Microsoft
Career Guidance, v2
25 minutes
Course Description
What's changed in v2?
Version two of this course better reflects the current software engineering market conditions and how anyone entering the industry should approach interviewing and the role of AI in the hiring process.
Kickstart your software engineering career with practical advice for navigating the hiring process. Gain insight into every stage of the job search, from crafting a standout resume and LinkedIn profile to mastering the interview room with confidence. Learn how to network strategically, practice the technical skills that hiring managers actually test for, and navigate the modern expectation of AI use on the job.
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Course Details
Published: May 5, 2026
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Table of Contents
Introduction
Section Duration: 3 minutes
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Brian Holt shares advice for software engineers just getting started in their careers. He begins by recommending you find technology that excites you. Demonstrating passion and your ability to go deep on a topic gives future employers examples of your work ethic and ability to deeply understand technology.
Interviewing
Section Duration: 19 minutes
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Brian gives advice for landing interviews. Having an updated resume that reflects the skills you can confidently demonstrate in interviews is essential. An active, up-to-date LinkedIn profile gives hiring managers easy access to your work history and skill set. Landing interviews isn't just about applying through. Networking is another essential tool, as warm introductions can help you bypass automated filters and give you an edge over other candidates. -
Brian emphasizes the importance of practicing and rehearsing the interview process. Interviewing is a skill. Whiteboarding, live coding, and technical communication are all components of the interview process. The more interviews you participate in, the more comfortable you'll be. Brian also stresses asking questions during interviews to demonstrate your ability to think deeply about problems and systems. -
Brian spends a few minutes discussing the role of AI in the interviewing process. Some companies allow engineers to use AI during the interview. Other companies may want challenges coded without AI. Either way, you should have experience using AI and be able to demonstrate both your skills in leveraging AI and your fundamental understanding of coding.
Wrapping Up
Section Duration: 1 minute
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Brian concludes the Career Advice course by emphasizing that interviewing and job searching can be a long process, but each step provides opportunities to learn and grow. Follow the technology you are most passionate about, network with your community, and don't be discouraged. The engineers who are committed to learning and growth will have the most success.