[cshipley]

After 25 years in the industry, and been in the roles of senior engineer, lead engineer, manager, business owner. Here is my advice and thoughts.

Companies, divisions and teams are inherently social and political. Communication is very important. Understanding other people's perspectives, even if you disagree. Keep your emotions in check. Take the high road. Don't assume malice when incompetence is a sufficient explanation. Go out of your way to help other people. It builds good karma that will pay you back. Get to know other people in the company. Talk to them and show interest in them.

Perception is king. The only thing that matters is other people's perception of your you and your work. That said, the best way to increase people's perception you is to be a hard worker. Manage the visibility of what you're working on and look for visible things to do. When a department is being downsized, it's the people who are perceived to be of high value that are retained. Remember that you're being watched, even when you think you aren't. Don't look at porn at work. Don't be the last to arrive at work or the first to leave.

Knowledge should be your main goal at this point. Knowledge increases your value. Learn new technologies. Absorb as much as you can. Become the expert in niche technologies used by your team/company. It is your responsibility to make sure you understand what needs to be done. Don't expect someone to explain it to you. Make an educated guess about what are the relevant for next year and learn those. Code at home. Follow your interests.