We 
Open Source
A community education resource
Tech career growth: Networking, AI tools, and the power of community
Use these career tips to grow your tech network and stand out.
Taylor Desseyn, VP of Global Development at Torc, sat down with the All Things Open team to share insights on building developer communities, the power of networking, and leveraging AI tools. With over a decade in tech recruiting, Taylor recognized the need to support engineers beyond job placements. His journey from recruiter to community leader highlights the importance of trust and genuine engagement in fostering meaningful connections within the developer space.
A key part of Taylor’s work revolves around making job searches more accessible. Reflecting on his early career struggles, he now dedicates his time to helping developers navigate their careers. His podcast, Guidance Counselor 2.0, started as a small LinkedIn initiative but grew into a platform where industry leaders and newcomers share career lessons. Through this, he provides job seekers with real-world insights tailored to different backgrounds and experiences.
Taylor also highlights how AI tools can streamline work. He shares his experiences with Plaud, a compact recording device for transcribing meetings, and Spinach AI, a tool that automates meeting notes. These tools save time, enhance productivity, and improve knowledge sharing within teams. By embracing technology like this, professionals can focus more on building relationships and making an impact.
Read more: Best practices for more productive meetings
For those attending conferences, Taylor emphasizes the importance of networking and content creation. He encourages developers to engage with others, document key takeaways, and share insights online. By consistently posting learnings on platforms like LinkedIn, attendees can stand out in the job market and create new opportunities for themselves.
Key takeaways
- Building trust is key in developer communities. Developers value authenticity and connection over sales-driven interactions. Investing in relationships fosters a stronger and more engaged network.
- AI can enhance productivity. Tools like Plaud and Spinach AI simplify documentation and help professionals focus on meaningful work.
- Networking and sharing knowledge open doors. Engaging at events and documenting experiences online can lead to unexpected career opportunities.
Conclusion
Taylor’s journey from recruiter to community leader highlight the power of persistence, adaptability, and giving back. By fostering connections, leveraging AI, and actively engaging with the developer community, he demonstrates how small actions can lead to lasting impact. His advice is simple: Network, document your learning, and consistently share your journey—because those who put themselves out there create the best opportunities for growth.
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The opinions expressed on this website are those of each author, not of the author's employer or All Things Open/We Love Open Source.
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