Should You Learn Plumbing?

Why I Started This Newsletter

With so much content being created online, it can feel like everything has already been said, with every important and trivial topic covered, and that creating your own platform won’t add much value. I don’t quite agree with this. I believe that in every field, there is room for new, valuable perspectives and fresh ideas. In this newsletter, I plan to share materials that I find important from the perspective of career development and the future of work. 

This newsletter is a space for me to share my thoughts, analyses, and advice on the evolving landscape of work and professional growth.

I invite you to actively participate in shaping this newsletter. Your questions, suggestions, and comments will guide me in addressing the topics that matter most to you.

The best time to plant a tree was twenty years ago. The second best time is now.

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Navigating the Future of Work: Insights from Braintrust’s CEO Ankur Goyal

Short-term: Level Up Your Skills

Ankur Goyal’s advice is blunt: “You can’t be a crappy software engineer.” As AI and large language models take over routine tasks, it’s crucial to continuously improve your skills to stay ahead. 

As the quote indicates, in this case, Goyal’s advice was directed at software engineers, but I think this advice applies to most professions and specializations to a greater or lesser extent.

Long-term: Consider Traditional Trades

Goyal suggests exploring careers less likely to be disrupted by AI, such as traditional crafts and plumbing. Braintrust even offers a vocational perk to help employees explore these trades. While it may seem out of place in a tech company, Goyal believes these roles will become increasingly valuable.

How to Stand Out in 2024: Embrace Video Applications and AI Tools

Adobe Express found that 79% of employers see video applications as the best way to secure a job. Here’s how to create a standout video:

1. Introduction: Start with a warm greeting, a genuine smile, and state your name and the position you’re applying for.
2. Professional Appearance: Dress as if for an in-person interview.
3. Elevator Pitch: Concisely summarize your skills, qualifications, and why you’re a great fit.
4. Keep It Brief: Aim for under two minutes, making every second count.

A Hard Reset: 84 New Rules for Online Etiquette

InsideHook has introduced 84 new digital etiquette rules. Here are some key highlights:

1. After-Hours Slack: Messaging colleagues after hours is okay, but don’t expect an immediate response.
2. Keep Social Media Personal: Avoid following up on work emails via social media.
3. Video Meeting Etiquette: If a meeting has fewer than five participants, turn your camera on. If there are more participants, the camera is optional for those not directly involved.
4. “Secret” Slack Channels Aren’t Private: Maintain professionalism even in “secret” channels used by the company. They are never truly private.
5. Proper Email Etiquette: Always use proper punctuation and grammar in work emails, even in very short messages.

The Hidden Risks of Being a High-Performer at Work

High performers often face covert victimization from peers. Research summarized by Wojciech Zytkowiak-Wenzel shows that success can attract envy, leading to backbiting, sabotage, and other forms of covert aggression. Employers should recognize and address these issues to maintain a supportive workplace.

Unlocking Power at Work: Insights from Jeffrey Pfeffer

Key Strategies mentioned in the podcast:

1. Build a Personal Brand: Stand out with unique actions and style.
2. Don’t Worry About Being Liked: Focus on respect over popularity.
3. Break the Rules: Challenge unhelpful rules.
4. Ask for Help: Seek assistance proactively.
5. Network Relentlessly: Connect with many and help them connect with others.
6. Show Up Powerfully: Make strong first impressions. Your voice and look are the most here.

Labour Migration Agreement: Bulgaria and India

At a roundtable, Indian-Bulgarian Business Chamber Chairperson Petar Velev announced that Indian Ambassador Sanjay Rana submitted India’s readiness to sign a labor migration agreement with Bulgaria. Deputy Economy Minister David Sukalinski highlighted Bulgaria’s acute shortage of skilled workers, suggesting the need to attract talent from third countries. A potential agreement with India will be one of the responses to this problem.

Why is this important? According to the “World Population Prospects 2024” report released by the UN, Poland’s population will be approximately 19.5 million by 2100, almost half of its current size. Already, the gap caused by demographic issues is being filled by citizens of other countries who want to work in Poland. Since 2015, the number of immigrants has increased sixfold, from just under 200,000 to over a million.

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Have you come across an interesting article, podcast, or book that you think might interest me? Let me know in a private message on LinkedIn!

Until next time,

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You can read the newsletter in Polish HERE.