How can you build relationships with more experienced computer scientists?

1 Find common ground

One of the easiest ways to start a conversation with someone is to find something you have in common, such as a shared interest, project, goal, or challenge. You can use social media, blogs, podcasts, newsletters, or online communities to discover what topics or issues they are passionate about, and then ask them relevant questions, share your insights, or offer your support. For example, you could comment on their latest blog post, congratulate them on their recent achievement, or thank them for their advice or recommendation.

3 Provide value

One of the most important things to remember when building relationships with more experienced computer scientists is to provide value to them, not just ask for favors or help. You can provide value by offering your skills, knowledge, experience, or network to help them with their goals, problems, or needs. You can also provide value by sharing useful information, resources, opportunities, or feedback that they might appreciate or benefit from. For example, you could offer to help them with a task, introduce them to someone in your network, send them a relevant article or book, or give them constructive feedback on their work.

4 Be respectful and professional

When building relationships with more experienced computer scientists, you should always be respectful and professional in your communication and behavior. You should respect their time, privacy, and boundaries, and avoid being too pushy, needy, or demanding. You should also be polite, courteous, and grateful, and avoid being rude, arrogant, or disrespectful. You should also be honest, authentic, and humble, and avoid being dishonest, fake, or boastful. For example, you should always use appropriate language and tone, ask for permission before contacting them, thank them for their time and attention, and acknowledge their contributions and achievements.

5 Seek feedback and mentorship

One of the best ways to learn from more experienced computer scientists is to seek feedback and mentorship from them. You can ask them for feedback on your work, your skills, your goals, or your challenges, and then use their feedback to improve and grow. You can also ask them for mentorship, which is a more formal and long-term relationship where they guide, support, and coach you in your career development. You can seek feedback and mentorship by expressing your interest, explaining your objectives, and showing your commitment and willingness to learn. For example, you could ask them to review your code, your resume, your portfolio, or your project, or you could ask them to be your mentor, your sponsor, or your reference.

6 Maintain and nurture the relationship

Finally, once you have built a relationship with a more experienced computer scientist, you should maintain and nurture it over time. You can do this by staying in touch, following up, updating them on your progress, and celebrating their success. You can also do this by reciprocating, giving back, and supporting them in their endeavors. You can also do this by expanding your network, introducing them to other people, and joining or creating communities of practice. For example, you could send them a message, a card, a gift, or a referral, or you could invite them to an event, a webinar, a podcast, or a group.

7 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?