Own Your Career – Career Management for the Modern Technologist with Jack Poller

Jack Poller’s talk at Cloud Field Day 21 focuses on the importance of actively managing one’s career, particularly in the technology field. He shares his own career journey, which spans from engineering to marketing, consulting, and eventually becoming an industry analyst. Poller emphasizes that career success is not just about technical skills but also about understanding how to make a company more successful, either by increasing revenue or reducing costs. He highlights the importance of being adaptable and willing to take on new roles, as he did when he transitioned from engineering to marketing. Poller also stresses that in any role, the ultimate goal should be to contribute to the company’s success, and this requires understanding the business’s needs and how your work impacts the bottom line.

Poller also discusses the importance of influence and politics in the workplace, especially as one moves up the career ladder. He acknowledges that many technologists view office politics negatively, but he argues that it is a necessary part of getting things done, particularly in leadership roles. He uses examples from his own career, such as managing a crisis after a theft at a startup, to illustrate how sometimes difficult decisions must be made quickly, even if they are not popular. Poller also references the TV show *The Wire* as a great example of how politics, both formal and informal, play out in different organizations, from drug cartels to police departments. He encourages technologists to embrace the reality of workplace politics and learn how to build coalitions and influence others to achieve their goals.

Finally, Poller emphasizes the importance of networking and personal relationships in career advancement. He points out that while technology has made it easier to apply for jobs, it has also created barriers, such as AI-driven applicant tracking systems that may filter out qualified candidates. Therefore, building a strong professional network is crucial, as most job opportunities come through personal connections rather than resumes. Poller advises technologists to be proactive in seeking out mentors and building trust with colleagues, as trust is a key factor in career success. He concludes by encouraging the audience to take ownership of their careers, set clear goals, and continuously work toward them, rather than passively waiting for promotions or opportunities to come their way.