One moment you are a fresh graduate eager to prove your mettle in the corporate world and before you know it, you’ve spent over a decade navigating projects, promotions, slowdowns and shifting industry trends.
Looking back at my journey in the field of semiconductors and mobile technologies, from associate to lead engineer, I’ve realized that a career in tech isn’t just about technical expertise—it’s about adaptability.
If I could go back and give my younger self a roadmap, these are the 11 lessons I’d share.
Whether you’re just starting out or deep into your career, I hope these insights resonate with you.
1. The Learning Curve is Steep and Worth It
I still remember my first day of work. Excited, amazed, and perplexed all at the same time to be working in an ‘actual’ lab environment.
The initial year was overwhelming due to the multitude of tools and processes I had to learn to manage expectations. It became clear to me early in my career that successful professionals are those who actively pursue challenges without hesitation.
Learning effectively means continually moving forward without repeating the same errors.
Lesson: Embrace continuous learning to avoid becoming obsolete.
2. Impostor Syndrome is Normal-Don’t Let It Hold You Back
When working in rapidly changing fields such as tech, most people (including me) feel like their knowledge is insufficient.
But here’s the thing: even the experts are still learning. I’ve learnt to ask questions, seek mentorship and trust my ability to figure things out.
Lesson: You belong in the room. Keep your chin high and move on.
3. Communication & Business Awareness Set You Apart
Technical proficiency is important, yet your ability to convey ideas and demonstrate their business impact sets you apart.
Solving problems is vital but your real value lies in demonstrating how your work fits into the larger organisational mission.
Lesson: The best engineers are also effective communicators. Simplify your tasks and make sure your efforts help corporate goals.
4. Technical depth is important; so is being agile.
While mastering a domain is valuable, staying adaptable is equally useful. New technologies, tools and methodologies will keep emerging. Your relevance will be maintained by your capacity to pivot and learn fast.
Lesson: Don’t become too comfortable with just one skill set; stay curious and try new things out.
5. You won’t always get to work on interesting projects, and that’s fine.
Not every project will be revolutionary or groundbreaking. Some will be routine, some frustrating. Every job, however, imparts discipline, efficiency, or even knowledge of what you don’t want to do in the long term.
Lesson: Even if the job is not always exciting, value it.
6. Dealing with Different Bosses—From Mentors to Micromanagers
Not all managers are alike—some give you freedom, while others micromanage every detail.
Through time, I came to understand that adapting and managing upward was more important than resisting various management styles.
At times, you and your supervisor might disagree on a technical decision. Instead of allowing egos to collide, the appropriate way is to agree on what is best for the project.
Lesson : A good working relationship with your manager is not about always agreeing. It’s about clear communication, trust and professionalism.
7. Your Network is your Net worth
I used to believe that our work should speak for itself. While that’s partly true, building good relationships with colleagues, cross-functional teams and mentors makes a huge difference.
Be it for career growth, solving roadblocks or just making work more enjoyable, your network is indeed a valuable asset.
Lesson: Being helpful and collaborative isn’t just good ethics—it also makes an impact on career growth and workplace satisfaction.
8. Don’t become too comfortable—constantly explore opportunities.
Working in a product company with excellent perks and benefits made it easy to remain in my comfort zone.
In hindsight, I wish I had taken more chances, side projects, or perhaps other positions to expand my skills sooner.
Lesson: Comfort can be a career trap—keep pushing your limits and exploring.
9. You Are More Than Your Job Title
For years, I prided myself on being employed at the company I worked for.
But with time, I came to understand that being known for your abilities and skill set is more crucial than only where you work.
Your knowledge remains with you even as roles change and businesses develop.
Lesson: Concentrate on becoming an expert in your domain rather than merely a corporate employee.
10. Burnout is Real—Manage It Before It Controls You
There were times when I felt utterly drained out—constant deadlines, long working hours and no enthusiasm left whatsoever.
I kept ignoring it until I realized that burnout is not solely about being tired; it is about losing passion for your work.
I understood the importance of taking breaks, recognising work/life boundaries and prioritizing the most essential tasks when I felt burnt out.
Lesson: It’s okay to normalise taking a step back before it gets worse.
11. Job Security is an Illusion—Always Be Prepared
The tech industry is volatile and unpredictable; business priorities change, products get shelved, and companies reorganise.
Even the best performers can sometimes be in limbo! So, it is always helpful to update your skill set, network effectively and keep looking for new opportunities.
Lesson: Career stability comes from being adaptable and proactive. Stay open to change, as learning never really stops.
Closing Thoughts: Looking Ahead
In this past decade, I’ve experienced a fair share of exciting wins, challenges, and hard lessons learnt.
While I might have approached some things differently, I am grateful for the journey so far and excited for the future.
I am actively working to expand my skillset, explore new trends, and prepare myself for the next chapter of this evolving journey.
What is something you’ve learnt in your own tech career? Share it below in the comments!
