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The Complete Software Developer's Career Guide: How to Learn Programming Languages Quickly, Ace Your Programming Interview, and Land Your Software Developer Dream Job Paperback – July 13, 2017

by John Sonmez (Author)

4.6 1,243 ratings

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Developer careers are tough…

…and few know the secrets to land top jobs.

Why isn’t talent enough?

John Sonmez discovered that technical knowledge alone isn't enough to break through to the
next income level - developers need "soft skills" like the ability to learn new technologies,
communicate clearly with management and consulting clients, negotiate the best rate, and unite
teammates in working toward a common goal.

Nobody teaches these soft skills.

This guide contains strategies for everyone from Entry-Level to Senior Developers and gives
guidance for Brand New Developers as well.

You’ll learn how to:

Find and Fill the Gaps in your Technical Knowledge
Choose between Contract Work or a Salaried Position
Which Should you Learn First - JavaScript, C#, Python, C++?
Get a College Degree with Maximum Credibility and Minimum Debt
Decide if a Coding Bootcamp is a Value or a Scam.
Plus, much more…

This book will take you inside the recruiting industry. What that "friendly" recruiter really wants
from you, how they get paid, and how to avoid getting pigeonholed into a job you'll hate.

It will change your career.

You’ll love this insider’s manual to success, because the difference between the MVPs and the
code monkeys is knowing how to manage the skills nobody mentions.

Get it now

Product details

Publisher ‏ : ‎ Simple Programmer, LLC (July 13, 2017)
Language ‏ : ‎ English
Paperback ‏ : ‎ 796 pages
ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 0999081411
ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0999081419
Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 2.96 pounds
Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 7.5 x 1.8 x 9.25 inches

Best Sellers Rank: #283,127 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)
- #274 in Introductory & Beginning Programming
- #285 in Python Programming
- #311 in Software Development (Books)

Customer Reviews:
4.6 1,243 ratings

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John Sonmez

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John Sonmez is a software developer and the author of two best-selling books, The Complete Software Developer's Career Guide and Soft Skills: The Software Developer's Life Manual.

He's also the founder of the Simple Programmer blog and YouTube channel, where he reaches 1.4 million software developers yearly with a central message:

Technical skills alone aren't enough for a successful career—or life.

By focusing on "soft skills" like the ability to communicate clearly and lead by example, the mental resilience to bounce back from failure and even an improved level of personal fitness, software developers can break through the "glass ceiling" and enjoy extraordinary success.

John learned these lessons himself the hard way—through trial and error over his 17+ year career as a developer—and he's candid about the fits and starts he struggled through during those early years.

John started his software development career at age 10, hacking C and C++ to create virtual worlds for his favorite MUDs.

When John landed a coveted six-figure Silicon Beach job at age 19, he thought his career was set.

In reality he was only set up for years of frustration and disappointment—from getting "laid off" from that cushy job after underwhelming his boss with his C++ skills, to a spectacular implosion during an intense onsite interview with Microsoft, to finally taking a job outside of programming just to pay the bills.

Eventually though John realized that there's a huge difference between knowing how to program and having all the skills to be a successful, professional software developer—and he set out to develop the technical, leadership and communication skills he lacked.

John went on to become a highly paid consultant in test automation and Agile methodology, and the 55 courses he published with the technical education powerhouse PluralSight makes him one of the most prolific online trainers in the field of software development.

John effectively retired at 32 and moved to San Diego.

Today he focuses his energy on helping other developers achieve the success they desire through the videos, books and courses in his Simple Programmer platform.

Customer reviews

1,243 global ratings

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Customers find the book provides practical information and advice on navigating the complex world of software development. They describe it as an awesome, valuable read for both seasoned professionals and newcomers to the field. The writing style is accessible, clear, and easy to read in a personal voice. Many readers consider the book worth every penny and say it delivers a lot of value and advice. The book covers all aspects of a software career in a broad yet deep enough way to make it timeless. The section on getting a job was also helpful for them as they consider transitioning. Overall, customers find the content actionable and useful for software developers at any stage of their careers.

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Information quality Book content Writing style Value for money Enjoyment Software development Actionable content Style

251 customers mention "Information quality"239 positive12 negative

Customers find the book provides a high-level overview of software development and career advancement. It offers practical advice and guidance on navigating the complex world of software development. The book covers every aspect of a developer's journey, from choosing programming languages to advancing their careers. Readers appreciate the book's thorough research and helpful tips for getting started.

"...I was really impressed with this book. It is so jam packed with information that is written in an often humorous fashion...." Read more

"...Above all he is a great teacher. He brings enthusiasm, conviction and authenticity when he speaks on any topics he is passionate about...." Read more

"...Packed with practical advice and insights, the book covers every aspect of a developer's journey, from choosing a programming language to advancing..." Read more

"...either has experienced what it's like firsthand or has done some FANTASTIC research...." Read more

153 customers mention "Book content"149 positive4 negative

Customers find the book's content valuable and worth reading. It provides useful advice for both experienced professionals and newcomers to the field. The writing style is engaging and the book offers helpful recommendations for further reading. Overall, it's a worthwhile addition to their library and an important reference tool.

"...really irrelevant as the word count is still huge and the content is amazingly valuable...." Read more

"...He brings enthusiasm, conviction and authenticity when he speaks on any topics he is passionate about...." Read more

"...accessibility of his writing style, making this a valuable read for both seasoned professionals and newcomers to the field...." Read more

"...So, for the young software developer, I would say this book is a must read. But you need to take the advice to heart...." Read more

116 customers mention "Writing style"106 positive10 negative

Customers find the book's writing style accessible and easy to read. They appreciate the clear basic English and personal voice. The book covers a wide range of topics, from resume writing to interview preparation, in a concise yet comprehensive format. Readers also like the bolded text that makes it easy to navigate through the chapters.

"...the way had did makes the digital version of this book easier to read on my device...." Read more

"...The chapters are not long and the font and spacing make them easier to read...." Read more

"...experience shines through in the level of detail and the accessibility of his writing style, making this a valuable read for both seasoned..." Read more

"...Not only is everything explained simply, there are even references to provide you with further information on specific topics...." Read more

35 customers mention "Value for money"33 positive2 negative

Customers find the book provides good value and advice. They appreciate the author's transparent approach to success and investment strategies. The writing is honest and realistic, with no sugarcoating.

"...This is probably the best dollar bill I have spent in my life...." Read more

"...It will save you countless hours of frustration and thousands of dollars...." Read more

"...It certainly is worth the low price it's sold at, whether it is used as an introduction to the field or a reference as needed." Read more

"...] the content is so deep and valuable that I find myself going back to the book from time to time when I need..." Read more

20 customers mention "Enjoyment"20 positive0 negative

Customers enjoy the book. They find it entertaining and interesting, with good points of view. The author brings enthusiasm, conviction, and authenticity when speaking on any topic.

"...Above all he is a great teacher. He brings enthusiasm, conviction and authenticity when he speaks on any topics he is passionate about...." Read more

"...It's in depth, entertaining, and actually useful...." Read more

"...The writing is consistently readable and even entertaining, and what John has to say largely matches up with my own experiences...." Read more

"...of this book and read it from start to finish and found it to be very entertaining and useful for someone like me...." Read more

20 customers mention "Software development"20 positive0 negative

Customers find the book helpful for software developers of all career stages. It covers all aspects of a software career in a comprehensive yet accessible way. The section on getting a job was helpful for them as they consider transitioning. They appreciate the section on software craftsmanship and the job types covered in the book. Overall, readers find the book excellent and timeless.

"...The book covers five areas of a software developer's career, from starting to advancing and everything between...." Read more

"...down into five sections: getting started as a software developer, getting a job, what you need to know about software development, working as a..." Read more

"...that still apply to me because it covers the entire expanse of your career---not just how to start out...." Read more

"...are many great books out there on software development and software craftsmanship. I believe John has added to that library...." Read more

17 customers mention "Actionable content"17 positive0 negative

Customers find the book's content actionable and easy to understand. They appreciate its straightforward approach that walks them through the process from beginning to end. The writing style is described as engaging, almost like a storybook. While the book is long, it's broken up into manageable sections.

"...That probably sounds a little bold, but it really does walk you through from beginning to end, soup to nuts, how to start and advance your..." Read more

"...This massive (almost 800 pages) tome is broken down into five sections: getting started as a software developer, getting a job, what you need to..." Read more

"...The book is broken up into five sections with each one being useful regardless of where you are at in your software career...." Read more

"...I am already employed as a software developer, I found the first few chapters interesting...." Read more

9 customers mention "Style"9 positive0 negative

Customers find the book's style appealing. They say it paints a great picture of what it's like to be in the workforce. The sections are nice to look at, and the book is described as intricate and unique.

"...While I do not agree 100% with what he says, for me his style and interest are very appealing...." Read more

"Imagine this book as an intricate piece of origami. Held by itself, it is an important asset that can surely help most readers...." Read more

"Really good look at the modern process of job hunting and the career tracks for a software engineer...." Read more

"From Chris Compton: This book paints a great picture of what it is like to be a software developer...." Read more

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Top reviews from the United States

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Anthony Wilson
So Much Information and Value Packed Into This Book
Reviewed in the United States on July 2, 2021
Verified Purchase

First, let me tell you that I do not know this author and I have not been asked to write a review.
I was looking for information on careers in Software Development and there just aren't that many out there.
I came across this book and read the reviews (much like you are doing now) and saw that there were a few negative comments.

I honestly do not understand how anyone could say anything bad about this book.

It's PACKED with information on absolutely every aspect of the Software Developer career. Seriously. This book is PACKED. We have all bought and read books that were nothing but fluff. This is NOT that book. John obviously took the time to write this book. Unlike some of the other books we download that were obviously written over a weekend and were never proof read. This book is solid. It is also quite large.

Now you may haver seen where someone complained that John put a space between sentences. They claim that it was done to make the book appear longer. Let me tell you that not only does the author know how to write, having the the content spaced the way had did makes the digital version of this book easier to read on my device.

Adding the spacing the way that he did may make the page count higher, but that is really irrelevant as the word count is still huge and the content is amazingly valuable.

One comment complained that the author is including links to his other books/blogs/etc. I say GOOD. I'm glad that he included these FREE additional items for me. I can choose to click or ignore, but I have seen the information these links have taken me to and am grateful that he has included them. These value added items are a great addition to the book. Once you read through the book and ask yourself "What Next" you have additional resources from these links. Use them ... don't use them, that's your choice, but I'm glad to have them.

I was really impressed with this book. It is so jam packed with information that is written in an often humorous fashion. It has absolutely provided me with the information that I sought.

Once again, I am no way being coerced, bribed, tortured or manipulated in writing this review. You can click on my name and see the other reviews that I have left on Amazon over the years. I'm just so impressed with this book and how it has answered every question that I had about this career and many that I didn't even know to ask.

John,
Thanks for a great read. Keep up the great work and look for me on you blog.

~ Tony Wilson

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plus_p90x
Instant Classic for All Software Developers
Reviewed in the United States on July 19, 2017
Verified Purchase
Every software developer, whether aspiring, intermediate or experienced should read this book. In fact, Complete Software Developer's Career Guide should be required reading along with the other classics, like Code Complete, Clean Code, Design Patters and Mythical Man Month to name a few. John Sonmez is living proof that setting goals, working hard and persisting can help you achieve anything you set your mind on. This guy lives what he preaches. He is a successful real estate investor, speaker, entrepreneur, course creator, writer, you-tuber and the list goes on. Above all he is a great teacher. He brings enthusiasm, conviction and authenticity when he speaks on any topics he is passionate about. Helping programmers (or software developers) is his true passion and it comes across in the pages of this excellent resource.
The book covers five areas of a software developer's career, from starting to advancing and everything between. The book is broken out into five sections with 60 chapters. His writing style is as if he is talking directly to his readers and he doesn't hold back. He calls on anecdotes from his life, he doesn't apologize for having opinions that are based on real life experience. The chapters are not long and the font and spacing make them easier to read.
Those who are new to John Sonmez and haven't seen any of his Youtube videos or read his Soft Skills book should be prepared for some of his recurring themes. Don't look for a job - make jobs come to you through inbound marketing. Bypass the traditional college route if you have the discipline to learn on your own or the time and dedication to go through a coding bootcamp. Pay someone to create a professional resume for you. Start a blog and stick with it. Negotiate it for your salary - don't just take the first offer. These and many other timeless lessons await software developers in this instant classic.

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The Complete Software Developer's Career Guide: A Comprehensive Roadmap to Success
Reviewed in the United States on October 6, 2024
Verified Purchase
John Sonmez's "The Complete Software Developer's Career Guide" is a comprehensive and essential resource for software developers at all stages of their careers. Packed with practical advice and insights, the book covers every aspect of a developer's journey, from choosing a programming language to advancing one's career. Sonmez's wealth of experience shines through in the level of detail and the accessibility of his writing style, making this a valuable read for both seasoned professionals and newcomers to the field. Whether you're just starting your software development journey or looking to take your career to new heights, this book is a must-read that will equip you with the knowledge and strategies to thrive in the dynamic world of software development.

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ToSamJa
Excellent book
Reviewed in Germany on May 10, 2023
Verified Purchase

I like this book.
John gives really great advices, which helps me a lot.
The book is wetten on very simple way and it is easytounderstand. All useful topics are in book.
I like to call this book my career Bible.

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Cliente de Amazon
Amazing book
Reviewed in Mexico on August 17, 2017
Verified Purchase
This book is really good, it have a lot of useful tips and things to take care that you can't imagine. I really recommend you this book event if you are not a software developer.

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Cale MacDonald
Your pocket sized software developer life coach
Reviewed in Canada on July 19, 2017
Verified Purchase
Another fantastic product from John. If you were blown away by how much detail was in his previous publication “Soft Skills: The software developer’s life manual” prepare yourself for hurricane strength winds.

This book helps bridge gaps for anyone who is or is looking to get into software development. The book is logically setup into 5 main sections: getting started as a software developer, getting a job, what you need to know about software development, working as a developer and finally advancing your career.

Getting started as a software developer is the first chapter of this massive almost 800 page book. This section addresses questions that seem daunting to new developers, such as how to choose your first language, should you do a boot camp or teach yourself. Even if your not a beginner, this section has some great advice especially if you are mentoring new or growing developers.

The next section progresses after you have started learning and are ready to venture into the industry. John addresses points such as how to find a job in this diverse economy, how to switch from a different career path as well as the contracting vs salaried question.

Section three and four cover most of the A-Z requirements of working in the software development field. Topics such as source control, debugging, maintaining code are all covered in section three. Section four deals more with the people aspect of working in software development. How to setup a good work / life balance, while setting yourself up for success. Even a seasoned developer can learn something from these chapters, as first impressions are usually the lasting ones.

The final section deals with advancing your career though methods such as blogging, networking and even speaking at conferences.

Although a lot of this material has been covered by John by way of his blog, youtube or his previous publication it is really nice having all this information quickly accessible (and mobile; if you have the kindle version) manner. I eagerly look forward to the audio book as John always provides some quality asides.

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thiagoponte
Got to a point and got stuck? This book will help you unstuck once and for all!
Reviewed in Brazil on July 20, 2017
Verified Purchase
It will teach you about getting a job, whether you have experience or not.
Then you can goes through several software development types like web development, mobile, Back-end and many others.
It also helps you understand tasks that are no coding, but everyone involved in programming in general must know like methodologies, testing, debugging, source control.
Oh man o wish i had this book available when i started into the programming world 8 years ago...
And i'm not even done here!
The book has has whole section as how to approach being a software developer, with chapters about work/life balance, teammates, getting a raise, how to dress and a really important one to all the women in the Tech world.
The last section is all about how to advance in your career.
It goes on talking about how to keep your skills up to date, the importance of creating a blog has on your reputation...
Go check it out.

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Guillaume Attard
Principles for developers, guideline for success.
Reviewed in France on July 27, 2017
Verified Purchase
If you want to succeed in life, whether you're an IT engineer or anyone else, you have to build a solid foundation and shape your thinking around principles. To me this book brings you just that. It's kind of Ray Dalio's book "Principles" but applied to the IT field (although a lot of those principles can be applied to anyone) and presented in a very practical way, from starting in the industry, get a job to building your career, your network, your brand and creating a business. Everything is straight to the point and simply explained. Up to you to take action after reading that book. But at least you won't have the excuse of not knowing what to do.

This book is huge and contains a lots of information. Each sections feels like a whole book in itself, so for the price and the great info you get, it's a great value.

Being in the IT world myself, I found the most value in the last two sections. I already pointed out my weaknesses and stuff I need to work on. I will start from that book to take action and improving myself and build my career.

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The Complete Software Developer's Career Guide: How to Learn Programming Languages Quickly, Ace Your Programming Interview, and Land Your Software Developer Dream Job Paperback – July 13, 2017

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Top reviews from the United States

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5.0 out of 5 stars So Much Information and Value Packed Into This Book

5.0 out of 5 stars Instant Classic for All Software Developers

4.0 out of 5 stars The Complete Software Developer's Career Guide: A Comprehensive Roadmap to Success

Top reviews from other countries

5.0 out of 5 stars Excellent book

5.0 out of 5 stars Amazing book

5.0 out of 5 stars Your pocket sized software developer life coach

5.0 out of 5 stars Got to a point and got stuck? This book will help you unstuck once and for all!

5.0 out of 5 stars Principles for developers, guideline for success.

So Much Information and Value Packed Into This Book

Instant Classic for All Software Developers

The Complete Software Developer's Career Guide: A Comprehensive Roadmap to Success

Excellent book

Amazing book

Your pocket sized software developer life coach

Got to a point and got stuck? This book will help you unstuck once and for all!

Principles for developers, guideline for success.