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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 Audible Audiobook – Unabridged

John Sonmez (Author, Narrator), Simple Programmer, LLC (Publisher)
4.6 out of 5 stars 1,244 ratings

Technical knowledge alone isn't enough - increase your software development income by leveling up your soft skills

Early in his software developer career, 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 just in time, communicate clearly with management and consulting clients, negotiate a fair hourly rate, and unite teammates and coworkers in working toward a common goal.

What you will learn in this book:

  • How to systematically find and fill the gaps in your technical knowledge so you can face any new challenge with confidence
  • Should you take contract work - or hold out for a salaried position? Which will earn you more, what the tradeoffs are, and how your personality should sway your choice
  • Should you learn JavaScript, C#, Python, C++? How to decide which programming language you should master first
  • Ever notice how every job ever posted requires "3-5 years of experience," which you don't have? Simple solution for this frustrating chicken-and-egg problem that allows you to build legitimate job experience while you learn to code
  • Is earning a computer science degree a necessity - or a total waste of time? How to get a college degree with maximum credibility and minimum debt
  • Coding boot camps - some are great, some are complete scams. How to tell the difference so you don't find yourself cheated out of $10,000
  • Interviewer tells you, "Dress code is casual around here - the development team wears flipflops." What should you wear?
  • How do you deal with a boss who's a micromanager. Plus how helping your manager with his goals can make you the MVP of your team
  • The technical skills that every professional developer must have - but no one teaches you (most developers are missing some critical pieces, they don't teach this stuff in college, you're expected to just "know" this)
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Previous slide of product details
  1. Listening Length
    20 hours and 4 minutes
  2. Author
    John Sonmez
  3. Narrator
    John Sonmez
  4. Audible release date
    December 21, 2017
  5. Language
    English
  6. Publisher
    Simple Programmer, LLC
  7. ASIN
    B078J67VNF
  8. Version
    Unabridged
  9. Program Type
    Audiobook
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Product details

Listening Length 20 hours and 4 minutes
Author John Sonmez
Narrator John Sonmez
Whispersync for Voice Ready
Audible.com Release Date December 21, 2017
Publisher Simple Programmer, LLC
Program Type Audiobook
Version Unabridged
Language English
ASIN B078J67VNF
Best Sellers Rank #40,426 in Audible Books & Originals (See Top 100 in Audible Books & Originals)
#34 in Job Interviewing (Books)
#38 in Programming & Software Development
#81 in Software Development (Books)

Customer reviews

4.6 out of 5 stars
1,244 global ratings

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Customers say

Customers find the book provides practical information and guidance on navigating the complex world of software development. The writing style is conversational and easy to read, making it entertaining to read. Moreover, the book covers all aspects of a software career and delivers valuable advice, with one customer noting it's broken down into five manageable sections. Customers appreciate the style and find it appealing.

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251 customers mention "Information quality"239 positive12 negative

Customers find the book provides practical information and guidance on navigating the complex world of software development.

"...It's PACKED with information on absolutely every aspect of the Software Developer career. Seriously. This book is PACKED...." 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 praise the book's content, describing it as a gem and excellent resource, with one customer noting that every chapter is valuable.

"...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 appreciate the writing style of the book, which is easy to read and extremely concise, with one customer noting it reads like a mentor helping a protege.

"...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 delivers a lot of value and advice.

"...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 find the book entertaining and interesting to read.

"...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 this book excellent for software development, covering all aspects of a career in the field. One customer compares it to "The Art of War" in software development, while another notes its comprehensive approach to job types.

"...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 appreciate the actionable content of the book, which is divided into five sections, making it easy to follow.

"...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 appreciate the book's style, finding it appealing and professionally dressed, with one customer comparing it to an intricate piece of origami.

"...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

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

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

I got the book and I was very happy to get it early
5 out of 5 stars
I got the book and I was very happy to get it early
I got the book and I was very happy to get it early... but the packaging was bad. The book was damaged and it looked like the box looked like it was opened. Not John's fault at all... I've followed his videos for a year and I like his advice. I don't care if the book is damaged or not I'm SUPER excited to read this book. To be descriptive about the damage on the book their was a indent on the corner of the book and slight cover damage on the bottom... the contents is still readable. I only care about the content and I just posted this review because I know John has spent a year working on this book. I know if I put so much work into a book I'd want to know how my product was treated. I was expecting bubble wrap around the book for protection. I can't wait to start reading this book. Thank you so much John :). I'm also providing pictures to show damage... this IS NOT JOHN'S FAULT I'm making that clear. The box was partially opened just like that before opening it on both sides.
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Top reviews from the United States

  • Anthony Wilson
    5.0 out of 5 stars 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
    11 people found this helpful
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  • plus_p90x
    5.0 out of 5 stars 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.
    One person found this helpful
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  • Placeholder
    4.0 out of 5 stars 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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Top reviews from other countries

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  • ToSamJa
    5.0 out of 5 stars 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.
    Report
  • M. Hartsuiker
    5.0 out of 5 stars One of those books I wished I had a decade ago
    Reviewed in the Netherlands on July 18, 2017
    Verified Purchase
    Sometimes you come across an author who writes the things you want to read. Things that on so many levels make sense to you, but which are seldomly compiled into one single book. This is one of those books.

    I thoroughly enjoyed John's previous book, Soft Skills:The software developer's life manual. John offered me the chance to read this book in a pre-release state. I have read, at this stage about 40% of the book and so far, I have been enjoying the read. It's a very good, well laid out, easy to read book which has filled in a few gaps in my knowledge.

    Like John's previous book, this is a book for those that wish to take action and be the master of their own carreer. I wish I had this kind of information when I was starting out about a decade ago. It would have made my life easier and less stressful.

    If you are the type of person who wishes they could get up to speed quickly with new technology, develop an online presence and manage their own brand as a developer then this is the book for you.

    If you can only manage to read two books this year, those two should be Soft Skills:The software developer's life manual and The Complete Software Developer's Career Guide. They will give you a solid foundation in software development and strengthen the foundation already present, so you can move forward both in your life and carreer as a software developer.
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  • thiagoponte
    5.0 out of 5 stars 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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  • James Murphy
    5.0 out of 5 stars If only I had a time machine...
    Reviewed in the United Kingdom on July 18, 2017
    Verified Purchase
    I was going to post the heading "I wish I had this 10 years ago" but someone beat me to it. Thinking about it, I'd rather have a time machine with the critical knowledge I have now and armed with John's book. This book really is the missing manual.

    I'll admit I've been a follower of John's work for 2 and a half years now after having read the fantastic book Soft Skills: A Developer's Life Manual. Ever since then I would argue having implemented some of his advice my career has gone from strength to strength. The greatest strengths in his writing is that it pumps you up and gets you motivated.

    While I don't agree with everything John has said in the book I would say I agree with 98% of it. I have over 10 years experience working in the software industry and echo a lot of his thoughts in many different areas including his discussion around bootcamps and whether University education these days is really the right option. There's also a fantastic section on how to learn anything quickly. Given John has developed 55 different Pluralsight courses in a short space of time I'm fairly confident he knows what he's doing...

    Some may argue that the advice given in this book crosses over with a lot of John's online material at SimpleProgrammer.com, however, if you want it all organised in an easily digestible format this is the book to purchase. It's absolutely worth it's weight in gold.

    Following John's advice I've built numerous blogs, spoken at conferences (through invites), been invited to webinars and been approached to produce online content. I've also received a promotion, increased salary by more than 25% during this time. Whilst I can't put everything down to John, because ultimately the buck stops with you, I can attribute his books for kick-starting my career into overdrive.

    If you're stuck in a dead-end job, want to transfer over to a promising career as a software developer or simply want to give your current career a bit of an adrenaline kick then buy this book.
    One person found this helpful
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  • ulisses
    5.0 out of 5 stars Very good book, author was fantastic
    Reviewed in Spain on June 1, 2018
    Verified Purchase
    Very straightforward, also really broad. Some parts may be uninteresting for some people but overall very good. : D D
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