Challenges of a Software Engineer: A True Story

Book Synopsis: Being a Software Engineer in India is considered by many as one of the most lucrative jobs which offers the “bragging rights” among friends and family members often resulting in praise, appreciation and even envy. But what is it like to be a Software Engineer in India? How can one become a Software Engineer? How can one become a Software Engineer even if one does not have a degree in IT? What are the various types of companies that exist today and how do they differ from each other? What are the factors to be considered while negotiating an offer? How to decide which is the best offer? Is it a lucrative contract? Or less lucrative full-time employment? Should you go with a well-established MNC or a start-up? How to negotiate with a HR? Once you are employed, what can you expect and how do you deal with it? What can you expect as a Contractor vs what can you expect as a full-time employee? What are some of the everyday challenges you can expect? Find out the answer to most of these questions as the author walks you through his journey from being a Mechanical Engineering graduate with no IT knowledge to someone who has now been in the industry for over a decade. The author faces several obstacles such as financial problems, family pressure, and least of all stiff competition from IT professionals and graduates to take up several roles in IT from Tech Support to Analyst to Software Developer to Tech Lead. The author finally narrates one entire experience of being a Senior Developer in a bank where he faces his stiffest challenge to date at that point in his career. A must read for any Software Engineer in India.