After defining the title and description of my new talk, I switched my attention to finding my bio to send it to the community from where the talk request came, the Code4Y’all.
Instead of using the same bio I had been using for a while, I thought of getting some AI help to craft a bio tailored to my audience.
Long story short, I prompted AI to use the content of my About page to create a short bio for the Code4Y’all community, based on the purpose described on their website.
Now, long story long… this is how I went about doing that.
If you prefer listening to reading…
A few years ago, I attended a class an Improver taught at our Improving University (or ImprovingU, as we call it.) The class was about the importance of working on our online presence, using LinkedIn as an example (you can watch a version of that class here). One of the proposed homework activities was for the attendees to update their “about” page on that social network. I had already been pondering on my professional journey and had some good material to work with. I’ve been regularly refining my bio ever since. This is what I have at the moment of this writing (for the latest version, check the About page on this blog or LinkedIn):
My journey in IT began when I was 14 years old, thanks to the kindness and willingness of a co-worker who taught and coached me. Those were some of the most impactful lessons I’ve ever received. The technical knowledge was valuable, but the mentoring became a driving force for over thirty years!
After narrowing my focus to software development, I’ve engaged with various technologies and contributed to numerous exciting projects. Initially, I focused on technology’s capabilities and what I could do with it. However, I later focused on enabling others to leverage its potential.
The profound lessons I acquired wouldn’t have had the same impact without the many individuals I’ve encountered along the way—those who either taught me or allowed me to share my knowledge. Learn, share. Share, learn. Rinse and repeat.
Since 2014, I have collaborated with dedicated individuals who strive for continuous improvement daily. We proudly call ourselves improvers because that’s who we are, and improving is what we do.
My specialization lies in connecting people. Software developers need to collaborate with non-technical stakeholders and vice versa, and I serve as the glue between these two groups, working diligently to achieve great things.
I facilitate effective communication between business people and developers through established processes and practices. My approach is grounded in a “show, don’t tell” philosophy, involving hands-on work, teaching, coaching, and mentoring. My expertise spans various areas, including (but not limited to):
Scrum
Agile
Effective User Stories
UX
Domain-Driven Design
Behavior-Driven Development
Test-Driven Design/Development
Clean Code
And when I say “not limited to,” it’s common to find me sharing insights on mindfulness, productivity techniques like the Pomodoro Technique, and applying improv techniques to daily life. It usually doesn’t take long for those who glance at my business card to ask, “Why motorcycles, guitars, and FoxPro?” Well, go ahead, ask me!
Those are all my thoughts and words about my career, and what I tell people when they ask me about it.
Next, here’s the Code4Y’all purpose I found on their website:
Code4Y’all is a vibrant and dynamic community of tech enthusiasts and coding aficionados who gather regularly twice a month on the three locations in Houston metropolitan area to share their passion for all things related to coding, technology, and innovation. With an unwavering commitment to fostering learning, collaboration, and networking, Code4Y’all meetups offer a unique platform for individuals of all skill levels to come together, expand their horizons, and make meaningful connections in the tech world.
After a short back-and-forth for refinement. This is the bio I sent to the community to promote the talk:
Claudio Lassala is a Technical Director at Improving in Houston. He is a seasoned IT professional with over 30 years of experience in software development, coaching, and mentorship. He has cultivated a deep passion for learning, sharing knowledge, and enabling others to unlock technology’s potential. Specializing in bridging the gap between technical and non-technical stakeholders, Claudio thrives on fostering effective collaboration and driving continuous improvement. Check out his blog at www.lassala.net
I believe that bio greatly summarizes my professional experience so far as it pertains to what the Code4Y’all community is looking for. Much like what I shared in my previous post about creating the talk’s title and description, the AI tool didn’t make anything up: it worked with the information I gave it to create something tailored to my needs.
If you are in Houston or the surrounding area, join me for this talk on February 3 at the Improving office. You’ll also find free pizza and drinks and be in great company with the Code 4Y’all community.
Please RSVP using this link.
Leave a Reply