Side Hustle

Side gigs offer a valuable opportunity to diversify income generation and explore passions outside of your main career path. They allow you to pursue interests on your own schedule, whether it's freelancing, creating content, or offering services. Some of my favorite side hustles if you want to earn an extra buck

1. Consulting: Offer your expertise to small businesses or startups in need of technical guidance or project management assistance. You can market your services on platforms like Upwork or Toptal.
2. Online Courses: Develop and sell online courses or tutorials on software development, leadership, or project management. Platforms like Udemy or Coursera are popular for hosting such courses.
3. Freelance Development: Take on freelance software development projects, either independently or through platforms like Upwork or Topta or Fiverr. Another one which is easy to do is use Canva to create your own design, use Printify to put that design on a product of choice and use Etsy to sell that item.
4. Mentoring/Coaching: Offer coaching or mentoring services to aspiring software engineers or tech professionals looking to advance in their careers. You can advertise your services on platforms like LinkedIn or Coach.me.
5. Market Research: Sites like Secret Shopper where you can be a Mystery Shopper for businesses in your area. Secret Shopper
6. Podcasting: Host a podcast discussing topics related to software development, leadership, or the tech industry, and monetize through sponsorships or listener support. Platforms like Anchor make it easy to start and distribute your podcast

Professional Associations

 Joining professional affiliations can greatly enhance your career as a software development manager by providing networking opportunities, professional development, and the chance to contribute to the community. Here are some notable affiliations and organizations that can help you grow in your career and contribute to the community:

Diversity and Inclusion Focused Organizations

1. AfroTech:

   • A community and conference that brings together Black professionals in tech for networking, learning, and career advancement.

2. Blacks in Technology (BIT):

   • Dedicated to increasing the representation and participation of Black people in the tech industry through networking, professional development, and mentorship opportunities.

3. Code2040:

   • Works to activate, connect, and mobilize the largest racial equity community in tech to dismantle structural barriers preventing the full participation and leadership of Black and Latinx people in the innovation economy.

4. Fairygodboss:

   • A platform offering career connections, job reviews, and support for women in the workplace, focusing on workplace equality and career growth.

5. Girl Geek X:

   • Organizes events and provides a community for women in tech to connect, share experiences, and advance their careers through networking and professional development.

6. Girls Who Code:

   • Aims to close the gender gap in technology by teaching girls computing skills and fostering a passion for technology through clubs, programs, and events.

7. Half the Sky:

   • Focuses on empowering women globally and providing career opportunities and support networks, with an emphasis on gender equality and leadership.

8. HBCU 20x20:

   • Focuses on creating job opportunities for graduates of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) through career fairs, networking events, and partnerships with employers.

9. HSI Career Collaborative:

   • Supports career development for students and graduates from Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs) by providing resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities.

10. Latinas in Tech:

    • Aims to connect, support, and empower Latina women working in tech through events, mentorship programs, and community building.

11. Lesbians Who Tech:

    • A global community of LGBTQ women and non-binary individuals in tech, offering networking events, professional development opportunities, and a platform for visibility and advocacy.

12. Management Leadership for Tomorrow (MLT):

    • Equips African Americans, Latinos, and Native Americans with the skills, coaching, and connections to succeed in leadership roles, with programs focusing on career advancement and leadership development.

13. MyGwork:

    • A business community for LGBTQ+ professionals, students, and organizations, providing career development, networking opportunities, and promoting workplace equality.

14. National Action Council for Minorities in Engineering (NACME):

    • Provides scholarships and support to minority students in engineering and promotes diversity in the engineering profession through partnerships with educational institutions and corporations.

15. Nextplay Events:

    • Hosts networking events and career development opportunities specifically aimed at underrepresented professionals in tech, facilitating connections with industry leaders and peers.

 

Servant Leadership simplified

Servant leadership flips the script on how we usually think about being in charge. Instead of being the big boss calling the shots, it's more like being a teammate who's got everyone's back. It's all about empathy, staying humble, and making sure everyone on the team has what they need to shine. When you lead like this, it builds a environment of trust and teamwork. This approach fosters trust, collaboration, and a culture where everyone feels valued and empowered. People feel valued and ready to give their best. It's not about being the top dog; it's about lifting others up and making the whole crew stronger together.