Some Thoughts to Ponder

I recently spent some time in discussions, chats, and brain-picking sessions with some technologists of different backgrounds and vocations. One theme that seemed to run through was different thoughts on security.

We know that from a demographic standpoint, many technologists believe in a combination of as much personal freedom for themselves, while simultaneously pushing maximum security measures for their own accounts and information. It's an interesting duality in some ways, but quite logical in many others. After all, we tend to believe in guarding what's ours from outside intrusion.

However, we may often find ourselves working with a client who doesn't always have the highest security standards in mind. Sure, standard steps are taken, including SSL connections and the like. However, it would be a smart move to have a serious conversation with your client(s) regarding the necessity of strong security measures.

While many clients might gloss over the "non-fun" aspects of building their site and online business, they may not realize how deep security should probably run.

I like to use an analogy to share the importance of security with clients. I would ask them if they ever built, or provided insight into the construction of their home. If not, they very likely have clear vision of what their dreamhouse would be. In that scenario, the vast majority of people find themselves intricately involved in the planning and design of almost every part of the house. They would also spend a lot of time considering security measures in order to protect their family.

I would then transition to compare this to online security. We, as users of technology, particularly in the cloud computing era, tend to store almost our entire lives in the cloud. Even if we don't realize that we're opening ourselves up to loss of personal data, we are still exposing ourselves to that risk. Therefore, I recommend urging your client(s) to pay the same level of close attention to defending their business' online data and financial security. Just like protecting their family, they would do well to protect their business and customers.

The New Office Etiquette

The folks over at job-board site www.monster.com have shared 12 rules for the workplace regarding etiquette.

Even though most employees know to follow these instinctively, an occasional refresher on the matter tends to be quite helpful. Some of the best-to-follow:

• Watch your language. Even if you work in a casual environment.
• Stay home if you're sick. We believe in keeping healthy here at Bixly, so please just tell us if you're sick, and we'll find a way to help you out.
• Avoid social media. While it's easy to think about how this wasn't an issue just 10 years ago, social media is a constant reminder of how much technology has changed our lives.

Be Ready for a Different Kind of Interview

The San Francisco Chronicle's online presence at sfgate.com occasionally has some great career and job search advice.

Most recently, one hit kind of close to home. I'd highly recommend going through the 25 Weird Interview Questions listed. They're kind of the rage in the tech world now.

We're Back!

So we had about a 9 month hiatus. Sorry about that. But nonetheless, we've returned on this blog and we're still looking for awesome developers here in Fresno and abroad.

In the meantime, if you're a recent college grad and looking for a job, check out this very relevant article from Careerealism regarding job search tips!