In the film industry, where creativity intersects with technical skills, I spent 15 years crafting visual stories and honing my craft.

After deciding to retire from film, I found myself drawn to a new narrative — one written in code. (I feel like I hear Morpheus saying that.)

Venturing into the world of software development, I quickly realized that, much like the film industry, the importance of networking and soft skills are indispensable in every facet of life, especially in this field. After spending time learning in many spaces on X and discussing the topic, I decided to speak on it from my perspective.

Networking

In the film industry, networking is a pillar of success. It isn't just about who you know, but how effectively you can leverage those connections.

Little known fact, I never had a resume in the film industry. Want to know why? NETWORKING! My network kept me consistently at work. We would “show hop,” as it was called, meaning as one production was ending I’d already have the next lined up and wrap and run.

Transitioning into software development, I discovered that the power of networking remained constant. In the digital landscape, platforms like X have become virtual stages where developers, enthusiasts, and all sorts of tech professionals can connect.

Those (such as myself) going through the amazing 100Devs Cohort were instructed TO Network. As I already am very comfortable with doing so, I took it to task.

Twitter became my networking hub. Engaging in conversations, sharing insights, and participating in industry-related discussions allowed me to establish myself. I also found that community building is a huge catalyst for me.

My classmate Jacob and I created a weekly space named Tech Commute (the pod is here!) for people to meet and grow together. This has continued to be a wonderful tool for creating relationships with fellow community members. Not just for me but for others. One of the best things about it is giving OTHERS the same opportunities.

Beyond the virtual space, I want to start attending conferences and meetups. Just as film festivals serve as a hub for filmmakers, these events are a gateway to a network of developers, mentors, and potential employers.

The connections made are not just about exchanging business cards. They’re about building relationships that transcend the personal and professional world. I am currently scheduled to attend TWO conferences in 2024, and couldn't be more excited.

Soft Skills

In both the film industry and software development, technical skills serve as the foundation. However, it's the soft skills that elevate one's capabilities from proficient to exceptional.

Here is a great article on why soft skills are more important than hard skills. The ability to communicate ideas effectively, collaborate seamlessly, and adapt to evolving landscapes is the invisible thread stitching together success stories.

As a filmmaker, sharing a vision with a diverse team requires not only a mastery of the craft but also the ability to empathize, articulate, and negotiate. There were countless times a day when things would change, and dozens of very differently-minded people had to be able to work together efficiently and effectively.

My ability to do these things well over time led me to always be able to finish our productions on time and almost always at budget or less. This set of soft skills, finely tuned in the film industry, proved to be my secret weapon. As I transitioned into coding languages and algorithms, I found that these interpersonal abilities were not only transferable but also foundational.

In the realm of software development, where teamwork is paramount, these soft skills can take center stage. Collaborative coding, agile methodologies, and effective communication become the key. The ability to explain complex technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders, negotiate project timelines, and adapt to feedback can be differentiators in a competitive landscape.

The transition from film to software development revealed a symbiotic relationship between networking and soft skills. While networking opens doors, soft skills serve as the way to keep them ajar. Building a strong network not only facilitates job opportunities but also provides a platform to showcase the proficiency of one's soft skills.

A well-crafted tweet or a thoughtful comment not only sparks conversations but also demonstrates effective communication. Engaging in open-source projects, collaborative coding, or participating in forums showcases the ability to work within a team. These actions not only strengthen your network but also broadcast your soft skills to a wider audience.

Conclusions

As I reflect on my journey from the world of film to software development, the importance of networking and soft skills emerges as a common thread. In both arenas, success is not solely determined by technical prowess but by the ability to connect, communicate, and collaborate.

Another key factor is just being myself. The Jason you see online is almost identical to the one you’d see if we were to meet each other at the grocery store. I think overall people relate easier and get value from people who do this.

This is where I think transparency and intention in our path become important. People don’t want to interact with a**holes. SOOO…Don’t be one. So much can just come from being kind. A good friend of mine also has a wonderful acronym for some of the key points (or he claims it is anyway):

Empathetic

And

General

Lifelong

Essential

Skills

Whether on sets of a film or the virtual landscapes of the software development community, networking and soft skills remain the pillars of professional growth. As I continue to evolve in my new narrative, I am reminded that the stories we craft extend beyond the screen or code editor – they are narratives of connection, collaboration, and the seamless fusion of art and technology.

Hey You

Embarking on a journey into software development? Great, make sure you focus on networking and soft skills. Embrace connections, whether virtual or in person, by exploring platforms like X, attending conferences, and participating in meetups to expand and deepen your network.

Recognize the critical role of soft skills as the unseen engine driving success in all aspects of life. In your pursuit of professional and personal growth, prioritize authenticity and kindness.

Stay true to yourself, engage transparently, and approach your journey with intention. Our narratives extend beyond professional domains—they tell stories of connection, collaboration, and the seamless fusion of art and technology.

Along the way feel free to follow my journey from film to code by following me here on hashnode or on Twitter(will ALWAYS be Twitter to me).

Connect with me on X and LinkedIn

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