Career tips from a senior leader at Microsoft

At our autumn quarterly, we were lucky enough to be joined by Gemma Harrison, Principal Software Engineer at Microsoft, who led a session on career success for our consultants.

In the session she shared learnings from her varied career that started in development, before she moved to San Francisco to work as a TelCo Support Engineer, and then back to the UK to lead a team at Microsoft.​

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Throughout her 25 year career, Gemma has picked up some invaluable tips for anyone working in tech, whether you're just starting out or looking to take a step up to the next level, and she shared her top five with us:

1. Build your network

It plays a key part in your personal growth, ensuring you’re able to share when you’re struggling and helping you to continue learning throughout your career.

2. Be your authentic self

Only you can be yourself. Trying to be someone else simply doesn’t work in the long term, and technology is made stronger by diversity of thought and perspectives.

3. Use your superpowers

We’re all different and we each need to work out what your superpower is. Once you know what yours are, use them to help you progress and grow. It will prove invaluable to you on your career journey.

4. Back yourself

Make sure you’re on your own side. Imposter syndrome will only hold you back. Appreciate your strengths, truly listen to praise, trust your instincts and take on challenges when you get the opportunity to!

5. Find your own path

There is no right or wrong way to go through your career. Make sure you’re learning, growing and prioritising your needs, and you’ll ensure  you’re on the right track for you.

And that's a wrap on Gemma's top five tips for career success! Thank you for taking the time to share them with our future technology changemakers.

For more tips and insights on how to forge a successful career in tech, check out our insights section.