career development Archives

189: Accelerate Promotion by Avoiding a Common Phase 2 Trap

by Max Ahumada | Oct 7, 2024 | Podcast

In this episode, I dive into the challenges of performance reviews and how to shift your approach to accelerate your next promotion.

I share a story about Daniel, an engineering leader who felt stuck in his career, frustrated by seeing his peers get promoted while he remained in the same role. The key insight? It’s not about constantly asking what gaps you need to close—it’s about demonstrating that you’re already performing at the next level.

By shifting the conversation with leadership from “what’s missing” to “what more can I contribute at the next level,” Daniel unlocked new growth in his career. I’ll walk you through how to make this same shift.

So press play and let’s chat… it’s time to elevate your promotion strategy!

185: Facing Economic Uncertainty and Fear in Your Career

by Max Ahumada | Sep 9, 2024 | Podcast

In this episode, I dive into a critical topic that’s affecting many engineering leaders today: facing uncertainty and fear.

Over the past few months, I’ve had countless conversations with professionals who are feeling the squeeze of an unpredictable economy, career challenges, and the pressure to succeed amidst growing doubts.

Whether it’s a looming layoff, a difficult job search, or navigating career pivots, the fear of the unknown is real. But here’s the truth: the greatest leaders are those who can create certainty in the face of uncertainty.

I’ll share actionable strategies to build confidence, shift your mindset, and turn challenges into opportunities for growth.

So press play and let’s chat…how do we find confidence when fear tries to take over?

181: Laid Off? You Must Do This First When Looking for Work

by Max Ahumada | Aug 12, 2024 | Podcast

In this episode, I tackle the tough topic of layoffs and what to do if you find yourself suddenly out of a job.

I share some hard truths about how layoffs can happen to even the most talented engineers and how it’s not a reflection of your worth or abilities.

You’ll learn why it’s crucial to avoid falling into the trap of endless resume polishing and instead focus on engaging your network and having real conversations that open doors.

I also offer practical advice on how to stay sharp and avoid the mindset pitfalls that can keep you stuck.

So press play and let’s chat… Let’s turn setbacks into comebacks!

169: The 4 Keys to Selling Your Ideas to Upper Management

by Max Ahumada | May 20, 2024 | Podcast

In this episode, I dive into the crucial skills of selling ideas effectively within the engineering field, a skill often overlooked but immensely valuable for career advancement.

We often have brilliant ideas that could significantly benefit our companies, but without the right influence and sales tactics, these ideas can falter at the execution stage. I share insights from a recent coaching session where we addressed these challenges, focusing on increasing both the intrinsic and perceived value of your proposals to upper management.

Drawing from real-world examples and sales principles, I outline strategic approaches to enhance your persuasiveness and ensure your innovative ideas get the support they deserve.

So press play and let’s chat about transforming your technical skills into influential salesmanship!

168: What Every Engineer Ought to Know About Middle Management with Jason Gallaugher | VP of Engineering

by Max Ahumada | May 13, 2024 | Podcast

In this episode, meet former Vice President of Engineering at VidYard and Principal Founder of ThreeNorth Consulting, Jason Gallaugher.

If you want to succeed in middle management, you must understand how to get leverage. You must change your approach. You must block the imposter voice and unsustainable work that leads to burnout.

Jason has spent over 20 years in engineering and technology, where his journey has taken him across scrappy startups, large companies and rocket ships.

His curiosity and energy have pushed him into roles ranging from software developer, product manager, P/L leader, all the way up to technology executive.

And he understands that being a manager can be the hardest job of them all.

Now, Jason is primarily a coach and advisor to executive teams. His energy comes from his love of people + technology, and using his skills to help technology organizations become High Leverage..

So press play and let’s chat… it’s time for YOU to master middle management!

161: How Asking an Obvious Question Made Me $30K in One Day

by Max Ahumada | Mar 25, 2024 | Podcast

In this episode, I recount a pivotal moment in my career journey as a lead engineer at Whirlpool Corporation, where I sought to elevate my performance rating.

Through a simple yet profound question to my boss, I unearthed the key to exceptional results: cross-functional impact.

By collaborating with colleagues and leveraging technology, I devised a solution that streamlined communication between departments, ultimately earning me a top performance rating and a significant bonus—all within eight hours of work.

This narrative underscores the power of asking the right questions and embracing innovative approaches to stand out in one’s career.

Join me as I delve into the transformative impact of asking obvious yet potent questions and how it can propel you towards unparalleled success.

So press play and let’s chat about unlocking extraordinary results through the art of questioning.

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