This post is of a different sort, so buckle up for something new. I recently completed the Advent of Code 2023 and wanted to recap what I learned and some insights on specific puzzle problems. Enjoy!

There is lots of buzz around artificial intelligence and the revolution it promises to bring. Sales and marketing teams are putting AI in everything they can imagine. As a technology leader, I love to explore and use new technologies. It is important to understand where a technology like AI can revolutionize your business and where it is simply a distraction. How does it align with the goals of your business?

The transition from independent contributor to leader and eventually executive is tricky. It feels great to become independent and be given responsibility to manage a team. This increase in responsibility can leave you blind to the importance of building a network within your organization to embrace interdependence. An effective executive delivers on organizational goals through interdependence on their executive colleagues.

Tech companies are laying off staff members. Let’s revisit how to defend against layoffs with the same tools you can use to advocate for career advancement. When you demonstrate continued delivery of results, you demonstrate value to the organization. Whether layoffs or promotions, continually consider what value you bring to the organization.

Be careful thinking that you need to “manage up” when you get frustrated with your boss. Occasionally, people ask for help "managing up" presumably to change some behavior they don’t like. Management is a responsibility that doesn't involve you changing the behavior of your boss. If you think you need to “manage up” it may be a red flag.