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WeAreDevelopers LIVE • Mar 13, 2024

What makes a great Software Engineer? Challenging our Assumptions Instead of Talking about Imposter Syndrome

Irina Anastasiu

Bad software isn't a technical problem; it's a communication problem. Stop treating imposter syndrome as an individual failing and start valuing empathy as a core engineering skill.

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#1 about 3 min

Exploring the archetype of a good software engineer

Understanding the traits of a great software engineer requires looking beyond traditional coding skills.

#2 about 5 min

How the geek stereotype fuels imposter syndrome

The persistence of the obsessed coding introvert archetype makes feeling a sense of belonging difficult for others.

#3 about 3 min

Broadening the definition of technical problem solving

Valuing communication and conceptualization equally to purely technical abilities improves diversity and product quality.

#4 about 6 min

Navigating real world software architecture collaboration

Bad software is often a communication problem that requires defining actual business needs before implementation.

#5 about 3 min

Exploring Basadur problem solving styles and archetypes

Individuals possess distinct preferences for gaining and utilizing knowledge across four problem-solving quadrants.

#6 about 5 min

Applying problem solving archetypes to engineering teams

Combining different working styles like generators and optimizers creates more robust and well-rounded software solutions.

#7 about 4 min

Redefining technical competence beyond traditional framework trivia

True technical capability can be demonstrated by inventing dynamic concepts rather than relying on memorized jargon.

#8 about 10 min

Mapping team roles to problem solving archetypes

Plotting individual roles onto problem-solving quadrants helps visualize and appreciate cognitive diversity in the workplace.

#9 about 18 min

Reflecting on engineering motivations and undervalued strengths

Critical non-technical skills like empathy and communication often drive success but remain frequently overlooked in technical environments.

#10 about 3 min

Fostering inclusivity and networking for women in tech

Company initiatives and dedicated communities play a crucial role in supporting and retaining female engineers.

Matching moments

4:30 min

Overcoming engineered biases to achieve equal technology representation

Brenda Romero Brenda Romero · LIVE

1:27 min

Debunking the stereotype of the introverted software engineer

Arsenii Sorokin Arsenii Sorokin +1 · WWC 2025

1:23 min

Mitigating groupthink through diverse and inclusive software engineering teams

Prathyusha Charagondla · LIVE

1:47 min

Exploring the impact of diverse teams on engineering outcomes

1:47 min

Overcoming imposter syndrome without immediate representation in tech communities

Anna Leushchenko Anna Leushchenko · LIVE

4:01 min

Reframing imposter syndrome and cognitive dissonance in tech

Jo Franchetti Jo Franchetti · LIVE

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