My 2 cents on staying relevant in current job market!

Namaste andarki! Job market is brutal out there. I've 2 of my friends still looking for job and they were laid off 8 months ago. Not that there are less openings, there is also higher competition than ever and with AI in picture, you've one more strong competitor added. Based on my professional experience, I can say this- 1. Don't just rely on your core skills. Example: If you're a java developer, don't think that just by being an expert in Java will help you climb up the ladder. Complement this skill with other related skills in software. Like SQL, PowerBI for data analysis and stuff. Expand your horizons. Up and cross-skilling both are important! 2. Learn GenAI concepts. ChatGPT use cheyadam kadu, try to understand what happens in the backend. what happens once the prompt is sent by you? what is latency, how to reduce it? what are multi-modals ? Understand technology! Lot of stuff happening every week on GenAI, stay updated on the trends. 3. For non-technical folks like product managers (I'm one myself), at least have an understanding on application of technology if not implementation! 4. Networking is most important. Net work=Net worth. I know a friend who switched companies without giving even one interview, because the hiring manager was his previous boss and they had a good rapport! 5. Build side projects! Now a days, more companies are expecting startup exposure, proactive nature, problem solving skills. One way to get this is by building side projects. For tech folks- build projects, add GIT and demo links in resumes. Non-tech folks like me- explore no-code tools and build stuff. There are plenty of no-code tools to start. 6. Most important of all, market yourself. Introverts ki kashtame but tappadu boss. You don't need to glorify achievements but, at least talk about it openly on LinkedIn and in your company circles. Makes yourself visible to top management. Hardwork alone won't take you far in corporate. Own and share your victories, simple way how I do this is - I send a mail to my manager and higher ups informing them about the product release and congratulating the team. You do not need to do bootlicking, just be original and market yourself. Just remember, no matter even if you're MVP in your team, you can still be replaced when time comes. Layoffs are hard to process, build a career moat that ensures you remain employable, valuable, and in control—no matter what happens in the corporate world. Adi matteru, vellosta mari!