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TitreDateDurée
EP71: The Hidden Half: ADHD and Neurodiversity in Tech with Sam Bramwell07 janv. 202600:43:58

In this episode we talk about ADHD in tech.  We explore what ADHD is, how it shows up in the tech workplace, and provides practical tips for both neurotypical and neurodivergent people to work effectively together.

 

Our guest Sam Bramwell has been a CEO, Chief of Staff at Microsoft UK and now leads a coaching program for leaders with ADHD.

 

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Keywords

Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria (RSD), Interest-based nervous system, Body doubling, Dopamine dysregulation, Neurodivergent, Executive functioning, ADHD coaching, Personalized leadership, Tech Talent Charter, Paint done

 

Takeaways

  • 50% of tech workers self-identify as neurodivergent, while employers think only 3% are
  • ADHD is driven by an interest-based nervous system (novelty, urgency, complexity, challenge, passion) and involves dopamine dysregulation
  • Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria (RSD) means criticism can feel like physical pain for people with ADHD
  • Learn about your own "operating system" and communicate clearly what you need to perform at your best
  • "Paint done" - provide clear expectations, context, and break large projects into manageable steps
  • Always include agendas and context for meetings to reduce anxiety
  • Practice personalized leadership by asking people how they work best and what they need
  • Create environments that support different processing needs (flexible working, quiet spaces, body doubling sessions)
  • Lead with empathy, focus on strengths-based approaches, and use positive reinforcement
  • Educate yourself about neurodiversity - many "ADHD-friendly" practices benefit everyone
EP70: Will AI Eat Consultancy Jobs? with Steve Chan10 déc. 202500:41:26

In this episode we're asking the question "Will AI eat consultancy jobs?".  There are so many people using their skills to help businesses deploy the latest tech.  So what's the future look like for them.

 

Steve Chan is the founder of a new company Stealth Labs. He's worked in Digital Intelligence at BAE and been an AI solutions engineer at Microsoft. 

 

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Keywords

 

consultancy, inefficiency, business perspective, profit margins, upskilling, training, organizational roles

 

Takeaways

  •  Consultancy often operates inefficiently from a business standpoint.
  • Consultants are frequently sold out to organizations for fees.
  • There is overwhelming pressure to maintain profit margins in consultancy.
  • Consultants may spend more time in one organization than intended.
  • The need for training and upskilling is critical in consultancy.
  • Profit margins can hinder the ability to respond to new requirements.
  • Consultants face challenges in balancing multiple organizational roles.
  • The structure of consultancy can lead to inefficiencies in service delivery.
  • Effective training programs are essential for consultant development.
  • Understanding the dynamics of consultancy can improve business outcomes.
EP69: Leadership 101 - Building Trust with Ben Caird26 nov. 202500:41:34

In this episode we talk about leadership core skills.  Specifically building trust.  How do you build trust with a team?  We talk through the 5 Ways of Being that help you build trust with a team.

 

Ben Caird is a seasoned professional leader.  He's led teams of all sizes in a variety of tech companies and has years of experience.

 

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Keywords

Trust, Authentic, Vulnerable, Accepting, Present, Useful, Leadership, Coaching, Results, Team

 

Takeaways

  • Be Authentic: Work in line with your values, own your feedback directly, be the same person at work and outside
  • Be Vulnerable: Lead with your mistakes, make it safe for others to fail, encourage challenge even publicly
  • Be Accepting: Delegate outcomes not activities, coach people to improve in their style not yours, accept different approaches
  • Be Present: Put your phone away, give full attention, show up physically when possible, consider if you give or drain energy
  • Be Useful: Stop doing the work, coach and open doors instead, pass the pen and let others own the plan
  • Ask "What do you think?": It's powerfully empowering and helps people feel heard
  • Efficiency vs Effectiveness: The fastest way (just telling people what to do) is often the least effective
  • Build diverse teams: Don't hire clones of yourself - different approaches strengthen the team
  • Leadership isn't looseness: Know what's going on, stay close enough to coach and drive results
  • Results through people: You can be a nice human AND achieve great results - it's not either/or
EP68: So You Want To Be A CTO with David Crawford12 nov. 202500:44:09

In this episode we're talking about being a CTO. People listening might have CTO career aspirations. A lot might report into a CTO, and others might be selling to CTO's. So we talk to David about all things CTO.

David Crawford has spent many years as a CTO. He's also been a CTO advisor and non-executive director. He often hosts London Tech Leader panels, and also hosts the "CTO Lens" podcast.

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Takeaways

  • The role of a CTO is complex and varies by organization.
  • CTOs are responsible for technology vision and strategy.
  • Understanding finance is crucial for technology leaders.
  • Soft skills in leadership are essential for success.
  • Performance management is a critical aspect of the CTO role.
  • Engaging with the business is vital for a CTO.
  • Career development requires curiosity and mentorship.
  • Fractional CTO roles are becoming more popular.
  • CTOs must balance technical knowledge with leadership skills.
  • Communication with non-technical stakeholders is key.

Keywords

CTO, CIO, technology leadership, fractional CTO, skills, career development, performance management, stakeholder management, communication, technology strategy

 

 

EP67: First Recall = First Call - Neuroscience of Memory, Time and Persuasion with John K Coyle29 oct. 202500:40:04

In this episode of the Tech World Human Skills Podcast, Ben Pearce and John Coyle explore the concept of becoming more memorable and the science behind how to do it. John shares insights from his experiences as an Olympic athlete and how understanding the nature of time can enhance our lives.

 

John is an Olympic silver medallist, best-selling author,  keynote speaker and expert in Chronoception.

 

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Takeaways

  • Memories are the currency of time.
  • The nature of time is not linear; we experience human time, not clock time.
  • Life begins at the edge of your comfort zone.
  • Tiny moments often determine the trajectory of your future.
  • Routine is the enemy of time; break it to create memories.
  • To be memorable, recognize heightened circumstances as opportunities.
  • Design experiences that leverage risk, uniqueness, and emotional intensity.
  • Emotions drive human behavior; engage them to influence others.
  • When you have trouble, you might be solving the wrong problem.
  • Time and money are fungible; invest in creating memorable experiences.

 

Keywords

chronoception, memorable experiences, time perception, emotional engagement, storytelling, influence, personal growth, professional development, memory creation, human connection

EP66: Speaking At My First Big Conference with Felicity Nyan15 oct. 202500:40:50

In this episode of the Tech World Human Skills Podcast,  Ben Pearce speak to Felicity Nyan, a Cloud Solution Architect at Microsoft.  She shares her journey from being a hesitant public speaker to successfully presenting at SQLBits, one of the largest data conferences in the UK. Felicity discusses why she wanted to  speak at a conference, the challenges she faced, and the valuable lessons learned along the way.

 

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Takeaways

  • Felicity Nyan shares her journey from a hesitant speaker to presenting at SQL Bits.
  • SQL Bits is a community-led conference that offers opportunities for all levels.
  • Preparation is key, but life can often get in the way.
  • Having a co-presenter can ease the pressure of presenting.
  • Start early on proposals and keep a record of ideas.
  • Practice makes perfect, but balance is important to avoid sounding scripted.
  • User groups are great platforms for practicing public speaking.
  • Engaging the audience is crucial for a successful presentation.
  • Technical issues can arise, so have backup plans in place.
  • Confidence can be built through small challenges outside of public speaking.

 

Keywords

public speaking, SQL Bits, data platform, conference presentation, Felicity Nyan, Microsoft, user groups, tech conferences, presentation tips, career growth

EP65: Rethinking Goals. The Must Be a Better Way with Radhika Dutt01 oct. 202500:50:19

In this episode of the Tech World Human Skills podcast, Ben Pearce speaks with Radhika Dutt, a product leader and author of 'Radical Product Thinking.' They discuss the limitations of traditional goal setting and the negative impact of performance metrics on collaboration and motivation. Radhika introduces a new approach.

 

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Takeaways

  • Goals create a burden and hinder curiosity.
  • Traditional goal setting is outdated and ineffective.
  • Puzzle setting and solving can drive better results.
  • Performance metrics can lead to 'performance theater.'
  • A clear vision is essential for effective goal setting.
  • OHLs (Objectives, Hypotheses, Learnings) provide a framework for problem-solving.
  • Collaboration is eroded by competitive goal setting.
  • Feedback should focus on learning and adaptation.
  • Real-world examples demonstrate the effectiveness of puzzle solving.
  • Accountability should be based on problem-solving, not just metrics.

 

Keywords

goals, productivity, radical product thinking, performance management, puzzle solving, business results, vision, OKRs, objectives, hypotheses, learnings

EP64: The Customer Connection Formula with Liping Huang17 sept. 202500:40:56

In this episode of the Tech World Human Skills podcast, Ben Pearce and guest Liping Huang discuss the importance of technical folks building rapport and relationships with customers. We chat through practical tips for establishing strong connections, the significance of empathy, effective communication, and that technical skills alone are not enough.

 

Liping Huang has huge experience working with customer in tech roles.  She has been a solutions architect at Microsoft, solutions architect at Databricks and now runs Dataleaps. 

 

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Takeaways

  • Building rapport is crucial for success in customer interactions.
  • Technical knowledge is essential before engaging in pre-sales.
  • Empathy helps in understanding customer challenges and needs.
  • Effective communication involves making complex topics easy to understand.
  • Being likable and helpful fosters strong customer relationships.
  • Self-assessment is key to identifying areas for improvement.
  • Follow up on commitments to build trust with customers.
  • Creating reusable content can streamline customer interactions.
  • Understanding different audiences is vital for effective communication.
  • Continuous development is necessary to adapt to changing technologies.

 

 

Keywords

 

rapport, relationships, customer service, empathy, communication skills, technical skills, pre-sales, business relationships, customer interactions, professional development

EP63: From Proposal To Podium: Speaking At Big Tech Conferences with Renuka Jhalli03 sept. 202500:37:38

In this episode of the Tech World Human Skills Podcast Ben Pearce and Renuka Jhalli discuss the importance of speaking at events, and how to get chosen as a speaker. Renuka shares insights from working with high-profile speakers and offers tips for delivering engaging sessions.

 

Renuka is  a Senior Content Manager for Tech Show London.  She has produced shows for years and has some amazing insight to share.

 

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Takeaways

 

  • Big tech conferences are valuable for learning and networking.
  • Tech Show London is a large, inclusive event showcasing various tech disciplines.
  • Speaking at events allows individuals to share knowledge and support their community.
  • Authenticity and vulnerability are key to engaging presentations.
  • Unique perspectives and real-world experiences resonate with audiences.
  • The call for papers is open to anyone with a compelling idea.
  • AI can assist in writing, but authenticity is crucial.
  • Main stage speakers often share their passion and stories.
  • Engaging with the audience creates a memorable experience.
  • New speakers bring diversity and fresh perspectives to the stage.

 

Keywords

 

Tech Show London, conference speaking, technology events, networking, speaker tips, career development, storytelling, audience engagement, professional growth, community support

EP62: Building High Performance Teams in Tech with Sean O'Shea20 août 202500:44:44

In this episode, we chat through the challenges and dynamics of building high-performance teams in the tech industry. . Sean shares insights on individual coping strategies, the importance of emotional intelligence, and the necessity of strong relationships within teams.

Sean O'Shea is the founder of Craft Your Culture.  He's spent years in the tech industry and now helps organisations build high performance cultures.  

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Takeaways

  • Being part of a great team is fulfilling.
  • The tech landscape is experiencing constant change.
  • AI is creating noise and pressure in organizations.
  • Teams are feeling disoriented due to constant change.
  • Emotional intelligence is crucial in navigating uncertainty.
  • Reframing challenges can help individuals cope better.
  • Strong relationships are essential for effective teamwork.
  • Leaders should focus on building connections within teams.
  • Defining clear goals helps teams prioritize effectively.
  • Mistakes and failures should be normalized in team culture.

 

Keywords

team dynamics, high performance culture, tech industry, uncertainty, emotional intelligence, relationship building, leadership, workplace culture, AI impact, team improvement

EP61: Why Digital Projects Fail with James Freed23 juil. 202500:40:11

In this episode we discuss the reasons behind the failure of digital projects.  James shares his insights from his extensive experience in the NHS and emphasizes the root causes of success and failure.

James Freed is the Deputy Director of NHS Digital Academy.  The team he leads exists to help as many health and care teams as possible deliver more value tomorrow than they did today.  Before that he was CIO for Health Education England.

 

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Takeaways

 

  • 70% of digital transformations fail to achieve expected benefits.
  • One hour of training can significantly improve staff satisfaction.
  • Focus on outcomes rather than outputs for project success.
  • Staff satisfaction is directly linked to patient safety and wellbeing.
  • Digital champions can provide immediate support to staff.
  • Cows (computers on wheels) illustrate the challenges in NHS tech.
  • Bad digital experiences contribute to staff burnout and turnover.
  • Training is essential to prevent burnout and improve job performance.
  • 60% of digital project failures are due to cultural and skills deficits.
  • Digital literacy varies significantly across different industries.

 

Keywords

digital projects, NHS, project failures, healthcare technology, digital transformation, staff experience, training, project success, human skills, technology implementation

EP60: Converting Learning To Execution with Tim Chinchen09 juil. 202500:42:12

In this episode we're talking about the challenge of turning the things you've learnt, into things you actually do.  Moving from  theory, to applied changes in behaviour. 

Tim Chinchen is Senior Director of Solutions Consulting at Pager Duty.  He's a seasoned pro in the tech world and shares his experience with us.

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Takeaways

  • Always be learning and applying that knowledge.
  • Focus on one wildly important goal at a time.
  • Storytelling is crucial in technology to engage audiences.
  • Adapt your communication style based on the audience.
  • Commit to your goals and see them through.
  • Use humor to connect with others.
  • Measure success with clear metrics and objectives.
  • Regular one-on-ones can enhance team communication.
  • Learn from mistakes and iterate on your approach.
  • Engage with your team to foster collaboration and innovation.

 

Keywords

learning, application, technology, storytelling, communication, personal development, leadership, continuous improvement, pre-sales, management

EP59: Creating A Thriving Team with Leigh Smith25 juin 202500:47:16

In this episode of the Tech World Human Skills Podcast we discuss the essential elements of creating a thriving team. Leigh shares his extensive background in engineering, sales, and product development, emphasizing the importance of purpose, communication, and structured processes in fostering team success. 

 

Leigh Smith is a former CTO and now founder of Vantage Effect.  He has years of industry in a variety of varied tech companies.

 

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Takeaways

  • Every team has the potential to thrive.
  • A thriving team is characterized by open communication and challenge.
  • Confidence within the team is crucial for success.
  • Purpose and vision guide team direction and decision-making.
  • Structured communication enhances focus and productivity.
  • Realistic expectations lead to accountability and pride in work.
  • Collaboration requires balancing individual productivity with team support.
  • Leaders must foster an environment of trust and openness.
  • Understanding the problem is key to effective solutions.
  • Regular reflection and improvement are essential for team growth. Communication impacts team dynamics significantly.
  • Intra-team communication is often more effective than inter-team communication.
  • Leaders must avoid dominating discussions to empower their teams.
  • Roles and responsibilities should include both individual and team accountabilities.
  • Respectful challenge fosters a culture of innovation and improvement.
  • Breaking down projects into smaller tasks enhances manageability.
  • Investing in personal development is crucial for team success.
  • Effective storytelling is a vital skill for all team members.
  • The collective knowledge of a team is greater than individual expertise.
  • Accountability leads to confidence and quality in team outputs.

 

Keywords

thriving teams, team dynamics, leadership, communication, team success, team collaboration, team purpose, agile methodology, team roles, accountability, team dynamics, communication, roles and responsibilities, respectful challenge, personal development, thriving teams, engineering teams, accountability, effective leadership, team success

EP58: The Darker Side of Tech and ESG with Oliver Cronk11 juin 202500:45:19

In this episode, Ben Pearce and Oliver Cronk delve into the often overlooked environmental impacts of technology. They discuss the lifecycle of tech products, the significant role of datacenters, the challenges of e-waste, and the energy demands of AI. 

 

Oliver Cronk is a Technology Director at ScottLogic.  He's also the host of the Architect Tomorrow podcast and community.

 

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Takeaways

  • Technology has a significant environmental impact that is often overlooked.
  • The lifecycle of tech products includes energy consumption and resource extraction.
  • Data centers contribute to environmental issues through energy and water usage.
  • E-waste is a growing problem that needs proper disposal methods.
  • Planned obsolescence in devices leads to increased waste.
  • AI's energy consumption is much higher than traditional computing.
  • There is a lack of transparency in the tech industry's sustainability practices.
  • Consumers should be more aware of the environmental costs of their devices.
  • Using renewable energy sources for data centers is crucial for sustainability.
  • The tech industry needs to rethink its approach to hardware and recycling. We have traded off developer efficiency for machine efficiency.
  • AI can help find new battery chemistries and improve energy efficiency.
  • The hype around AI can lead to frivolous use without considering costs.
  • Sustainability is about creating enduring organizations.
  • Investors are increasingly looking for long-term sustainability in businesses.
  • There are significant cost savings to be found in sustainability efforts.
  • Awareness of environmental impact is crucial for tech professionals.
  • Generative AI can help translate complex sustainability concepts into layman's terms.
  • The true costs of AI technologies are not yet fully realized.
  • A culture of thriftiness and secondhand use can help reduce e-waste.

 

Keywords

technology, sustainability, environmental impact, datacenters, e-waste, AI, lifecycle analysis, renewable energy, carbon footprint, hardware, AI, sustainability, energy efficiency, environmental impact, technology, carbon reduction, business strategy, generative AI, climate change, tech industry

EP57: The Reluctant Presenter with Kate Pearce28 mai 202500:34:57

EP57:  The Reluctant Presenter with Kate Pearce

 

In this episode we're talking about public speaking.  And specifically the experience of people that hate presenting, but understand they need to do it to be more successful.

 

Kate Pearce is a very reluctant presenter.  She is a Managing Editor in a Publishing House and happens to be the wife of Ben.   She shares her experience of overcoming nerves and how she'll never like public speaking.

The Tech World Human Skills Podcast is produced by people in the tech world for people in the tech world.  Learn tips and best practices that help you thrive in your career.

 

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Takeaways

  • Public speaking can be daunting, especially for introverts.
  • Preparation is key to managing presentation anxiety.
  • Video on demand can alleviate the stress of live presentations.
  • Breathing techniques can help calm nerves before speaking.
  • It's important to have a structured script for presentations.
  • Positive mindset and self-affirmation are crucial for success.
  • Engaging with the audience through eye contact is beneficial.
  • Practice makes perfect; rehearse your presentation multiple times.
  • Anticipating questions can help manage Q&A sessions effectively.
  • Remember that your message is important and worth sharing.

 

 

Keywords

public speaking, introverts, presentation skills, anxiety, video on demand, live presentations, preparation techniques, breathing techniques, positive mindset, audience engagement

 

EP56: Leadership, Talking Value and Command And Control: Q+A with Ben Caird14 mai 202500:44:19

It's another Q+A session with Ben Pearce and Ben Caird.  Loads of different questions about building your skills to thrive in the tech world.  How Do You Talk Value?  How Do You Adapt?  What is Command and Control Leadership vs Servant Leadership?

 

Ben Caird is a seasoned industry pro and a Divisional Support Director at Access Group.  He shares his insight and joins us for a great chat.

 

The Tech World Human Skills Podcast is produced by people in the tech world for people in the tech world.  Learn tips and best practices that help you thrive in your career.

 

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Takeaways 

  • Authentic leadership means being true to oneself and values.
  • Self-awareness is crucial for effective leadership.
  • Leaders must adapt their style to different situations.
  • Talking value involves understanding what matters to others.
  • Value can mean different things to different people.
  • Effective communication is key in leadership roles.
  • Command and control leadership is resurging in tough times.
  • Servant leadership promotes collaboration and inclusion.
  • Change management requires understanding human behavior.
  • Building trust enhances team performance. You rarely get 100% of the people doing the thing.
  • Command and control leadership can demotivate team members.
  • Asking for input can be a powerful motivator.
  • Adaptability is crucial in a changing environment.
  • The BAT framework includes belief, attention, and technique.
  • Resilience is built through routine and self-care.
  • Sleep is essential for mental clarity and focus.
  • Persistence is key in overcoming challenges.
  • Life has its highs and lows, and that's normal.
  • Being kind to yourself is important during tough times.

 

 

Keywords

leadership, authentic leadership, value, command and control, servant leadership, self-awareness, team dynamics, business communication, change management, tech industry, leadership, adaptability, resilience, personal growth, command and control, BAT framework, mental well-being, change management, motivation, teamwork

EP55: AI: The Rise of The Zero-Knowledge Threat Actor with Etay Maor30 avr. 202500:47:55

In this episode we're talking about the underbelly of AI.  About the impact of AI on security, and how AI itself can be hacked. 

Etay Maor is the Chief Security Strategist at Cato Networks.  He's a Professor at Boston College and a regular industry event speaker all over the world.

The Tech World Human Skills Podcast is produced by people in the tech world for people in the tech world.  Learn tips and best practices that help you thrive in your career.

 

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Takeaways

  • AI is lowering the barrier for entry into various fields, including cybercrime.
  • Zero knowledge threat actors can exploit AI tools without technical skills.
  • AI can assist in creating sophisticated phishing attacks and malware.
  • The evolution of cybercrime has made it accessible to more individuals.
  • AI's role in generating fake documents poses significant risks.
  • Cybercriminals are early adopters of new technology, including AI.
  • The ability to persuade AI systems is becoming a new skill.
  • Emerging threats include the use of AI in bullying and harassment.
  • Understanding AI's capabilities is crucial for cybersecurity professionals.
  • Proactive measures are needed to combat the rise of AI-driven threats. Threat actors are early adopters of technology, including AI.
  • AI can significantly enhance cybersecurity defenses.
  • The OODA loop is a strategic framework for decision-making in security.
  • Education on AI threats is crucial for individuals and organizations.
  • Shadow AI poses risks to both enterprises and individuals.
  • AI tools can help identify and mitigate threats effectively.
  • Understanding the ethical implications of AI is essential.
  • Hacking techniques can exploit AI vulnerabilities.
  • Personal security measures are as important as corporate ones.
  • Staying informed about AI developments is vital for safety.

 

Keywords

AI, cybersecurity, zero knowledge threat actor, cybercrime, threat intelligence, hacking, AI in security, phishing, deepfakes, technology risks, AI, cybersecurity, threats, OODA loop, defense strategies, ethical concerns, shadow AI, hacking techniques, personal security, enterprise security

EP54: How To Be a Leader In The AI Age with Pratim Das16 avr. 202500:36:06

AI is on everyone's mind.   It's changing the way we do things, and it's evolving fast.  So how do you be a leader in the AI age?  What does leadership look like?  That's what we're talking about today. 

Pratim Das has spent many years in tech.  He's been a software developer, a data architect at AWS.  He's led Data and AI teams at Microsoft, been VP of Data and AI at Cap Gemini Invent and that's only scratching the surface. 

The Tech World Human Skills Podcast is produced by people in the tech world for people in the tech world.  Learn tips and best practices that help you thrive in your career.

 

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Takeaways

  • Leadership in the AI age requires clarity and human focus.
  • Open-mindedness is essential for leaders to adapt to new technologies.
  • Embracing change and simplicity can drive adoption of AI solutions.
  • Continuous learning is crucial to keep up with AI advancements.
  • Purpose should guide all AI initiatives to ensure meaningful outcomes.
  • Experimentation is necessary, and leaders should encourage a culture of it.
  • Leaders must take responsibility for the ethical use of AI.
  • Diverse teams are essential to mitigate bias in AI systems.
  • Simplicity in solutions leads to higher adoption rates.
  • Leaders should protect time for learning and development within their teams.

Keywords

AI, leadership, continuous learning, responsible AI, embracing change, purpose-driven leadership, technology, innovation, business outcomes, experimentation

EP53: The Startup Mindset: 5 Lessons That Level Up Your Life with Alex Casalboni02 avr. 202500:45:07

Whether you work in a small startup, a massive corporate or anything in between there's loads of lessons we can take from startup culture.

Alex Casalboni shares his wisdom with us today.  He has worked in many startups and worked in large corporates too.  He also hosted the Italian AWS podcast for 4 years. 

The Tech World Human Skills Podcast is produced by people in the tech world for people in the tech world.  Learn tips and best practices that help you thrive in your career.

 

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Takeaways

  • Complaining does not solve problems; action does.
  • Iterate quickly to gather feedback and improve.
  • Your initial version should be imperfect to encourage feedback.
  • Focus on what differentiates your product or service.
  • Avoid distractions that do not add value to your business.
  • Learn to say no to non-essential tasks.
  • Build for immediate user value, not perfection.
  • Understand the real needs of your users.
  • Don't waste time on features everyone else has.
  • Embrace the startup mindset for innovation. Complaining is not a strategy; focus on solutions.
  • Iterate quickly to gain feedback and improve.
  • Prioritize high-impact activities to avoid distractions.
  • Categorize decisions into one-way and two-way doors.
  • Embrace failure as a learning opportunity.
  • Break down complex ideas into manageable tasks.
  • Make decisions quickly when possible to maintain momentum.
  • Cultural acceptance of failure can enhance innovation.
  • Use micro failures to guide future decisions.
  • Regularly reassess priorities to stay aligned with goals.

 

Keywords

startups, lessons, complaining, iterate quickly, focus, prioritize, tech culture, developer relations, feedback, innovation, startup, decision-making, failure, prioritization, iteration, business strategy, product development, leadership, entrepreneurship, cultural mindset

EP52: The Telling Part Of Data Storytelling with Scott Taylor19 mars 202500:39:18

 

Data is such an important and growing aspect of the tech world.  And it's really important to get executive buy in to support the projects you want to do.  So in this episode we're talking about Data Storytelling.

 

Scott Taylor aka The Data Whisperer is an industry veteran, regular keynote speaker and successful author.

 

The Tech World Human Skills Podcast is produced by people in the tech world for people in the tech world.  Learn tips and best practices that help you thrive in your career.

 

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Takeaways

  • Data storytelling is essential for executive buy-in.
  • The telling part of storytelling is crucial for engagement.
  • Effective communication is a superpower in business.
  • Practicing storytelling techniques enhances delivery.
  • Understanding your audience's perspective is key.
  • Use the language of your audience to connect better.
  • Confidence in delivery impacts audience perception.
  • Smaller meetings require different engagement strategies.
  • The three V's of data storytelling are vocabulary, voice, and vision.
  • Focus on the why behind data initiatives, not just the how.

Keywords

data storytelling, executive buy-in, communication skills, data management, presentation techniques, audience engagement, storytelling framework, business communication, soft skills, data leadership

EP51: How To Get Hired In Tech with Bob Bath05 mars 202500:38:50

We're talking about how to apply for jobs in tech in 2025.  Our guest is Bob Bath.  He has loads of experience in recruitment and is director at tech recruitment agency Mexa Solutions.  He shares his tips on how to stand out from the crowd and get hired.

 

The Tech World Human Skills Podcast is produced by people in the tech world for people in the tech world.  Learn tips and best practices that help you thrive in your career.

 

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Takeaways

  • The tech job market has seen significant changes due to COVID-19 and economic fluctuations.
  • Salaries in tech recruitment peaked during the post-COVID boom but have since stabilized.
  • Crafting a compelling CV is crucial as it serves as your first impression to potential employers.
  • A CV should be concise, ideally two to three pages, focusing on achievements rather than just responsibilities.
  • Using AI tools can help in structuring and polishing your CV, but personal input is essential.
  • Tailoring your CV for each job application increases your chances of being noticed.
  • Following up on job applications can make a significant difference in getting noticed by recruiters.
  • Cover letters may not be necessary; a strong CV and a brief email can suffice.
  • The current job market is competitive, making it essential to stand out with a tailored approach.
  • Networking and direct communication with recruiters can enhance your job search efforts. Cover letters are often unnecessary; focus on a concise CV.
  • Building your brand on LinkedIn is essential for visibility.
  • Succession planning helps leaders identify future talent.
  • Apply quickly to job postings to increase chances of consideration.
  • Set up job alerts on multiple platforms for better opportunities.
  • Not all job postings appear on every platform; diversify your applications.
  • Keep your CV to three pages and use bullet points for clarity.
  • Avoid negativity on social media; it can harm your professional image.
  • Maintain a work journal to track achievements and projects.
  • Building your brand is valuable for current and future job searches.

Keywords

tech job market, recruitment, CV writing, job application tips, AI in recruitment, job market trends, tech recruitment, job search strategies, hiring process, career advice, job application, LinkedIn, CV tips, job search strategies, personal branding, succession planning, job market 2025, networking, career advice, job alerts

EP50: You Don't Need To Demo Tech To Win with Jack Cochran19 févr. 202500:45:16

In this episode we're talking about how you don't need to demo tech to win.  You don't need to show people loads of tech, to convince them your solution is the best.  What?  Controversial.

 

Our guest today is Jack Cochran.  He is a seasoned pre-sales veteran and General Manager at The Pre-Sales Collective. 

 

The Tech World Human Skills Podcast is produced by people in the tech world for people in the tech world.  Learn tips and best practices that help you thrive in your career.

 

Show Links

Ben Pearce LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/benpthoughts/

Tech World Human Skills Home - https://www.techworldhumanskills.com 

Jack Cochran Linked In - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jackcochran/

Pre-Sales Collective - https://www.presalescollective.com/

 

Takeaways

  • You don't need to rely solely on demos to sell.
  • Buyers today come with pre-existing knowledge.
  • Building trust is essential for successful sales.
  • Effective discovery goes beyond just tailoring demos.
  • Understanding the buyer's business is crucial.
  • Sales strategies must adapt to modern buyer behavior.
  • Demos should not be the only tool in your toolbox.
  • Tailored communication is key to addressing diverse buyer needs.
  • Salespeople must ask the right questions to uncover needs.
  • Navigating complex buyer personas requires careful understanding. You have more tools in your toolbox than just a hammer.
  • Focus on building trust and understanding.
  • Make the buying process as easy for them as possible.
  • When you do show a demo, keep it simple.
  • Understand the internal buying process and navigate it effectively.
  • Arm your buyers with the information they need to advocate for your solution.
  • Show the demo to whoever asks to see it.
  • Ask what's the minimum amount of things to show in a demo.
  • Forget the old-fashioned corporate deck standard demo.
  • Speak to customers in their language and show them what they care about.

Keywords

sales, demos, buyer behavior, trust, discovery, pre-sales, software, sales strategy, customer engagement, sales techniques, customer needs, trust building, demo process, internal buying, sales strategy, stakeholder engagement, software sales, pre-sales, business communication, sales techniques

EP49: How To Build A Culture Of Innovation with Mark Renney05 févr. 202500:43:53

In this episode we're talking about how to build a culture of innovation. What practical things can you do to create an environment where innovation thrives.

Our guest today is Mark Renney. He is a tech nerd turn entrepreneur and founder and Managing Director of software development company Wubbleyou.

The Tech World Human Skills Podcast is produced by people in the tech world for people in the tech world. Learn tips and best practices that help you thrive in your career.

Show Links

Ben Pearce LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/benpthoughts/

Tech World Human Skills Home - www.techworldhumanskills.com

Mark Renney Linked In - https://www.linkedin.com/in/markrenney/

Wubbleyou Newsletter - https://newsletter.wubbleyou.co.uk 

EP48: How To Become A Human Leader with Nick Jemetta and Helen Joy22 janv. 202500:42:12

In this episode we're talking about how to lead a team.  But a team that people love being in.  Lots of people are unhappy at work and we'll be talking about how to create an environment where people thrive and do their best work.

Our guests are Helen Joy and Nick Jemetta.  They've loads of experience in leading teams and have recently created a program called the Human Leader.

The Tech World Human Skills Podcast is produced by people in the tech world for people in the tech world.  Learn tips and best practices that help you thrive in your career.

Show Links

EP47: Tech Translator: How To Bridge The Gap To Business with Ed Sant'Anna08 janv. 202500:45:39

In this episode we're be talking about how to translate the complexity of tech to business stakeholders.  We'll talk about why that's important and how to do it with Ed Sant'Anna.

Ed Sant'Anna has been an engineer, an architect and held senior leadership roles.  He's worked in large corporates, start-ups and is a regular event speaker.

 

The Tech World Human Skills Podcast is produced by people in the tech world for people in the tech world.  Learn tips and best practices that help you thrive in your career.

 

Show Links

EP46: How To Write Disgustingly Well with Emma Loveday11 déc. 202400:41:50

In this episode we talk about how to write disgustingly well.  We talk through the value of being able to write well, some practical tips on how to raise your game, and where AI can help you out.

Emma Loveday is a former actress, screenwriter and now is a copywriter and copy consultant. 

The Tech World Human Skills Podcast is produced by people in the tech world for people in the tech world.  Learn tips and best practices that help you thrive in your career.

 

Show Links 

EP45: How To Give And Receive Feedback with Nicola Slater27 nov. 202400:44:06

In this episode we talk about feedback.  We talk about why it's vital to be able to give and receive feedback well.   We also share a number of frameworks that help you practically do it better. 

 

Nicola Slater is a People Development Manager at Unily and has some amazing tips and tricks to share.

 

The Tech World Human Skills Podcast is produced by people in the tech world for people in the tech world.  Learn tips and best practices that help you thrive in your career.

 

Show Links

EP44: How To Thrive With Imposter Syndrome with Frances Nichols13 nov. 202400:30:15

Frances Nichols recently featured on the Mashable list "The Top 7 Future Tech Power Women of 2024".  And yet she suffers with Imposter Syndrome.   In this episode we talk through how imposter syndrome has impacted her and she shares tips to thrive with it.

 

The Tech World Human Skills Podcast is produced by people in the tech world for people in the tech world.  Learn tips and best practices that help you thrive in your career.

  

Show Links

Ben Pearce LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/benpthoughts/

Tech World Human Skills Home - www.techworldhumanskills.com

Frances Nichols LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/frances-nichols-07589440/

EP43: Questions With Caird: The Return with Ben Caird30 oct. 202400:32:33

Does success = happiness? He's back. It's another questions and answers episode with Ben Caird.

Ben Caird, Divisional Support Director at The Access Group joins me on the mic shares his thoughts and wisdom (or lack of) on a variety of tech world human skills questions?

The Tech World Human Skills Podcast is produced by people in the tech world for people in the tech world. Learn tips and best practices that help you thrive in your career.

 

Show Links

Ben Pearce LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/benpthoughts/

Tech World Human Skills Home - www.techworldhumanskills.com

Ben Caird LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bcaird/

EP42: Tech Keynotes: The Backstage Pass with Martin Beeby16 oct. 202400:50:23

Find out what really happens behind the scenes at those massive tech keynotes.
 

Martin Beeby, Principle Technical Keynote Lead at AWS takes us behind the scenes of the world's biggest tech key events.  How are they created and what can we learn?

The Tech World Human Skills Podcast is produced by people in the tech world for people in the tech world.  Learn tips and best practices that help you thrive in your career. 

 

Show Links

Ben LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/benpthoughts/

Tech World Human Skills Home - www.techworldhumanskills.com

Martin LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thebeebs/

EP41: How To Make Notes: Creating A Personal Knowledge Management System with Nicole van der Hoeven02 oct. 202400:37:02

In this episode Nicole van der Hoeven  drops some wisdom on how to build your own personal knowledge management system.  Learn quicker and find the information you need instantly. 

 

The Tech World Human Skills Podcast is produced by people in the tech world for people in the tech world.  Learn tips and best practices that help you thrive in your career.

 

Show Links

EP40: The Top 5 Tips To Thrive In Corporate Tech with Dan Westley18 sept. 202400:39:05

In this episode Dan Westley shares his top tips on how to thrive in the corporate tech world.  Dan has spent many years at some of the most successful tech corporations.  He is now a Cloud Engineering Leader at Oracle.

 

The Tech World Human Skills Podcast is all about developing the professional skills and soft skills that help you fly in your career.  In each episode we share the top tips, failures and lived experiences of people thriving in the technology sector.

 

Show Links

EP39: Planning Your Cloud Career Journey with Prasad Rao04 sept. 202400:30:32

In this episode Prasad Rao shares how you can develop your career in cloud and shares some inspirational stories on others who already have.  Prasad is a Principal Solution Architect at AWS,  co-founder of "Become A Solution Architect" and author of the book "Cloud Career Journeys".

 

The Tech World Human Skills Podcast is all about developing the professional skills and soft skills that help you fly in your career.  In each episode we share the top tips, failures and lived experiences of people thriving in the technology sector.

 

Show Links

EP38: How To Explain Really Complicated Things with Viktor Farcic21 août 202400:39:45

In this episode Viktor Farcic shares how he explains really complicated things really well.  Viktor is a Developer Advocate at Upbound and also runs the excellent YouTube channel DevOps Toolkit with over 74K subscribers.

 

The Tech World Human Skills Podcast is all about developing the professional skills and soft skills that help you fly in your career.  In each episode we share the top tips, failures and lived experiences of people thriving in the technology sector.

 

Show Links

EP37: Funding Startups and Scaleups 101 with Leke Sholuade13 août 202400:41:35

In this episode Leke Sholuade talks through the fundamentals of how startups and scaleups are funded.  Leke is CEO of Black Valley, an organisation focused on supporting black led startups to access funding to start and scale their business

Show Links

EP36: Getting Involved In The Tech Community with Ethan Sumner31 juil. 202400:33:00

In this episode Ethan Sumner talks about the benefits of Tech Community and how to get involved.  Ethan is the Chief Executive of DevEx Connect, is a passionate community leader and has founded and run many great communities over the years.

 

 

Show Links

EP35: Could Apprenticeships Solve The Digital Skills Gap? with Luke Smith17 juil. 202400:33:40

In this episode Luke Smith talks about the reality of hiring apprentices into your team.  Luke was once an apprentice and is now the Co-Founder and Technical Director of Microsoft partner Elysian:IT who regularly hires apprentices.

 

Show Links

EP34: How To Thrive Whilst Working Remotely with Lisette Sutherland03 juil. 202400:36:43

In this episode Lisette Sutherland talks about remote working and how you get the best out of it.  Lisette authored the Work Together Anywhere Handbook, is a TEDX speaker and runs the company Collaboration Superpowers.

 

Show Links

EP33: A Better Way To Estimate with Jason C. McDonald19 juin 202400:37:56

In this episode, Jason C. McDonald discusses the challenges of estimating how long it will take to complete a task and a better way to do it. Jason is a business analyst, former principal software engineer and author of the book "Dead Simple Python." 

 

Show Links

EP32: Using Personas To Be More Successful With Stakeholders with Alex Stuart05 juin 202400:37:05

In this episode we're talking about Personas.  We're talking about what they are, why they're useful and how you use them. 

Alex Stuart is our guest.   He's a Senior Solutions Engineer at Confluent, and regularly contributes to the community at conferences and online.

 

Show Links

EP31: Questions Episode With Ben Caird22 mai 202400:28:35

This episode we've done something a bit different and answered your questions.  Questions include:

  • Given it's mental health awareness week. What does that mean to you to you and how do you think about mental health?
  • I`m about to go through a recruitment process.  Have you got any tips?
  • How did you get your first job in management and any tips to help someone get their first manager role?

Show Links

EP30: Learning Lots Fast with Whitney Lee08 mai 202400:37:04

Whitney Lee is a Technical Advocate at VMWare Tanzu and constantly has to learn new stuff fast. She's a regular on the speaking circuit and hosts a number of online shows.

In this episode we talk about how she went from knowing nothing about tech, to becoming a seasoned pro, speaking at global conferences. She shares her secrets on how to learn lots fast.

 

Show Notes

EP29: Technical Mentoring with Jeff Stokes24 avr. 202400:36:55

Jeff Stokes is a Principal Escalation Engineer at Tanium.   He's published several books, worked at a variety of technical companies and spends lots of energy mentoring people. 

In this episode we talk about how what technical mentoring is, why it's so powerful and how to succeed as either a mentor or mentee.

Showlinks

EP28: 6 Tips To Drive Action With Customers with Maddie Suppon10 avr. 202400:35:12

Maddie Suppon is Head Of Sales Engineering at 360 Learning and regular voice in the community. In this episode she shares 6 tips on how to drive action and impact with the customers you work with.

Showlinks

EP27: The Reality Of Life As A Digital Nomad with Evie Brockwell27 mars 202400:30:29

Evie Brockwell is a Product Coach, Podcaster and Digital Nomad.  In this episode she shares the reality of living the life of a Digital Nomad, whilst running a business as a Product Coach.  She shares the highs, the lows and some practical tips on getting started.

Showlinks

EP26: Be A Person Not A Personal Brand with Scott Hanselman13 mars 202400:36:49

In this episode, Ben interviews Scott Hanselman, a VP at Microsoft and a well-known figure in the tech world. They discuss Scott's background, the importance of empathy in the tech industry, and the power of intentionality and curiosity.

Scott shares his insights on leadership, influence, and building a personal brand or not. He emphasizes the significance of understanding the fundamentals of technology and the value of prioritization and reflection. The conversation concludes with key takeaways, including the importance of authenticity and helping others.

 

Showlinks

EP25: Social Mobility in Tech with Neil Marley28 févr. 202400:39:17

Summary

Neil Marley is the CEO of Qualyfi. But his background isn't what you might expect. In this episode we talk through the challenge of Social Mobility, what we can do in tech to help, and what led Neil to champion this issue.

 

Key Takeaways

  • Social mobility is crucial in the tech industry to provide equal opportunities for individuals from diverse backgrounds.
  • The tech industry can contribute to social mobility by removing barriers and bias in hiring and focusing on individuals' potential and skills rather than traditional qualifications.
  • Companies can make a difference by offering training and mentorship programs that develop technical and soft skills, enabling individuals to become effective contributors from day one.
  • Improving social mobility benefits not only individuals but also organizations and society as a whole, leading to greater diversity, innovation, and success.

 

Showlinks

EP24: Using Story Arcs To Engage Stakeholders with Mark Green14 févr. 202400:45:01

Summary

Mark Green is host of the popular "Two PreSales in a Pod" podcast, he's the Master of Ceremonies at the Demofest Events and Director of Pre-Sales and Buyer Enablement at Consensus.  In this episode we talk through story arcs and how they help you influence stakeholders.

 

Key Takeaways

  • Storytelling is a powerful tool for engaging and influencing people.
  • A story needs credibility (ethos), logic (data), and emotion (pathos).
  • Story arcs, such as the Cinderella arc, can be used to structure narratives and create tension and resolution.
  • Crafting stories for different audiences and stages of the buying journey is essential.
  • Storytelling can be applied to demo automation to create engaging and impactful presentations.

Showlinks

EP23: Lessons From Founding A Data Consultancy with Suranga Fernando31 janv. 202400:37:48

Summary

Suranga Fernando, co-founder of Arreoblue, shares his journey from a corporate tech role to founding his own data analytics consultancy. He discusses the challenges and rewards of starting a business, the importance of balance and diversity of thought, and the skills needed to succeed in the industry.

 

Key Takeaways

  • Seek balance and diversify your skill set to enhance your career prospects.
  • Plan carefully and seek feedback from trusted individuals before launching a business.
  • Invest in long-term skills like empathy and communication, as they are crucial for success in consulting.
  • When hiring, prioritize candidates with diverse perspectives and strong communication skills.

Showlinks

EP22: Speaking With Clarity with Lidia Vasileva17 janv. 202400:33:49

Lidia Vasileva is a Solution Engineer, conference speaker and active presales community member.  In this episode we talk about clarity, a vital skill to master.  We'll talk about why it's so important and how to start to master it.

The Tech World Human Skills Podcast is all about developing the professional skills and soft skills that help you fly in your career.  In each episode we share the top tips, failures and lived experiences of people thriving in the technology sector.

 

Links

Ben On Linked In - https://www.linkedin.com/in/benpthoughts/ 

Elevated You Home - www.elevatedyou.live 

Lidia On Linked In - https://www.linkedin.com/in/lidia-vasileva/ 

Lidia Website - https://packetmage.com 

© My Podcast Data · Projet indépendant · Données issues d'Apple & Spotify