, “the ability to self-determine one’s own destiny“.

Do you see what is going on here?

Beginning computer programming can also be challenging because beginner programmers often lack the ability to pain a better picture of their abilities through their resumes, present themselves confidently at technical interviews and negotiate better salaries that are not tied to arbitrary beginner / entry level / junior programmer CAREER TAGS.

While beginning computer programming, I discovered how I could do the same jobs usually referred to senior developers. So, I peeled off the beginning computer programming tags on my career and within 6 months my salary multiplied from $28,000/yr. to $75,000/yr. which is really not bad for starters.

And I amazed when I gete emails from programmers who are paralyzed by their beginning computer programming tag. Here is a recent e-mail. Read it below and see what I mean.

Hi there,

upon reading your article about becoming a programmer I have decided to contact you.

I am working for a web-development company as a trainee.

I have worked for this company for two months now and what was once a passion of mine (web development) has now become my worst nightmare.

Although I am supposed to be a trainee i have received no training what so ever and i am expected to know everything about every language.

When i run into almost imminent problems all the director can do is send me abusive emails where swearing and personal insults are common place.

I am desperate to become a good web-developer and would do anything to become as proficient as my colleagues but this just seems like it will never be the case.

I often study outside work but when i go into the office something else is required of me (just seems like a never ending cycle of doom and gloom).

My probation is up and i will find out if i will be kept on in my role as a “trainee developer”.

This does not add to my motivation neither does my directors abusive emails.

My advice to beginner computer programmers who find their careers in a rut like this is:

  1. Focus on the value you offer. Learn how to value your work by your raw ability to perform on the job and get the work done, nothing else. Think meritocracy and give no place to the self-defeating tags of beginner, entry-level or junior that only seek to restrain your performance.

  2. Improve your skills. You are a computer programmer. What you offer is your programming skills, experience and knowledge. If anyone takes away your ability to learn and improve your programming skills, your career is as good as dead. So, find creative ways to develop your skills fast outside of your office or your career will be over before it even begins.

  3. Think like a pro. Like a professional developer, ensure your resume and technical job interviewing skills stand out.

  4. Negotiate what you want. Begin to form a healthy self-image of yourself and then negotiate like you are serious about your career. When you get the pay you want, accept the offer and do a damn good job. And if you still can’t do a good job, better learn how to

  5. Own your destiny. Begin to act like you are in a free market economy. If you can’t get along with your employer despite your best efforts, simply apply for a position with another employer. There are several reasons why you may not get along with an employer.

    Sometimes, it’s your fault and sometimes it is not. Whatever the reason, don’t give in to fear and stay with a job you hate. Get out, get moving and get hired fast!


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]]> http://www.it-career-coach.net/2007/03/10/beginning-computer-programming/feed/ 0 Desktop vs. Web Developer Skills, Which’s In-Demand? http://www.it-career-coach.net/2006/11/05/desktop-vs-web-developers-whichs-in-demand/ http://www.it-career-coach.net/2006/11/05/desktop-vs-web-developers-whichs-in-demand/#comments Sun, 05 Nov 2006 08:56:56 +0000 ITCareerCoach http://www.it-career-coach.net/2006/11/05/why-web-developers-are-in-high-demand-and-windows-developers-are-not/

Desktop vs Web Developer Skills?

Desktop vs Web Developer Skills?

Are you focusing your software development efforts on an area of specialization or career track? In this post, I will discuss and compare the demand for web developer skills to the demand for desktop programming skills, so that you can decide which developer track is better for you and make a better investment of your time or efforts.

  • Desktop Developers create applications known as thick clients that reside on the desktop, while web developers create rich internet applications or websites which are viewed using a web browser (Firefox, Internet Explorer, Opera, etc.).

    Aspiring desktop developers have to learn windows application development using tools like Visual Basic, C#, C/C++.

  • Web Developers have to learn web application development using tools like Visual Basic, C#, PHP, ASP.NET they also have to learn user interfaced based technologies like CSS, JavaScript and HTML.

    Web Developers are in much higher demand at this time because the demand for web applications is much higher than the demand for Desktop applications.

For every five (5) web developer jobs advertised, I see just about one desktop developer job.

The demand ten (10) years ago was for desktop applications because businesses were still getting used to the INTERNET and the WEB.

Today there is a much higher demand for web applications because the web HAS CHANGED the nature of how we do business and how we interact with each other.

Web applications are in more demand because they are easier to scale than windows applications.

They are more cost effective to support, easier to deploy and much more accessible.

The skills you gain as a web developer will be in demand across a wider market than the skills you gain from Windows development.

So, here is a comparison of the demand for web developer skills to desktop programming skills

  • Scalability of Web Applications Versus Desktop Software

    Web Applications have thin front-ends (thin clients) which means that they can be accessed by more users or customers with less network or server overhead than Desktop software which has a much thicket front-end (fat client)!

  • Support or Maintenance Costs of Web vs. Desktop Software

    Web applications have a lower support and maintenance cost compared to desktop applications.

    When a Desktop application has to be upgraded, the software has to be re-installed on all the desktops accessing it!

    This is in contrast to Web Applications where an upgrade or re-install is necessary only for one or a few computers (in the case of server farms used in highly trafficked websites!)

    Maintaining Desktop Applications also costs an organization more money because more support technicians have to be employed to troubleshoot install or deployment bugs and issues encountered whenever you deploy a desktop application to several different computers.

  • Accessibility of Web Programs Versus Desktop Applications

    The internet makes web applications extremely accessible!

    A Web Application deployed to a server in Tulsa, Oklahoma can be accessed easily using a browser from a computer in any city, state or country.

    This is is contrast to Desktop applications where you first have to download and install the software on your local computer before you can view or access it.

    This is why the accessibility of Desktops is severely limited when compared to the accessibility of Web Applications!

  • Web vs Desktop Software, Which Is Better for Business?

    Web Applications act as business portals for providing personalized services to customers or users around the globe.

    Web applications make it easier for businesses to streamline or automate their business processes by providing one-stop destinations for frequently used or accessed services.

    Web Applications make it easy to deliver out-of-the-box ideas or new services quickly and through testing and experimentation, they make it easier to gather feedback on what works and what doesn’t!

If a large portfolio of your application development is in Windows, your career may end up with skills that are not marketable or become extinct like the Dodo.

My recommendation is: Learn Web Development Skills like ASP.NET, CSharp (C#), Visual Basic .NET, .NET Framework, SQL Server, MySQL, PHP, WordPress (CMS), JavaScript, CSS, HTML / XHTM, Ajax, JQuery.


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