346: It’s All About People with Chuck Tomasi

In this week’s show, Phil talks to Chuck Tomasi who has worked in the IT industry for 40 years. His roles have included software developer, systems administrator, project manager and technical consultant to name but a few. He has a particular interest in integrating devices and systems to increase the value of the overall solution.

And he likes share what he has learned with the developer community through blogs, videos, live streams, podcasts and books.

Chuck talks to Phil about the importance of remembering people skills when growing your career. He also discusses the value of putting yourself out there in order to find opportunities.

 

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

 

TOP CAREER TIP

Never forget the value of people in the IT sector. Careers flourish when results are delivered, but also because relationships are nurtured.

 

WORST CAREER MOMENT

While preparing for a conference, Chuck was working with volunteers. There was a great need for perfection, but Chuck was let down by two volunteers, which almost threw the project into disarray.

 

CAREER HIGHLIGHT

At the most recent conference, Chuck got to MC the event and connected completely with most of the attendees.

 

THE FUTURE OF CAREERS IN I.T

There is a world of opportunity out there in the IT sector, and the chance to create meaningful, impactful products that can change lives for the better.

 

THE REVEAL

What first attracted you to a career in I.T.? – After a computer programming course in school

What’s the best career advice you received? – Trust is the ultimate currency

What’s the worst career advice you received? – It’s better to beg forgiveness than ask permission

What would you do if you started your career now? – Find a mentor and coach much sooner!

What are your current career objectives? – Creating and maintaining relationships inside and outside of the company

What’s your number one non-technical skill? – Being able to translate complex information for any audience.

How do you keep your own career energized? – Knowing that his work is positively impacting lives.

What do you do away from technology? – Podcasting, creating content, travelling and spending time with family

 

FINAL CAREER TIP

Even if you consider yourself to be introverted, make an effort to meet and greet people. Career opportunities almost always come from other people.

 

BEST MOMENTS

(2:56) – Chuck – “Putting your face out there helps recognition, and helps to build a community”

(3:50) – Chuck - “Careers are built on two things – results and relationships”

(4:22) – Chuck – “If you really want to be the hero then you need to listen to people and help them achieve their desired outcomes”

(13:06)– Chuck – “Computers and programming combine the best of logical thinking and creativity”

 

ABOUT THE HOST – PHIL BURGESS

Phil Burgess is an independent IT consultant who has spent the last 20 years helping organizations to design, develop, and implement software solutions.  Phil has always had an interest in helping others to develop and advance their careers.  And in 2017 Phil started the I.T. Career Energizer podcast to try to help as many people as possible to learn from the career advice and experiences of those that have been, and still are, on that same career journey.

 

CONTACT THE HOST – PHIL BURGESS

Phil can be contacted through the following Socia