How To Thrive in IT

Dealing with... Working with... There's a difference when it comes to being in IT and having Project Managers involved.

In this episode, D.J. takes some drive-time to talk unfiltered about some of the good and bad experiences he's had with PMs over the years.

Hey, tickets are currently available for the UNFROZEN LIVE event!

https://l2l.thrive-it.com

You're always welcome to watch the VIDEO version and subscribe on YouTube!

YouTube feeds update FIRST for this podcast so we very much recommend you subscribe there ;-)

Did a seasoned Consulting Architect just tell you to go deliver Door Dash?

Yes.

Yes, he did.

Today we're talking benefits of getting out of the house with a purpose - how the context shift can help with stress, believe it or not.

Resource of the week: https://thrive-it.com/tryvsi

Enjoy a deep dive of Just Do THIS and then go grab your copy! https://it.justdothis.net

As always, we'd appreciate your leaving a review on your platform of choice!

Real talk about getting a job.

The reality is that the best time to think about it is when you currently have a job and can start networking. The second-best time is right now.

Resources:

eGInnovations Free Tier: https://thrive-it.com/egfree

Getting Hired via LinkedIn Episode: https://youtu.be/aXY3X8FDuH8

Learn more about Just Do THIS: https://it.justdothis.net/

Not easy to talk about - but here's a first big mistake when I was asked to lead a team for Citrix Consulting... and how I fixed it!

Prefer to watch a video version? https://youtu.be/Cf6GNMnX_t4

Resources:

1) Answer some questions - set your own price on D.J.'s book! https://care.thrive-it.com/do-you-know-your-ideal-it-career-path/

2) Interested in learning about coaching? Let's connect! https://thrive-it.com/MeetDJfor30

3) Get THE GOAL:

--Comic Graphic Novel: https://amzn.to/44PL91s

--Paperback: https://amzn.to/4nRLXvE

--Audible (DJ preferred): https://amzn.to/4eNQFq0

Note - I am an Amazon Affiliate and am compensated when you purchase using my links. It's a great way to support the channel so feel free to fill up your cart to maximize what we earn. You spend the same no matter what. Win+Win!

Navigating Rejection and Recognition in the IT World: A Personal Journey

In this special 'Coaching in the Car' edition of 'How to Thrive in IT,' D.J. tackles the emotionally charged topic of dealing with rejection and feeling ignored within the IT industry.

Sharing personal experiences, including his own repeated rejection from the Citrix Technology Professionals Program, the host delves into why contributions often go unnoticed.

He discusses the challenges of getting recognized in a noisy online world and offers strategies for making impactful contributions, such as solving common problems and finding advocates who can tell your story.

The episode also highlights the importance of reviews and feedback in validating one's work and encourages listeners to advocate for others to foster a more supportive professional environment.

Important Links:

• Connect with D.J. on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/djeshelman
• Resource of the Week: Download D.J.'s Risks and Recommendations Template Worksheet! https://thrive -it.com/risksheet
• Leave a Review of Just Do THIS! Goodreads: https://it.justdothis.net/good Amazon (even if you bought it directly from me): https://it.justdothis.net/USreview
• Don't have Just Do THIS yet? Here's the first part free: https://thrive-it.com/JDTPC1

00:00 Introduction: Thriving in IT

00:55 Addressing Emotional Challenges

01:33 Feeling Ignored and Rejected

03:33 Resource of the Week: Risks and Recommendations Spreadsheet

04:59 The Reality of Marketing in IT

07:21 Creating Impactful Content

10:51 Advocacy and Recognition

15:03 Conclusion and Call to Action

(stay tuned for a special song at the end of the episode!)

Escaping the IT Crab Bucket: 7 Tips for Overcoming Workplace Toxicity

In this episode of the 'How to Thrive in IT' podcast, host DJ Eshelman discusses the pervasive problem of toxicity in IT workplaces, which he likens to crabs in a bucket pulling each other down. DJ provides seven actionable tips to navigate and survive these environments, including setting boundaries, avoiding gossip, documenting incidents, keeping lines of communication open, and knowing when it’s time to consider leaving.

Additionally, DJ shares insights from his upcoming book, which is a novel set in a toxic IT department of a healthcare company. The episode offers practical advice on how to maintain professional well-being and thrive in challenging IT work environments.

Resource Links:

• Goal Setting Playlist (YouTube)
• Book a call with DJ
• Complete a Survey - Name Your Price on a Hardcover
• ButcherBox

00:00 Introduction to the Crab Bucket Problem

00:12 Welcome to the Podcast

01:01 Understanding Workplace Toxicity

02:46 Tips to Overcome Toxic Environments

05:53 The Importance of Boundaries

09:53 Building a Support System

13:16 Documenting Incidents

20:16 Keeping Communication Open

24:22 Self-Care and Health

27:32 Investing in Yourself

31:39 Resource of the Week: ButcherBox

33:39 Knowing When to Move On

39:21 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Enjoy the "Escape the Crab Bucket" song - download it here!

In this episode of 'How to Thrive in I.T.', host D.J. Eshelman delves into End User Computing (EUC) and its importance as an option for IT careers. Emphasizing that EUC is not ideal for career starters, he explains the necessary skills, including understanding technologies like Active Directory, hypervisors, cloud services, and networking. The episode includes insights on a forthcoming Virtual Expo and a promotional segment for D.J.'s 'Be A Citrix Hero' program. Real-world examples underscore the value of an integrated knowledge base in achieving success in EUC.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

01:23 Why EUC is Still Relevant

02:35 Skills Needed for Success in EUC

04:45 Real-World Examples and Tips

07:46 Resource of the Week: Virtual Expo

10:24 Episode Sponsor: Be A Citrix Hero

12:21 Final Thoughts and Takeaways

13:04 Conclusion and Call to Action

Not one... but TWO songs for this episode. Enjoy!

Thriving in I.T. at Any Age: Finding Fulfillment Before and Beyond 50

In this episode of 'How To Thrive In I.T.', host D.J. Eshelman tackles the anxiety many feel about continuing a career in I.T. as they age. He emphasizes the importance of aligning work with personal fulfillment and purpose rather than just surviving in a job. With insights into his own career progression and advice on mentoring, D.J. encourages listeners to rethink their identity and career orientation.

Stay tuned for a special song inspired by this episode at the very end!

00:00 Introduction: Facing the Future in IT

01:21 The Big Question: Will I Still Be Doing This at 50?

03:08 Finding Fulfillment in Your IT Career

06:06 Resource of the Week: Ruben's Bento Box

06:52 Work and Identity: A Healthy Balance

08:18 The Role of Mentorship in Career Growth

09:51 Special Course Announcement: Complete Confidence in IT

11:37 Aligning Your Job with Personal Fulfillment

17:55 Conclusion: Thriving in IT at Any Age

Thank you to our Seasonal Sponsor, Just Do THIS who invites you to book a call with DJ if this episode has inspired you to take on your next steps and you want a little help. It's our gift to you!

https://thrive-it.com/PCNS30

Thriving vs. Surviving in Information Technology

In this episode of How to Thrive in I.T., DJ Eshelman discusses the importance of adopting a thriving mindset rather than just survival in both Information Technology and life. He emphasizes the role of positive attitude, continuous learning, and adaptability. DJ also shares his personal experiences and challenges, offering encouragement and practical advice for those looking to excel in their IT careers.

Additionally, the episode introduces Brain.fm as the resource of the week and highlights his book, 'Just Do This: A Simpler Way to Succeed in I.T.'

00:00 Introduction and Mindset

00:17 Welcome to Episode Five

01:09 Surviving vs. Thriving

02:21 Victim Mentality and Abundance

04:20 Resource of the Week: Brain.fm https://thrive-it.com/brainfm

05:52 Financial Realities and Adaptation

09:09 Encouragement and Positive Attitude

12:24 Call to Action and Conclusion

14:34 Bonus: Free Book Section of Just Do THIS: https://thrive-it.com/JDTPC1

Until Further Notice, Celebrate Everything

In this episode of the How to Thrive in I.T. Podcast, D.J. Eshelman discusses the current concerns in the IT industry, emphasizing the importance of mindset for growth and success.

He reflects on his 25+ years in IT, from his early days during Y2K to launching Thrive IT. D.J. re-introduces the four key tenets of Thrive IT: mindset, methodology, mastery, and mentoring.

He stresses celebrating small wins and maintaining a positive outlook despite challenges.

The episode also honors the influence of Dan Miller.

00:00 Introduction and Industry Concerns

00:37 Welcome to the Podcast

01:19 Host Introduction: D.J. Eshelman

02:23 The Four Key Tenets of Thrive IT

03:20 Mindset: The Foundation of Success

07:26 Resource of the Week: EUC Bento Box - https://thrive-it.com/bentobox

08:23 Celebrating Wins and Overcoming Challenges

10:39 Sponsor: Be a Citrix Hero - https://citrixhero.com

16:25 Final Thoughts and Key Takeaways

Thank you to our Seasonal Sponsor, 11 Talents Publishing and Just Do THIS: A Simpler Way to Succeed in I.T.

Depending on your country - you can name your own price on Just Do THIS after completing our survey: https://thrive-it.com/currentsurvey

Enjoy and please share if this episode meant anything to ya!