You’re starting out in Systems Design. How can you build confidence as a new professional?

1 Learn the basics

Before you dive into designing complex systems, you need to master the fundamental concepts and principles of systems design. These include system architecture, design patterns, trade-offs, scalability, reliability, security, and performance. You also need to be familiar with the tools and methods that systems designers use, such as diagrams, models, frameworks, and testing. You can learn the basics by reading books, taking courses, watching tutorials, and following blogs and podcasts on systems design. You can also practice by solving problems from online platforms like LeetCode, HackerRank, or Educative.

2 Seek feedback

One of the best ways to improve your systems design skills and confidence is to seek feedback from others who have more experience and expertise in this field. You can ask for feedback from your mentors, peers, or managers on your designs, solutions, or presentations. You can also participate in mock interviews, design reviews, or code reviews to get constructive criticism and suggestions. Feedback can help you identify your strengths and weaknesses, learn from your mistakes, and discover new perspectives and ideas.

3 Work on projects

Another way to build your confidence as a systems designer is to work on real-world projects that challenge you and showcase your abilities. You can find projects by joining a team, contributing to an open source project, or creating your own project based on your interests or needs. Working on projects can help you apply your knowledge, skills, and creativity to solve practical problems. It can also help you build your portfolio, network, and reputation as a systems designer.

4 Keep learning

Systems design is a dynamic and evolving field that requires constant learning and adaptation. You need to keep yourself updated on the latest trends, technologies, and best practices in systems design. You also need to expand your knowledge and skills by exploring new domains, tools, and techniques. You can keep learning by reading articles, books, and papers, watching videos and webinars, attending conferences and workshops, and taking courses and certifications. Keeping learning can help you stay relevant, curious, and confident as a systems designer.

5 Be humble

Finally, you need to be humble as a systems designer and acknowledge that you don't know everything and that you can always improve. You need to be open to new ideas, opinions, and feedback from others. You also need to be willing to ask for help, collaborate, and learn from others. Being humble can help you avoid overconfidence, arrogance, and complacency. It can also help you build trust, respect, and rapport with your clients, colleagues, and managers.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?