Can you share a little bit about your educational background and what opportunities impacted your tech career?
I studied Computer Science, which can be seen as the traditional course. I actually did not do any coding before university.
The best thing I did in my career was participating in a year-long placement. High-quality experience on my CV before graduating made me stand out from other candidates. In addition, completing it at a top software company in SAP allowed me to use my technical knowledge in a corporate environment. The skills you learn at university are beneficial but using them in a working setting is very different.
What would you like to learn more about?
I want to explore cloud and machine learning further. I believe this is the biggest thing in technology currently. I’m interested in learning more about how machine learning can be used in various areas of our lives. For example, the technology around Amazon Echo and Google Dot devices is fascinating, and I would love to learn more about how they work.
Related: How to Become a Machine Learning Engineer
What led you to pursue a career in tech?
I started with an interest in gaming at a young age and was curious about the technology behind the scenes. Then, I went into web and mobile applications. I was curious about how apps worked and intrigued by how easy it was to create your own. I believe the main reason for my early passion for tech was its ability for users to be creative and express themselves with it. From age 12, I remember working on a mobile application where users could view comedic images and videos in secondary school. I always enjoyed making people laugh and technology brought that to life.
How has your skillset evolved over the course of your career?
Over time I have become more confident and excellent in my coding ability. I started Computer Science with a general interest in technology but became more interested in the programming side.
Do you specialise in one area?
Yes, I specialise in back-end development. I realised I was interested in algorithms and how systems work behind the scenes, making this area the best fit for me.
Is your new role different from previous ones?
I left a high-profile bank for an internet publishing/insurance company. My previous role was old-fashioned, less flexible, and had little room for progression. My new role is flexible and offers a transparent route for progression.
Related: How to Maximize your Job Offer as a Remote Engineer
What are some of the things you’re most excited about in your new role/company?
I’m thrilled about the opportunity to learn from a range of different people. I’m looking forward to the chance to grow and develop myself on a personal level too.
What was your job search experience like before you joined Hired?
It was slow-paced and challenging to navigate. There were many unknowns and it was difficult to communicate with employers. I always felt out of the loop and did not know whether I would hear back.
What would you tell someone curious about Hired?
I would recommend it to anyone looking for a new role. With Hired, you will feel confident speaking to companies as they approach you first.
Related: Want More Interviews and Better Matches? 5 Key Tips!
Any general advice you’d like to give other tech professionals?
The best thing I would say is to know your worth. If you are confident in your abilities, don’t settle for anything less than your expectations. Remember, the employer has to impress you as well. A job is a transaction, not a favour.
Congrats on the job, Simon! Interested in landing a great role in the UK like Simon did? Complete your free profile on Hired today!
About Compare The Market
Compare The Market is a price comparison website and provides customers with an easy way to make the right choice on a wide range of products including motor, home, life and energy. Founded in 2005, Compare the Market has between 501-1000 employees and is headquartered in London.
Tech Stack
JavaScript, Node.js, MongoDB, AWS, C#, .NET, iOS, Android, Docker, Git, HTML, CSS, Scala, Java, Kafka, Kubernetes, Python, React, Redux, Big Data
Benefits
Life/disability insurance, work-from-home flexibility, volunteer time off, flexible working hours, employee discount programs, and more.
Source: Talent Acquisition - hired.com
