---

Takeaways:

• The newsletter will take a break for at least4 weeks to allow for recharging and reevaluation of content direction.

• Future posts will focus on quality over quantity, with no strict weekly schedule.

• Potential new content formats include AI tools, light reflections, podcasts, and community engagement through Q&A and live discussions.

Links:

• High Growth Engineer Substack Chat

• Emotions: A Code Book on Software Design

• How I Prepared for a Staff Data Engineer Interview at Airbnb* A Crash Course On Using AI To Save Time

---

Takeaways:

• Apply the MECE (Mutually Exclusive, Collectively Exhaustive) principle to enhance structured problem-solving and communication skills in engineering.

• In interviews, present your thought process clearly: outline possible solutions first, then justify your choice to demonstrate analytical thinking.

• Use MECE for diagnosing issues to streamline investigations – categorize potential root causes systematically to avoid overlaps and ensure comprehensive coverage.

• Structure incident updates using MECE to keep stakeholders informed and engaged, making it clear what has been ruled out and what remains to be checked.

• Explain complex processes or systems effectively by starting with high-level overviews before delving into details, organized under the MECE framework.

• During planning, frame proposals with MECE by stating goals, outlining potential options, and presenting a clear recommendation based on comparative analysis.

---

Links:

• The one framework every engineer should know

• Production-Ready Backend Templates

• The Operator’s Handbook

For the past month, I’ve been using a tool I avoided for a really long time: Raycast. It has transformed my workflow, saving me27 hours a week.Here are seven use cases that significantly boost productivity:

1. Emoji Picker: Fast and reliable compared to the native MacOS option. Search for emojis via natural language and pin your most-used ones.

2. Instant AI Chat: Access AI help directly from the command bar for quick coding or documentation queries without opening a new tab.

3. AI Presets: Store and quickly access useful AI-generated prompts for tasks like writing a PRD or transforming a transcript into a script.

4. Text Expanders: Automate repetitive typing tasks using snippets that expand into longer text. Control cursor placement and use template variables.

5. Quicklinks: Create keyboard shortcuts for frequently accessed URLs or tools to save time and clicks.

---

Takeaways:

• Install Raycast for productivity enhancement and to reclaim numerous hours per week.

• Utilize the Instant AI Chat for immediate answers to technical questions, saving research time.

• Leverage Text Expanders to reduce repetitive typing tasks effectively.

Links:

• Raycast Tool

• More about AI Presets

• Explore Text Expanders

---

Takeaways:

• Framing Techniques:

• Signposting: Break messages into sections to reduce cognitive load. Use phrases like “Action items,” “Next steps,” and “Recommendation” for clarity.

• Main Point, Context Below (MP-CB): Lead with the main message and provide context afterward for better engagement.

• Anticipate Objections: Address potential concerns proactively in communications.

• Delegation Framework (CEDAF):

• Comprehension: Ensure clarity in tasks given.

• Excitement: Motivate with positive outcomes.

• Derisk: Identify and mitigate potential risks.

• Align: Confirm understanding and readiness.

• Feedback Loop: Establish regular follow-ups to monitor progress.

• Influence Framework:

• QBQ (Question Behind the Question): Identify and address the underlying motives of questions posed by others to provide more relevant and insightful responses.

Links:

• Wes Kao’s Course on Executive Communication and Influence

• Wes Kao on LinkedIn

• Wes Kao’s Newsletter

5 Lessons from10+ Years as a Software Engineer1. Own Your Career: No one will drive your career for you. Take charge of your growth and visibility within the organization. - Action: Present tech talks, conduct workshops, and provide regular project updates.

1. Communication Over Intelligence: Trust and clear communication are more valuable than raw intelligence. Building trust through transparency can lead to better collaboration and understanding in projects.

2. Action: Be proactive with updates, engage with stakeholders, and communicate challenges early.

3. Reputation Matters Less Than Impact: Titles and past achievements don’t mean much in a new environment. Focus on proving your worth through results.

4. Action: Deliver high-quality work and adjust to new team dynamics to build trust.

5. Consistency Is Key: Staying consistent in your efforts is challenging but crucial for long-term success.

6. Action: Break tasks into manageable milestones and document key decisions to maintain progress and accountability.

7. Challenge Leadership with Respect: Speaking up against leadership decisions can be tough, but it’s necessary when you believe there’s a better solution.

8. Action: Address issues politely and support your claims with data and prototypes to have productive discussions.

---

Takeaways:

• Own your career and make your work visible through presentations and workshops.

• Build trust through transparency; communicate challenges and updates proactively.

• Prove your worth in new environments through results, not just by your title.

• Maintain consistency by breaking tasks down and documenting decisions.

• Challenge decisions respectfully using data and effective communication.

Links:

• Dare to Lead* The Curious Soul’s Corner* Upgrade to paid