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I’m Jean, founder of Exaltitude. I spent over two decades in tech as a software engineer and engineering manager, including being the 19th engineer at WhatsApp and later leading teams at Meta after the acquisition.
Everything I share here is what I wish I had known earlier in my career. Early on, I often felt behind. I struggled with confidence, unclear expectations, and office politics I did not yet understand. Learning those lessons the hard way shaped how I think about careers today.
What this is
I write about careers in tech and AI from the perspective of someone who has hired engineers, helped build a 19 billion dollar product, and led teams inside big tech.
Why it exists
Most career advice is outdated or disconnected from how companies actually operate. I started Exaltitude to close that gap and help people make better career decisions in a rapidly changing job market.
What to expect
I publish a couple of times a month. I prefer going deep over posting frequently. I spend a lot of time reading, researching, and learning, and I use this space to share what I find most useful.
If there is one place to start, watch this video:
👉 40 career lessons I wish I knew earlier
It will give you a clear sense of how I think.
I also share shorter, more frequent thoughts on LinkedIn if you want to follow along there.
Before you go, I’d love to learn a bit about you. Just hit reply.
Where are you based?
What are you working on right now?
What is your biggest career goal this year?
Best,
Jean
Some housekeeping…
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You can always see everything on the Substack website.
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