86: Joan Palmiter Bajorek: Layoff Anxiety in Tech and Career Optionality

 The pervasive issue of layoff anxiety in the tech industry, particularly in the wake of COVID-19, overvaluation and the rise of AI. Dr. Joan Palmiter explores with me the importance of networking and personal branding as essential tools for job security and career advancement.

Are multiple income streams and optionality realistic to mitigate the fear of job loss? How does personal career development overlap with product management? The significance of networking and communication skills and the evolving field of AI and how to adapt to it.

takeaways

• 70% of job seekers find opportunities through personal connections.
• It's important to be open and generous in networking efforts.
• Finding personal goals is crucial; not everything is monetizable.
• Continuous learning and adaptation are vital in the tech landscape.

Sound Bites

• "Don't stay in one lane; connect two lanes."

Chapters

12:47 The Importance of Networking and Personal Branding

24:07 Exploring Optionality and Income Streams

26:10 Leveraging Product Management Skills in Diverse Fields

27:09 Finding Personal Goals: Money vs. Joy

28:31 The Importance of Passion in Career Success

30:34 Navigating Career Choices and Social Status

32:54 Building a Career Roadmap: Steps and Strategies

34:23 Overcoming Hurdles: Grit and Resilience in Career

37:18 The Art of Follow-Up: Networking and Communication Skills

41:00 Understanding AI: Getting Started in a New Field

46:28 The Future of AI: Learning and Adapting to Change 

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