Virtual Meetings: Make Them Better with Science

How virtual meetings bend our brains (and how to make them good bends)

Some science for the curious

Virtual meetings – love them or hate them – they’re widely used and here to stay. Uptake is very high, driven by the pandemic and ongoing Work From Home culture (with lively debate right now regarding that for government).

With such pervasive usage the scene has been set for scientific investigation into how we interact with and are affected by this meeting type – which could be applied to improve our use of virtual meetings.

Here are some starters for 10 that I found interesting, and I hope you will too:

This article states that 72% of us use virtual backgrounds (for various interesting reasons – to impress others, to show alignment with them etc – fascinating in itself), and that the background matters to how tired you and others on the call may become (Virtual Fatigue). The finding is you’re best using either the blur effect or a static nature image – give it a try.
Mirror mirror on the wall….This article finds that looking at images of ourselves as we speak is not great when we are listening to others, but is great when we’re the one speaking (no recommendation there, but I’m off to see if I can find a Teams config that will only show me myself when I’m speaking).
If you’ve ever felt a little sleepy on a virtual meeting – here’s an explanationThis article that compares drowsiness and cognitive performance between in-person and virtual meetings – key finding including that under-stimulation on virtual meetings is a key driver of drowsiness and decreased cognitive performance AND is mitigated by high workplace engagement (so organisations – get those engagement ratings up !!).
Your teams can be in the zone on virtual meetingsThis article explains how/why the virtual meeting experience can create a state of flow (a benefit that surprised me) and the importance of a culture of authentic emotions/culture to that

17 October 2024 Bryan Teh General, IT, Recruitment, Science Comments Off

What is a Good Work Culture? (2024)

What is a Good Work Culture in 2024?

Creating a good work culture is essential for any organization, but what exactly does that entail? In the tech industry, a good culture is not just about having the latest tools or offering great perks #pizzaparty. It’s about fostering an environment where people thrive, collaborate, and innovate together.

Key soft skills like adaptability, collaboration, and emotional intelligence (EQ) play a pivotal role in building this kind of culture. These skills not only enhance individual performance but also contribute to a cohesive, positive workplace where everyone feels valued.

Adaptability: The Foundation of Growth

Why It Matters:
In the tech industry, change is the only constant. New technologies emerge, methodologies evolve, and business needs shift rapidly. To keep up, IT professionals must be adaptable, embracing new challenges and learning opportunities. This flexibility allows teams to pivot quickly and effectively, ensuring that they remain competitive and innovative.

Research:
Ernst & Young (2021) emphasizes that adaptability is a key skill needed in a world where we don’t know what tomorrow’s challenges will bring. Staying relevant especially in the tech industry means being open to continuous learning and being ready to adjust to new circumstances. This adaptability not only supports personal growth but also strengthens the team, fostering a culture that is resilient and forward-thinking.

Collaboration: The Power of Teamwork

Why It Matters:
No one achieves success alone, especially in IT. Whether it’s developing software, managing networks, or implementing security protocols, these tasks require the collective efforts of a team. Collaboration is key to ensuring that all team members are aligned and working towards the same goal. When people collaborate effectively, they leverage each other’s strengths, leading to better outcomes and a more enjoyable work experience.

Research:
According to Collis (2023), CFO at Moneypenny and Forbes Councils Member, teamwork culture is about creating a sense of unity while also celebrating people’s differences. As individuals we are unique, and we bring a whole set of skills, experiences, backgrounds and perspectives with that. When you bring these together with a common purpose or goal, the whole is greater than the sum of its parts.

This collaborative spirit also contributes to a positive work culture, where knowledge is shared freely, and everyone feels part of something bigger.

Emotional Intelligence (EQ): The Heart of a Positive Culture

Why It Matters:
Emotional intelligence is the ability to understand and manage your own emotions, as well as those of others. In the workplace, high EQ leads to better communication, stronger relationships, and a more supportive environment. For IT professionals, who often work under pressure, maintaining emotional balance and understanding team dynamics is crucial for sustaining a positive and productive work culture.

Research:
According to Price (2023), CEO at BrightHR and Forbes Councils Member, emotionally intelligent employees tend to be better communicators, and good communication is key to any strong workforce. High EQ helps create a culture of empathy and mutual respect, where team members feel understood and valued. This, in turn, leads to higher job satisfaction and better overall performance.

Conclusion: The Essence of a Good Work Culture

A good work culture is one where adaptability, collaboration, and emotional intelligence are not just encouraged but are integral to how the team operates. When everyone in the organization, from the leadership to the newest recruit, embodies these qualities, the result is a workplace where people feel valued, supported, and motivated to do their best work.

Creating such a culture is a collective effort — it takes two to tango. But when it happens, the benefits are clear: increased innovation, better team performance, and a more satisfying work experience for everyone involved.

Lastly, when joining a new company, don’t discount the power that your own energy and attitude can have over the culture. Every individual must take accountability for their influence in the workplace. And with the key qualities mentioned above, hopefully you can operate with increased awareness when building and maintaining a positive work culture.

2 September 2024 Bryan Teh Career Advice, General, IT Comments Off

The Evolution of Tech Recruitment

In the fast-paced world of technology, where innovation and agility are paramount, are traditional interview processes still effective? This month’s article delves into whether conventional hiring methods are outdated and explores alternative approaches that might better serve tech companies in identifying top talent.

The Pitfalls of Traditional Interviews

Bias and Subjectivity: Despite best efforts, traditional interviews often suffer from unconscious biases, leading to decisions based on subjective criteria rather than objective skills.
Skill Mismatch: Traditional interviews may not accurately assess a candidate’s technical abilities or problem-solving skills, often focusing more on how well candidates can talk about their experience rather than demonstrate it.
Time-Consuming and Inefficient: The lengthy process of scheduling, conducting, and evaluating interviews can slow down the hiring process, causing companies to miss out on top talent who might accept offers elsewhere.

Emerging Alternatives

Technical Assessments and Coding Challenges: Many companies are now using coding challenges and technical assessments to evaluate candidates’ real-world skills. These tools provide a more objective measure of a candidate’s ability to perform the job.
Project-Based Interviews: Instead of traditional Q&A sessions, candidates are given real-world problems to solve, mirroring the tasks they would encounter on the job. This method not only assesses technical skills but also problem-solving abilities and creativity.
AI and Data-Driven Hiring Tools: Artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms can help screen resumes, match candidates to roles based on skills and experience, and even conduct initial assessments, reducing bias and increasing efficiency.

Success Stories with Non-Traditional Hiring Methods

Use Case A: By implementing project-based interviews, Company A reduced their hiring time by 40% and reported a 30% increase in employee retention.
Use Case B: Using AI-driven recruitment tools, Company B improved the diversity of their hires by 25%, showcasing a more inclusive hiring process.

The Human Touch: Balancing Technology and Personal Interaction

While these innovative methods offer numerous benefits, it’s crucial to maintain a balance. As highlighted in a previous Techspace article by Lesha, personal interaction still plays a vital role in assessing cultural fit and interpersonal skills. The key is to integrate these new tools to enhance, not replace, human judgment.

Techspace Consulting’s Approach

At Techspace Consulting, we pride ourselves on being New Zealand’s top tech recruiters. We understand the importance of evolving with the industry. By embracing new methods such as technical assessments, project-based interviews, and AI-driven tools, we streamline our hiring process, reduce bias, and ultimately attract and retain top talent for our clients.

We invite hiring managers and tech recruiters to share their thoughts and experiences. How has your organization adapted to the changing landscape of tech recruitment?

24 June 2024 Bryan Teh General, IT, Recruitment Comments Off

Career Progress: Insights from a Senior Recruiter in 2024

From Graduation to First Job

The journey often starts with a mix of excitement and uncertainty for graduates entering the professional world. Fresh out of university, equipped with theoretical knowledge but limited practical experience, they often rely on recruiters to bridge the gap between academia and industry. This transition is a responsibility that I am very passionate about.
In recruitment, identifying potential extends beyond academic achievements. It involves recognizing soft skills, cultural fit, and drive, factors that are not always evident on paper.

According to LinkedIn’s Global Talent Trends report, 92% of talent professionals believe that soft skills are equally or more important to hire for than hard skills. My experience confirms that a candidate’s passion and eagerness can be more decisive than their academic results or the university they attended.

Securing that first job is a crucial milestone. It serves as the foundation upon which a career is built. Over the years, I have placed a number of graduates into roles where they could thrive. Each placement is a deliberate match that aligns the graduate’s aspirations with the organization’s culture and needs.

LinkedIn Global Talent Trends Report

Monitoring Progress: A Recruiter’s Satisfaction

The true satisfaction for a recruiter comes from observing the long-term progress of those they’ve placed. LinkedIn provides a platform to track these careers, from initial promotions to leadership roles. Each update on their achievements underscores the impact of our initial placement decisions.

Receiving messages from former candidates expressing their gratitude is one of the most rewarding aspects of my job. Their varied success stories – from climbing the corporate ladder to starting new ventures – highlight the importance of our work as recruiters and the significant impact we can have on individuals’ lives. Research by the Forbes (2023) supports the notion that mentorship can significantly influence career success and satisfaction

The Role of LinkedIn in Career Development

LinkedIn has been an invaluable tool in this process. It’s not just a networking platform but a living record of career progression and achievements. Through LinkedIn, I maintain connections, offer advice, and celebrate the successes of those I’ve helped. The platform’s importance is clear, with 95% of recruiters using LinkedIn to evaluate candidates during the hiring process.

Conclusion

Looking ahead, I remain committed to the principles that have guided my career. Recruitment is not just about filling positions; it’s about nurturing potential and fostering long-term growth. The success stories and career progressions I’ve witnessed inspire me to continue seeking the best in people and contributing to their professional journeys.

The pride of being a recruiter lies in the careers that develop from the opportunities provided. Watching graduates progress, achieve success, and knowing that you played a part in their journey is a unique reward. In recruitment, we are not just matchmakers; we are facilitators of professional growth and success.

30 May 2024 Bryan Teh Career Advice, General, Recruitment Comments Off

Empowering Success: The Impact of Mentorship in Tech

In the fast-paced and ever-evolving landscape of the technology industry, the importance of mentorship cannot be overstated. Working at the forefront of this dynamic sector, I have witnessed firsthand the transformative power of mentorship on career development. The guidance, wisdom, and support provided by a mentor can significantly impact an individual’s trajectory, fostering growth, and success in the tech space (pardon the pun).

Mentorship’s Role in Tech:

Technology, with its rapid advancements and complexities, often presents challenges for professionals at various stages of their careers. For those entering the industry, the technology learning curve can be steep, while seasoned professionals might encounter hurdles when transitioning into leadership roles. A mentor, with their wealth of experience and insights, serves as a guiding beacon through these challenges.

Accelerating Skill Development:

A mentor can also play a pivotal role in accelerating skill development by offering insights into emerging trends, suggesting relevant courses or resources, and even providing hands-on learning opportunities. This direct transfer of knowledge and expertise can significantly shorten the learning curve for individuals looking to excel in their roles or transition into new domains within the tech sector.

Personalized Guidance and Soft Skills Enhancement:

But it’s not just the technical learnings they share; one of the greatest benefits of mentorship lies in the personalized guidance it offers. Unlike formal education or training programs, mentorship provides tailored advice specific to an individual’s goals, strengths, and areas needing improvement or enhancement. By sharing experiences, offering advice, and providing constructive feedback, mentors can broaden perspectives and help mentees make informed decisions in their career paths.

Building Soft Skills and Inclusivity:

A mentor can also aid in the development of soft skills crucial for success in the technology industry. From leadership abilities to effective communication and problem-solving, a mentorship relationship can help individuals refine these skills. With an added bonus, mentors often open doors to valuable networks and connections, providing mentees with opportunities for career advancement, introductions to industry influencers, and access to a broader professional community.

Mentorship for Diversity and Inclusion:

Mentorship can play a pivotal role in fostering diversity by offering guidance and support to underrepresented groups in the technology field. By actively engaging in mentorship programs and supporting a diverse range of mentees, senior leaders can contribute significantly to creating a more inclusive and innovative industry.

Conclusion:

Mentorship stands as a cornerstone for career development within the technology sector. Immersed in this industry, I’ve personally experienced and witnessed the transformative impact it can have on individuals looking to thrive in this fast-paced industry. By fostering mentorship relationships and actively engaging in guiding the next generation of talent, we not only contribute to individual growth but also to the continued innovation and evolution of the tech landscape as a whole.

Through our Techspace career trajectory surveys, we have uncovered the need and the want for a mentorship programme in the technology sector and have partnered with The New Zealand Coaching & Mentoring Centre to offer a mentorship programme to allow mentors to give back; with your knowledge and experience, or as a mentee; to guide you on the right path to success.

If this is of interest and would like to be considered, please send us an email or contact Stephen Barrell to set up a time to chat through the details.

26 November 2023 Bryan Teh Career Advice, General, IT Comments Off

Mastering: Top 5 Interview Questions in Tech (2023)

Preparing for a tech interview can be a nerve-wracking experience. Whether you’re eyeing IT jobs in Auckland, Wellington, or anywhere in New Zealand, acing that interview is your ticket to the tech career of your dreams. As a tech recruitment specialist with years of industry experience, I want to share the top five interview questions that can make all the difference in landing your dream role.

“Can You Share a Complex Problem You’ve Solved Recently?”

Tech interviews are all about showcasing your skills, and this question is a prime opportunity to do just that. Explain the technical aspects of the problem and how you tackled it, demonstrating your problem-solving abilities and creativity. For example, you could talk about a recent project where you improved an e-commerce website’s load time, enhancing user experience and boosting conversions.

“How Do You Stay Updated with the Latest Tech Trends?”

In the fast-paced world of tech, staying up-to-date is crucial. Interviewers want to know that you’re committed to continuous learning. For instance, you might mention how you stay informed about trends by participating in online communities like GitHub, completing courses on platforms like Coursera, and attending tech conferences. This shows your dedication to growth.

“Describe a Project Where You Collaborated Across Multiple Tech Stacks.”

Tech roles today often involve working with diverse tech stacks. Interviewers want to know you can adapt. You could discuss a recent project where you collaborated with front-end developers using React, while the back end was powered by Python and Django. Explain how you effectively managed the interplay of different technologies, highlighting your versatility, adaptability, and teamwork skills, which IT employers in NZ highly value.

“Can You Share an Example of a Time When You Faced a Technical Challenge Without a Clear Solution?”

Tech jobs are all about problem-solving. Be prepared to talk about a time when you encountered a tricky issue with no straightforward answer. For instance, you might share a situation where a critical database server crashed, and there was no recent backup. Describe your approach, which could involve data recovery and server restoration techniques, demonstrating your resilience and innovation—qualities that can set you apart when pursuing IT jobs in NZ.

“What Motivates You to Pursue a Career in Tech?”

This question goes beyond technical skills; it’s about your passion. Employers want to know what drives you. Whether it’s the desire to make a difference in tech by developing sustainable solutions, solve real-world problems with data-driven insights, or simply a love for coding and creating, be ready to share your motivations. This is an opportunity to show you’re not just in it for a job but for a meaningful career.

Conclusion

When preparing for IT jobs, these top five interview questions should be in your toolkit. They’re not just about impressing the interviewer; they’re about showcasing your skills, adaptability, problem-solving abilities, and unwavering passion for tech.

So, candidates, remember these questions, and use them as a guide to ace your next tech interview. Your dream IT job in Auckland, Wellington, or anywhere in New Zealand might be just around the corner.

Ready to take the next step in your tech career? Reach out to Techspace today, and let’s make your dream IT job a reality!

Boost Your Tech Interview Success with Personalised Support

In this final section, we extend an exclusive offer to all tech job seekers in Auckland, Wellington, and throughout NZ. At Techspace, we’re not just another recruitment agency. We’re your dedicated partners in tech career success.

Our experienced team doesn’t just offer CV and interview advice – we’re here to help you master those tough tech questions!

Reach out to us for practice sessions and tailored answers. Your dream tech career is just a message away!

23 October 2023 Alex Smith Career Advice, General, IT, Recruitment Comments Off