Anonymous member


Career development 4d
So I’ve got this situation at work, it’s bad enough I’m thinking of quitting. I forgot my lunch at home a couple of times, and my mom brought it over for me. Now everyone at the office keeps joking that I’m a total “mama’s boy”.
Yeah, I live with my mom, big deal. But now everyone’s teasing me about it, even my boss. Honestly, I’m about ready to look for a new job. What should I do?

4   

  • Dorothy Scott

    51m

    I am a mother and I have two sons. Whenever I get a chance to smother them with my love and acts of kindness, I do. If my mother were alive, she... would do the same for any of her children. BE THANKFUL YOUR MOTHER IS STILL HERE TO BRING YOU YOUR LUNCH AND ANYTHING ELSE FOR THAT MATTER. FAMILY IS EVERYTHING. My sons will always be my babies. more

  • Peter Sifuma

    8h

    Be positive about it.....I am proud about her being my mum....as long as I am alive....she will always be my mum...and I will always be her boy.

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Career development

 1h

Dark web attracts laid-off workers, teenagers, and elite talent, with a median job seeker age of 24


Kaspersky Digital Footprint Intelligence prepared a new report Inside the dark web job market: Their talent, our threat. There was a two-fold increase in the number of résumés and jobs posted on underground forums in Q1 2024 compared to Q1 2023, and this number remained on the same level in Q1 2025. Overall, in 2025, résumés outnumber vacancies 55% to 45%, driven by global layoffs and an influx of... younger candidates. Age distribution among the candidates shows a median seeker age of just 24, with a marked teenager presence.

Jobs found on the dark web are predominantly related to cybercrime or other illegal activities, although some legitimate positions are present as well. Kaspersky findings show a shadow economy where 69% of job seekers did not specify a preferred field, openly signaling they'd take any paid opportunity - from programming to running scams or high-stakes cyber operations. The most in-demand IT roles posted by employers on the dark web reflect a mature criminal ecosystem:

* developers (accounted for 17% of vacancies) create attack tools;

* penetration testers (12%) probe networks for weaknesses;

* money launderers (11%) clean illicit funds through layered transactions;

* carders (6%) steal and monetize payment data;

* traffers (5%) drive victims to phishing sites or infected downloads.

Gender-specific patterns emerged in specialized applications. Female applicants predominantly sought interpersonal roles, including support, call-center, and technical-assistance positions. Male applicants, by contrast, more frequently targeted technical and financial-crime roles - developers, money mules, or mule handlers.

Salary expectations varied sharply by specialization. Reverse engineers commanded the highest compensation, averaging over $5,000 monthly, followed by penetration testers at $4,000 monthly and developers at $2,000. Fraudsters tended to receive a fixed percentage of a team's income. Money launderers average 20%, while carders and traffers earn approximately 30% and 50% of the full income, respectively. These figures reflect a premium on scarce, high-impact skills within the shadow ecosystem.

"The shadow job market is no longer peripheral; it's absorbing the unemployed, the underage, and the overqualified. Many arrive thinking that the dark web and the legal market are fundamentally alike, rewarding proven skills over diplomas, with the dark web even offering some benefits - like offers landing within 48 hours and no HR interviews. However, not many realize that working on the dark web can lead to prison," comments Alexandra Fedosimova, Digital Footprint Analyst at Kaspersky.

Young individuals contemplating dark web employment must recognize that short-term earnings carry irreversible legal and reputational consequences. Parents, educators, and the community are urged to report suspicious online solicitations immediately. Children should be shown that there are multiple skill-building and career pathways in legitimate technology sectors, such as cybersecurity. For example, Kaspersky has special project What we should do with kids who hack on how teens can be rehabilitated and taught to use their skills for good. Kaspersky's 'Cyber Pathways' project also offers a comprehensive look into the essential cybersecurity roles, skills, and tools, to help newcomers to cybersecurity, IT generalists, seasoned experts to discover their ideal cybersecurity role.

Kaspersky offers several recommendations to stay safe.

Individuals:

* Don't follow links to suspicious-looking webpages. Never respond to unsolicited "easy money" offers, especially via Telegram or obscure forums. Verify job legitimacy through official channels.

* If you are a teen - report suspicious posts to parents or authorities. No high wage is worth a criminal record.

Organizations:

* Train employees to recognize phishing and suspicious links.

* Implement dark web monitoring for employee credentials and ex-staffer résumés. Train HR to spot "shadow experience" in applicant histories. Mandate multi-layered fraud detection - money mules and carders are entry-level roles in larger attack chains.

* Continuous monitoring of dark web resources significantly improves the coverage of various sources of potential threats, and allows customers to track threat actor's plans and trends in their activities. This type of monitoring is a part of Kaspersky's Digital Footprint Intelligence service.

* Use multiple sources of Threat Intelligence information (with coverage of surface, deep and dark web resources) to stay aware of actual TTPs used by threat actors.

The analysis was based on 2,225 job-related posts - vacancies and resumes - published on dark web forums between January 2023 and June 2025. Some of the forums and resources reviewed may no longer be accessible at the time of publication. more

Vronwyn Su


Career development 19h
Yesterday I went to an interview for a junior economist position. They offered me to work for a month or two for free like an internship, and then, if a vacancy opens up, they might hire me.
Is this some kind of scam? The company seems respectable, but I don’t understand why they’re holding interviews if there isn’t an actual job available.
Would you agree to something like that?

5   

  • kibet wesley

    1h

    Work probation lasts for six months with well stated pay package. Should your work be satisfactory you ought be employed on permanent and pensionable....  more

  • Calvin Mulligan

    1h

    If there are no job offers on the horizon, It may be worth considering (as you continue your search for a paid position). The main question to... consider is whether you can turn this volunteer position into your stepping stone to paid employment. In other words, you will want to ensure, the work experience adds real value to your resume.

    The "offer" as you have described it sounds rather vague, so you will need to ensure the terms of the internship are articulated. Is there a job description? What can you expect in terms of an orientation to the role and the company, supervision and feedback on your work? If your work meets expectations, would the company be prepared to provide you with a reference and/or a referral to prospective employers if it doesn't offer you a position at the end of the term?      more

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Career development

 3h

16 Brutal Truths About Why Finding a Job Feels Impossible Right Now


The job hunt today feels less like a professional milestone and more like an Olympic-level endurance sport you didn't train for. One moment you're hopeful, the next you're refreshing your inbox like it owes you money. Every application feels like a carefully crafted message in a bottle tossed into an ocean of thousands just like it. You keep hearing that jobs are "everywhere," yet every role you... apply for seems to vanish into a digital black hole with no explanation. If you've been feeling like landing a job right now borders on impossible, you're far from alone -- and these 16 brutal truths explain exactly why.

1. Hiring Algorithms Filter You Out Before A Human Ever Sees You

Applicant tracking systems have become the modern-day gatekeepers of employment. They scan your résumé with all the empathy of a toaster, tossing out qualified candidates without a second thought. Even small formatting errors or missing keywords can get you instantly dismissed. This leaves candidates feeling like they're auditioning for an algorithm instead of a company. Until someone touches your résumé with actual human hands, you're fighting an invisible battle.

2. Job Descriptions Are Becoming Ridiculously Unrealistic

Many companies seem to forget that no one is born knowing twelve coding languages, five software suites, and three forms of project management. Job postings are increasingly stuffed with impossible wish lists that scream perfectionism rather than practicality. When a single entry-level role demands advanced experience, candidates can feel defeated before even applying. This disconnect creates anxiety and lowers confidence among job seekers. The perfect candidate these companies want simply doesn't exist -- and they know it.

3. Everyone Is Applying For The Same Jobs At The Same Time

The job market is more crowded than ever, thanks to layoffs, career changes, and the rise of remote work. With so many people applying to the same role, competition turns brutal quickly. Even highly qualified candidates get lost in the noise. This saturation means companies can afford to be pickier than ever. Unfortunately, that leaves job seekers feeling like they're shouting into a void.

4. Companies Are Taking Forever To Make Decisions

Gone are the days of quick hiring timelines and simple interview processes. Many businesses now stretch hiring decisions across weeks -- or months -- without explanation. Extended silence creates panic, self-doubt, and frustration for applicants. Meanwhile, companies keep adding more interviews "just to be sure." This leads to emotional exhaustion long before an offer is ever made.

5. Networking Matters More Than Talent Right Now

In today's market, who you know often feels more important than what you know. Referrals can bypass automated systems and land you in front of decision-makers instantly. But not everyone has access to those networks, leaving many candidates at a major disadvantage. This creates an uneven playing field disguised as "strategy." It's discouraging, but it's the reality of modern hiring.

6. Companies Want Experience But Refuse To Train Anyone

Organizations claim they want fresh ideas and young talent, but they rarely invest in training. Instead, they want experienced employees without paying experienced salaries. This creates a paradox where entry-level jobs require years of experience. Candidates who are highly capable but inexperienced end up shut out. The cycle keeps repeating, leaving thousands stuck.

7. Many Jobs Are Already Filled Before They're Even Posted

Some roles are posted publicly even though a company already knows who they're hiring internally. The listing is merely a formality to comply with policy or appearance. Applicants waste time crafting résumés and cover letters for roles they never had a chance at. It's disheartening and wildly inefficient. Transparency would solve this, but transparency isn't trending.

8. Remote Jobs Attract Global Competition

Remote work changed everything -- especially the size of the talent pool. Suddenly your competition isn't just local; it's worldwide. A single job can receive thousands of applications within hours. While remote work offers flexibility, it also turns every role into a high-stakes competition. The odds feel impossible because, in many cases, they are.

9. Recruiters Are Overwhelmed And Understaffed

Recruiters are juggling hundreds of openings and thousands of applicants. Messages slip through cracks, follow-ups go unanswered, and qualified candidates get forgotten. It's not always intentional -- it's often pure overload. But that doesn't make it any less painful for applicants waiting desperately for updates. The system is overwhelmed from every angle.

10. Ghosting Has Become Standard Practice

Companies used to at least send rejection emails, but now many don't respond at all. Applicants pour time, energy, and emotional investment into the process only to be met with silence. This lack of closure creates uncertainty and drains motivation. Ghosting feels personal even when it isn't. Sadly, it's become the new normal.

11. Salary Transparency Still Isn't Universal

Not knowing the pay for a role until the final interview -- or not at all -- creates unnecessary stress. Candidates have no idea whether they're applying for a livable wage or something wildly below expectations. This lack of clarity wastes time for both sides. It also damages trust before the relationship even begins. Transparent pay would solve so many problems.

12. Job Searching Is Emotionally Exhausting

Looking for a job has become a full-time job. The constant cycle of hope, rejection, and silence takes a toll on mental health. Even strong candidates start doubting their worth. Burnout hits long before an offer appears. It's not just difficult -- it's draining in ways many people don't talk about.

13. Career Changes Are More Common But More Complicated

People are switching industries more than ever, but companies haven't caught up. They still focus heavily on traditional experience and linear career paths. This makes transitioning incredibly challenging, even when someone has transferable skills. Career changers often feel stuck in between industries. The flexibility the world promotes doesn't match how hiring actually works.

14. Skill Requirements Shift Constantly

Technology, trends, and workplace expectations evolve at lightning speed. Candidates feel pressure to constantly learn new tools just to stay relevant. Even experienced professionals struggle to keep up. This ever-moving target makes job hunting feel like chasing a train that's already left the station. The pace of change is exhilarating -- and exhausting.

15. Employers Want Culture Fit Without Defining Culture

Many companies emphasize "culture fit," yet their culture is unclear or inconsistent. Candidates are left trying to guess what qualities the company actually values. This makes interviews feel like personality auditions rather than skill assessments. The vagueness creates confusion and rejection for reasons impossible to understand. Culture fit shouldn't be a riddle, but too often it is.

16. The Market Has Shifted Faster Than Expectations

The job landscape has changed drastically in just a few years. Candidates are navigating new technologies, new expectations, and a new level of competition. Many people are still adjusting while companies move ahead with different priorities. This mismatch creates frustration on both sides. The ground is shifting, and job seekers are trying to stay upright.

What Has Your Job Search Really Been Like?

Finding a job right now is tough, messy, emotional, and often unfair -- but understanding why can help you stay grounded. These brutal truths aren't meant to discourage you; they're meant to remind you that the struggle isn't a reflection of your talent or worth.

Have you run into any of these obstacles during your own search? Share your stories, thoughts, or experiences in the comments below. Your journey matters, and talking about it helps everyone feel a little less alone. more

Nikki Langley


Career development 1d
I’m a junior cook who makes soups at the cafeteria. I really love cooking and graduated from culinary school with honors.
Whenever the soup or cream soup turns out great, the head cook always takes the credit and says he made it. But if something goes wrong, he blames me even when I wasn’t the one working on that dish.
It’s really frustrating. Do you think I should talk to the chef about it?

4   

  • Ronald Kiyimba

    3h

    I SHARE THIS TO LET YOU KNOW THAT YOU ARE NOT ALONE!!
    I have recently served as a biomedical engineer intern. Once the senior fails, all of you have... failed and he will not allow you to touch anything. But in his absence, i sneek and grab the tools with confidence and kwoledge of what to do and he returns to find everything working and in order than expected. Since the down equipment are repaired from the worshop space, this engineer takes the machine back for use and praises himself among the medics, in the morning meetings without crediting me. On the other hand, once something breaks down, even before troubleshooting the cause, the entire facility has got to know how an intern is letting him down. I finally convience myself not to touch anything, but i find it hard to know the right thing to do and not do it, it keeps my mind haunted...escpecially in critical areas of health care lke NICU, where a small negligance can claim a life.  more

  • Samuel Okan-Adjetey

    23h

    I need a Chef

    1
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Career development

 4h

How Are CV's Transforming In The Digital Age?


CV's have been a crucial part of the employment process since the 1950's, when they became a formal expectation at job interviews. In the decades since then, the CV has evolved, and now digital elements have been incorporated.

Job seekers need to know various tips and tricks to ensure their CV can compete in the digital age, and HR employees need to be trained in new techniques for sifting... through applications.

Until recently, job seekers would simply write up their CV onto a piece of paper and post it to employers. There has been a recent transition from paper to digital, though, which has brought about various changes in approach. Not only do candidates have to reconsider the way they structure CVs, but HR departments need to change their approaches to dealing with them.

The shift to a digital CV format means that it's possible to include elements that never existed on pre-internet versions. For instance, candidates can now incorporate visual and interactive elements, such as infographics and hyperlinks. Employers could click these links to find out more information about a candidate, such as their past work or websites that they have created.

Indeed, many candidates are now offering dynamic content alongside their CV applications. This can include personal websites that reveal online portfolios of past work and experience, offering an attractive extension to the CV for HR departments that want to delve further into the details of a potential new employee.

With all these digital elements and additional tools at everyone's disposal, it's more important than ever for hopefuls to optimise their CVs as much as possible. The most sought after jobs will receive hundreds of applications, so prospective employees need to tailor their submissions to suit the job description and the digital screening process.

It's crucial for candidates to start by looking at some CV examples in the industry that they're hoping to get employed in. There are major differences between engineering and accounting CVs, for example, so knowing what HR departments are seeking in these fields is beneficial. Researching keywords and phrases from the industry is also a winning approach, as these will be targeted by HR when they use digital tools to sort through applications.

HR Can Use Applicant Tracking Systems To Filter Candidates

The introduction of applicant tracking systems has been a huge development for HR departments in the recruitment process. The systems can analyse hundreds of CV's in a short space of time, identifying the best candidates based on keywords and other predefined parameters.

This means there's much more efficiently in recruitment, as HR departments don't need to spend as much time manually screening CV's. They can use the ATS to find the best options, and then explore these further. The customisation of filters means that HR departments can constantly refine their approach as well, zoning in on the perfect candidates for the job.

CVs have already transformed massively in the digital age, and there could be other developments to come in the future. Therefore, it's imperative that job seekers and HR departments keep up to date with modern trends.

Our team of experts at CSS Recruitment can offer help and support on how to construct the perfect CV for your desired role. We have a wealth of experience across a range of different industries and are on hand to offer advice and career guidance from creating the perfect CV to securing your ideal job.

So, if you're a candidate looking for a new role or a business looking to hire permanent staff members or need to recruit flexibly to meet demand, give us a call to discuss your plans for the future. Our team are hand to give expert advice and can look at sourcing top talent, ahead of your competitors, for when you're ready to hire. more

Career development

 5h

Industrial Temps Why November Is A Smart Month To Look For A New Job


When most people think about job searching, they typically think of January or September - new goals, a fresh start, but November is actually one of the most strategic months of the year to look for a new job.

Here's why starting your new job search can give you a real advantage.

Many candidates put their job search on hold until after holidays. This means fewer applications landing in your... employer's inboxes and more chance for your CV to stand out.

2. Companies are finalising their end of year hiring needs.

As budgets close and planning for the new year kicks in, employers often need to:

- Avoid losing next year's budget by leaving roles open.

As December is often disrupted by holidays and annual leave, employers don't want roles dragging into the new year. As a result, hiring processes in November can b:

Update your LinkedIn profile: boost your visibility by posting relevant updated. A strong LinkedIn presence can help employers find you.

Tailor every application: with fewer roles posted compared to peak hiring periods, its even more important that each application stands out. Tailor your cv, cover letter, skills section and use keywords.

Set realistic goals: November is naturally a reflective month. Use the quieter time to think about what skills you would like to develop and what kind of role will make you happy long term.

Stay positive: even when it feels slow consistency is key. Even if responses are slow towards late November, your efforts won't go unnoticed.

If you're ready to take the next step, our recruitment agency is here to help. more

Career development

 5h

A4 Architectural Portfolio Booklet


I have all the images, drawings, and résumé text ready and now need them laid out as a polished architectural portfolio CV that will be printed as an A4 booklet. The goal is a cohesive, visually balanced document that communicates my design skills and professional story at a glance. What I'm after * Print-ready artwork: High-resolution PDF with bleed and crop marks, suitable for commercial... printing. * Source files: InDesign (preferred) or an equivalent editable format so I can update projects in the future. * A matching screen-optimised PDF for email and online sharing. You'll handle page sequencing, typography, image placement, and any subtle graphic touches that elevate the overall presentation while keeping the focus on the work itself. I can supply raw materials via Dropbox or WeTransfer and will respond quickly to layout proofs and revision notes. If you have experience producing architectural or design portfolios -- and you know your way around grids, hierarchy, and print production -- let's talk timelines and start shaping the document. more

Career development

 5h

Job Searching at Christmas: How to Cope and Keep GoingCastle Employment GroupCastle Employment Group


For many people, the lead-up to Christmas is a time for celebration, family and fun. But if you're looking for a new job, it can feel overwhelming. With the cost of Christmas rising every year and the pressure to join in with festivities, job hunting during this time can bring added stress and anxiety.

You're not alone in feeling the pressure. We know that trying to stay positive when you're... applying for roles, chasing interviews and managing bills at the same time isn't easy. Whether you're unemployed, between contracts, or trying to make a change, this time of year can highlight the challenges you're facing.

But it's not all doom and gloom. There are still plenty of opportunities out there, and there are also ways to stay motivated without burning out. Here are a few helpful tips to get you through:

It doesn't need to be strict, but keeping a daily routine can help you feel more in control. Set aside time for job searching, updating your CV and following up on applications. Then balance it out with breaks, walks, or catching up with a friend. Small routines can bring structure and stop things from feeling too chaotic.

It's tempting to keep going non-stop, especially if you're worried about money or timelines. But rest is just as important. Taking even a short break can help you come back with fresh eyes and new energy. Employers don't stop hiring completely over Christmas, but it does often slow down. So give yourself permission to pause.

Many companies take on temporary staff in the run-up to Christmas. These roles can be a great way to earn some money, gain experience and even get your foot in the door for something more permanent. Keep an eye out for short-term roles in retail, hospitality, admin and customer service.

Let people know you're looking. A quick message to a former colleague or a chat at a Christmas gathering could lead to something. Don't underestimate the power of a recommendation or a friendly heads-up about a new role.

The job market can be unpredictable, and it's easy to get disheartened. Focus on what you can do each day to move forward. Update your LinkedIn, tweak your CV, practice interview answers, or do a short online course. Little steps can make a big difference.

It might feel tough, but don't miss out on the things that bring you joy. Say yes to the things you can afford and want to do. Christmas doesn't have to be expensive. A catch-up with a friend, a walk through town to see the lights, or a festive film can lift your mood without costing a penny.

We know job searching can feel lonely and stressful, especially at this time of year. But you don't have to go through it alone. Be kind to yourself, stay connected and take each day as it comes.

If you're looking for work and need support, our team is here to help. We work with employers across the region and can help match you to roles that fit your skills and goals. Email your CV to info@castle-employment.co.uk and let us help you find the right opportunity for you. more

Career development

 6h

The Business Case for Retaining Staff Through Non‑Monetary Incentives - TheMarketingblog


In today's competitive business landscape, attracting and retaining talent has become more crucial than ever. While financial compensation is undeniably important, many employers overlook the potential benefits of non-monetary incentives. These can not only enhance employee satisfaction but also promote a more engaged and committed workforce.

Understanding Employee Motivation

The first step in... creating a retention strategy that relies on non-monetary incentives is to understand what truly motivates employees. Studies have shown that job satisfaction doesn't solely hinge on salary. Factors such as workplace culture, recognition, career development, and work-life balance significantly affect an employee's decision to stay with a company.

Recent research indicates that approximately 50% of employees would choose benefits like flexible working hours over a pay rise. This finding showcases the shift in employee priorities -- adapting your approach to retain staff requires a nuanced understanding of these motivations.

Types of Non-Monetary Incentives

A variety of non-monetary incentives can be employed to retain staff effectively. Here's a closer look at some core categories:

1 Recognition and Praise

◦ Regular appreciation can enhance morale and loyalty. Implementing a recognition programme can be as simple as highlighting accomplishments during team meetings or through internal newsletters. When employees feel valued, their connection to the company deepens.

2 Professional Development Opportunities

◦ Employees are more likely to stay with a company that invests in their growth. Offering workshops, training sessions, or even mentoring can provide employees with skills and experiences that propel their careers. By committing to their development, you signal that their future is important to you.

3 Flexible Work Arrangements

◦ The pandemic has reshaped the working landscape dramatically. Flexible hours or remote work options can cater to diverse employee needs and lifestyles. Many workers now desire a balance between their personal and professional lives, and accommodating this can significantly improve retention rates.

4 Inclusive Company Culture

◦ A workplace that promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion will naturally attract and retain talent. Ensuring that all voices are heard and that there are opportunities for everyone can create a sense of belonging.

5 Employee Wellness Initiatives

◦ Supporting employees' health -- both physical and mental -- can have a positive impact on overall job satisfaction. This might include offering wellness programmes, mental health days, or access to resources that support stress management.

For a deeper dive into specific benefits that motivate employees, it's insightful to explore perspectives on how to retain staff beyond salary incentives. Numerous studies and reports suggest that the implementation of these incentives leads to better retention rates and overall job satisfaction.

The Case for Implementation

Emphasising non-monetary incentives does involve an initial investment of time and resources. However, the business case becomes clear when considering the long-term savings associated with lower turnover rates. Recruitment and onboarding processes can be costly and resource-intensive, and these expenses can quickly add up. A commitment to understanding and addressing employee needs can significantly reduce these costs.

Research indicates that the cost of losing an employee can be as high as 1.5 to 2 times their annual salary. Therefore, even a small shift in investment towards creating a positive workplace culture can yield substantial returns in reduced turnover.

Measuring Success

To determine the effectiveness of your non-monetary incentives, consider implementing employee feedback mechanisms. Surveys and focus groups can provide valuable insight into what employees genuinely value and which initiatives are making a difference. By maintaining open lines of communication, you not only gather actionable data but also reinforce that employee opinions matter.

Real-World Examples

Companies across various industries showcase the effectiveness of non-monetary incentives. For instance, a leading tech firm introduced a flexible working model that allowed employees to customise their hours based on personal commitments. This change led to a 30% reduction in turnover rates and a significant uptick in employee satisfaction scores.

Similarly, a healthcare provider implemented a recognition programme that encouraged peer-to-peer praise and commendation. As a result, they noticed an improvement in teamwork and a 20% decline in attrition over two years. These case studies illustrate how, when effectively executed, non-monetary incentives can reshape company culture and retention rates.

Conclusion

In conclusion, retaining talent requires a multifaceted approach that goes beyond salary considerations. Non-monetary incentives can considerably enhance workplace culture, boost morale, and ultimately lead to a workforce that is both engaged and committed. As companies navigate the complexities of employee motivation, embracing these strategies could be the key differentiator between retaining valuable talent and facing ongoing turnover challenges.

In an age where employees seek more than just a paycheck, understanding and implementing non-monetary incentives unlocks a pathway toward a more dedicated and satisfied workforce. By recognising the significance of these alternatives, companies can foster a loyal team that drives long-term success. more

Career development

 6h

Dark Web Attracts Laid-Off Workers, Teenagers, Elite Talent, with a Median Job Seeker Age of 24


Kaspersky Digital Footprint Intelligence has prepared a new report Inside the dark web job market: Their talent, our threat. There was a two-fold increase in the number of résumés and jobs posted on underground forums in Q1 2024 compared to Q1 2023, and this number remained on the same level in Q1 2025. Overall, in 2025, résumés outnumber vacancies 55% to 45%, driven by global layoffs and an... influx of younger candidates. Age distribution among the candidates shows a median seeker age of just 24, with a marked teenager presence.

Jobs found on the dark web are predominantly related to cybercrime or other illegal activities, although some legitimate positions are present as well. Kaspersky findings show a shadow economy where 69% of job seekers did not specify a preferred field, openly signaling they'd take any paid opportunity - from programming to running scams or high-stakes cyber operations. The most in-demand IT roles posted by employers on the dark web reflect a mature criminal ecosystem:

Gender-specific patterns emerged in specialised applications. Female applicants predominantly sought interpersonal roles, including support, call-centre, and technical-assistance positions. Male applicants, by contrast, more frequently targeted technical and financial-crime roles - developers, money mules, or mule handlers.

Salary expectations varied sharply by specialisation. Reverse engineers commanded the highest compensation, averaging over $5,000 monthly, followed by penetration testers at $4,000 monthly and developers at $2,000. Fraudsters tended to receive a fixed percentage of a team's income. Money launderers average 20%, while carders and traffers earn approximately 30% and 50% of the full income, respectively. These figures reflect a premium on scarce, high-impact skills within the shadow ecosystem.

"The shadow job market is no longer peripheral; it's absorbing the unemployed, the underage, and the overqualified. Many arrive thinking that the dark web and the legal market are fundamentally alike, rewarding proven skills over diplomas, with the dark web even offering some benefits - like offers landing within 48 hours and no HR interviews. However, not many realise that working on the dark web can lead to prison," comments Alexandra Fedosimova, Digital Footprint Analyst at Kaspersky.

Young individuals contemplating dark web employment must recognise that short-term earnings carry irreversible legal and reputational consequences. Parents, educators, and the community are urged to report suspicious online solicitations immediately. Children should be shown that there are multiple skill-building and career pathways in legitimate technology sectors, such as cybersecurity. For example, Kaspersky has a special project What we should do with kids who hack on how teens can be rehabilitated and taught to use their skills for good. Kaspersky's 'Cyber Pathways' project also offers a comprehensive look into the essential cybersecurity roles, skills, and tools, to help newcomers to cybersecurity, IT generalists, and seasoned experts to discover their ideal cybersecurity role.

Kaspersky offers several recommendations to stay safe.

Individuals:

Organisations:

The analysis was based on 2,225 job-related posts - vacancies and resumes - published on dark web forums between January 2023 and June 2025. Some of the forums and resources reviewed may no longer be accessible at the time of publication. more

Career development

 8h

Recruiter's 'top tips' for securing AI entry-level roles in manufacturing


As more and more job postings involve AI skills as a requirement, one of the UK's leading recruiters for the manufacturing industry, Gi Group UK is urging candidates and businesses to see the integration of artificial intelligence as an opportunity for change and career development.

Laura Stretton, Candidate Experience Manager at Gi Group UK, is encouraging entry level candidates to broaden their... horizons and dive into AI training opportunities.

According to estimates from the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change, one to three million jobs could be displaced by AI, however these are predicted to occur gradually with the pace of AI adoption across the wider economy. AI could raise UK national income by between 5 per cent and 14 per cent by 2050, with the most likely prediction pointing to a substantial 11 per cent boost.

Gi Group UK fills over 2,800 manufacturing roles per week and actively supports 100 manufacturing clients across the county. With deep insights into hiring trends and talent bottlenecks, Gi Group believes the integration of AI within this industry provides opportunity for upskilling and progression. Within the manufacturing industry, many of Gi Group's clients are seeking candidates with technical skills that are increasingly hard to find, including machine operation, precision engineering, and digital manufacturing technologies.

1. An opportunity for change

Sharing insight into the role of AI within recruitment, Laura said: "Artificial intelligence is transforming the recruitment landscape, particularly in entry-level roles. However, though we may be seeing an industry reduction in traditional positions, there is a growing demand for candidates equipped with the training and knowledge to operate AI systems. While the integration of AI within the workplace comes with a number of cautions, it is a great opportunity for upskilling and building technical skills.

"AI is here, which means businesses and candidates must keep up. In order to stay ahead of the curve and remain at the forefront of tech advancements, both parties must adapt and upskill.

"From a candidate perspective, it's time to be looking at adapting the focus of your CV to showcase any AI-related expertise and embracing continuous learning to remain competitive in the evolving job market. We encourage candidates to explore how AI can create opportunities and open doors, including new and innovative career pathways."

2. Training and development

Rebecca Napier, IT Business Partner at Gi Group UK, commented: "At Gi Group, AI training has become a key element of our upskilling opportunities for employees. It is no longer a debate of whether AI will impact the workplace, it's now about ensuring you're getting on board. I'm currently working towards my degree apprenticeship in Digital and Tech Solutions, to ensure I'm up to speed with how artificial intelligence can help our candidates and support our internal team to continually develop.

"With any new skill or tool, learning is important for every role, but it's particularly important within tech related industries. As the job market continues to evolve it's vital that businesses and candidates alike are prioritising not only the integration of AI but the management of AI systems.

"We've implemented AI tools into our recruitment process to become a more streamlined and efficient service to our customers and candidates. Our systems ensure we can fulfil tight deadlines and position the best candidates with the right businesses. Finding a way to integrate these tools into daily work life is an important task for businesses wishing to succeed."

The Government's latest data has found that AI related employment increased by 33%, when comparing 2023 to 2024, which is an increase of 21,600 jobs. Examples of entry level AI related roles include AI Prompt Engineer, AI Ethics Specialist, and AI Operations Assistant.

3. The emergence of new roles

Stretton added: "Entry level vacancies have dropped, while the UK job adverts requiring AI skills continue to grow faster than other sectors. The introduction and implementation of AI isn't just a tech advancement, it has created a cultural switch, changing the working world as we know it. While these tech advancements are disrupting career routes, it is the perfect opportunity for new roles to emerge and for candidates to acquire new skill sets and increase their AI literacy. However, it's important that candidates don't lose focus of the human soft skills like creativity and critical judgement that will help them to adapt.

"Businesses are harnessing the power of AI to grow and innovate, so candidates who are proactive in aligning their skillsets with these advancements will be well-positioned to thrive in this dynamic environment. Gone are the days of one-track careers, this new era of employment is providing vast opportunities for candidates to explore their strengths and dive into the latest tech." more

Taofeeq Oyelade
Career development 2d
Why Your Resume Might Be Working Against You — Even When You’re Qualified

Hi everyone — I’ve read through many honest and powerful posts here: people who feel qualified, experienced, and ready — but still getting rejected or ghosted. I want to share a few common resume issues that aren’t about lack of skill or experience — but about how your strengths are being communicated, and that might be... what’s holding you back.

1. Your resume isn’t telling your story.
It’s not just about listing your tasks and roles. Recruiters — and even hiring systems — want to see impact. What changed because of you? What problem did you help solve? When your resume shows that, it suddenly feels more real, more valuable.

2. ATS systems are filtering out strong candidates.
Unfortunately, many companies use automated tracking systems before a human ever sees your application. This isn’t just a numbers game — it means real, capable people are being passed over simply because their resumes aren’t perfectly tailored for the system. It’s not a reflection of your potential — it’s a limitation of the process.

3. Your choice of words matters.
I’ve seen resumes full of “helped,” “assisted,” or “worked on” — and while those are honest words, they don’t show the scale of your contribution. Using verbs like “led,” “implemented,” “optimized,” or “designed” helps hiring teams understand the real weight of your work.

4. The way your resume is formatted makes a difference.
Even a powerful experience can be missed if the layout is confusing — too many tables, odd graphics, or clutter. A clean, simple, and readable structure works best. It helps both the ATS and real people see what you actually did.

If any of this resonates — if you feel like your resume is good but isn’t doing its job — I’d be very happy to review one sentence or bullet point from it (or your LinkedIn headline) and give you a honest tip. Just drop it below, and I’ll respond. more
17   
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Career development

 19h

I just turned 40 and started reflecting on my career. Here are 5 things I wish I knew when I was starting out.


Building a network and maintaining good health are also crucial for achieving success.

I just turned 40 years old, and like many at this milestone, I've been reflecting on the lessons I wish I had understood sooner -- specifically when it comes to work.

My career has taken me from newsrooms at some of the biggest broadcasters to launching my own business. I've achieved great success along the... way, but, of course, it came with some challenges.

Starting out in media as a 20-something, I was naive about some aspects of career development. Twenty years later, as I reflect back on the start of my work life, I now wish I could tell my younger self these five simple truths.

When I was fresh out of university, I thought the job title was everything. My ego wanted a fast climb. But my real education didn't come from my job title; it came from being in the right rooms.

My early years as a TV news publicist were not flashy. I wasn't on-air talent, and I wasn't crafting the headlines. But I was in the room with some of the best journalists and producers in the industry. Just by proximity, I observed excellence.

I learned how producers think, how editors solve problems under pressure, how presenters prepare before interviews, and how to craft stories that mattered to a large audience.

Don't obsess over the title. Focus on being around people who are excellent at their craft and can challenge you to improve. The room will teach you more than the role.

For years, I believed my work would speak for itself. I worked hard, delivered results, and waited to be recognized. Spoiler alert: it doesn't work that way. Your visibility matters (sometimes more) than your performance.

Self-promotion doesn't mean arrogance; it means self-advocacy. It means ensuring your contributions are known to the right people -- inside and outside the organization.

It means speaking up for yourself in meetings, regularly sharing wins without apology, and building a personal brand -- even within your company walls.

It also means building a personal brand beyond your CV. Ensure your work is visible, so future opportunities can find you.

Careers don't accelerate because of skills alone. They accelerate through people. Every opportunity I've had in my career came from a person: someone who referred me, introduced me, or recommended me for a role.

In my 20s, I thought networking was about collecting business cards at events. Now I know it's about building relationships -- genuine, long-term connections with people. The right community opens doors you didn't even know existed.

Your network is not just about where you want to go; it's about who you want to become. Surround yourself with people who are building lives and careers you admire.

When I finally launched my own business in 2017, I realized that side projects build confidence, networks, and a sense of freedom outside the 9-to-5.

I wish I had started earlier, not only because of the financial benefits but also because of the valuable experience. A side hustle teaches you skills that you may not always acquire at work, such as sales, marketing, and resilience. It also gives you proof that you can create something on your own terms.

I believe that every person should know how to earn money outside their 9-to-5 job. It keeps you edgy and also gives you the freedom to move on and not "stay stuck" in a role that isn't aligned anymore.

Even if your side hustle never becomes your full-time career, it can give you the courage to make bolder moves in your main job.

At 40, I'm paying what I call the "health tax" -- late nights, skipped meals, and endless coffee runs.

In my 20s and 30s, I treated my body like an afterthought. But energy and health are career assets. Without them, success is not sustainable.

No promotion, paycheck, or title is worth burning out your body. I wish I had realized that rest, exercise, and healthy boundaries weren't luxuries; they were strategic career decisions.

At 40, I'm not lamenting what I didn't do. I'm grateful for the lessons I had to learn the hard way because they make me want to share them with the next generation of leaders, creators, and dreamers.

Your career becomes a series of rooms, relationships, and risks. A title on a business card is only temporary. But your expertise, reputation, health, and network will follow you everywhere you go. more
6   

  • Ernest Mupemo

    12h

    In all we do network matters... It's our net worth

Career development

 14h

How to Build a Portfolio Website Using Figma and AI Tools - A Guide for Developers


Ever since my article on How to Become a Full Stack Developer and Get a Job in 2025 went viral, I've received countless DMs, emails, and even WhatsApp messages from readers. People have been asking about everything from learning to code and mastering system design to web design and how AI fits into modern development.

I've been taking it one topic at a time. My last piece on system design... principles received great feedback, and that encouragement has kept me going.

Lately, I've developed a deep interest in UI/UX design - not just out of curiosity, but because so many readers have been requesting a detailed guide. They want one that explains how to learn web design, how to apply it to real-world projects, and how AI is reshaping the field.

Looking back, my journey started six years ago as a software tester. From there, I transitioned into full-stack development, then DevOps. I also explored data analysis, and today I manage a full-time freelancing career alongside my farming work.

One thing I've learned along the way is that a strong portfolio can take you to places you'd never imagined.

I've had a portfolio for years, but now I'm completely rebuilding it from scratch to make it cleaner, smarter, and more reflective of who I've become as a developer.

In this tutorial, I'll walk you through how I created my new portfolio and show you how you can build yours too - with the right structure, design, and a touch of copywriting magic to make it stand out.

A portfolio website is your own space on the internet where you can proudly show your best work, projects, and achievements. Think of it as your digital résumé, but far more visual and personal. Instead of just listing your skills or job titles, it lets people actually see what you've built, designed, or created, and this tells your story better than any document can.

It helps employers, clients, or collaborators understand your skills, experience, and creativity at a glance. While it's beneficial for designers, developers, writers, and photographers, anyone who wants to share their work online can create one, from students and freelancers to business professionals.

Here's why having a portfolio website matters:

In simple words, your portfolio website is your professional story told visually - a mix of your work, passion, and personality that helps the world see what you're capable of.

Now that we know why a portfolio website matters, let's look at the key components that make it stand out. Each part plays a role in showing who you are, what you can do, and how you can help others.

Since I'm a developer, and the people who have reached out to me are mostly tech enthusiasts, here I'll give a technical portfolio example. But you can apply the learnings from this guide to build any type of portfolio for any niche/business.

Your homepage is like the front door to your digital world. It should quickly tell visitors who you are, what you do, and why you're worth hiring or collaborating with. Keep it clean, simple, and welcoming: just a few strong lines about your skills and what kind of projects you work on.

Tip: Use a short headline like "Hi, I'm Prankur - I build fast, user-friendly web apps."

This is where you make your connection with the audience. Share your journey: how you started, what drives you, and what kind of problems you love solving. Keep it conversational and honest. People love working with real humans, not buzzwords.

Tip: Add a professional but friendly photo (optional) here to make it more personal.

This is the heart of your portfolio. List your best projects - the ones that represent your strongest skills and the kind of work you want to keep doing. Each project should include:

Tip: 3-6 strong projects are better than 15 average ones. If you're actively contributing to open source, you should add that to your portfolio, too.

Case studies take your projects one step further. They explain your thinking process and how you understood the client's problem, what steps you took, and what results you achieved. This helps potential employers or clients see your problem-solving skills, not just your designs or code.

Tip: Keep it short and focus on the "before → after" transformation.

List your key technical and creative skills, like HTML, CSS, JavaScript, React, Figma, or AI.

You can group them as:

Tip: Keep the list focused and highlight the tools you actually use, not every tool you've ever tried.

People trust people. Include a few quotes or short testimonials from clients, teammates, or mentors who can vouch for your skills and professionalism. It instantly builds trust and credibility.

If you are just starting, you can add this section later on, as initially you won't have testimonials. Once you start working, you can politely ask your clients to give their feedback on your work. Just make sure to get their permission to add it to your site.

Tip: Ask for a 2-3 sentence testimonial right after finishing a project.

If you write tutorials or share knowledge, add a blog section. It helps you stand out as someone who not only builds but also teaches and communicates ideas clearly. It also boosts SEO and keeps your site fresh.

Tip: Even 2-3 strong, educational articles can make a huge difference.

Your contact page should be simple, visible, and welcoming. Include your email, social links (LinkedIn, GitHub, X/Twitter), and maybe a contact form. You can also add a small call to action like:

"Have a project in mind? Let's connect."

Tip: Place your contact link in the main menu. Don't hide it.

If you're job-hunting, include a link to download your latest résumé. You can also add a "quick summary" of your experience, education, and certifications directly on the website.

Every great portfolio ends with a nudge - a simple next step for your visitor. It could be:

A clear CTA can help turn a visitor into a lead or follower.

Your portfolio is not just a gallery. It's a storytelling tool. It tells the world what you can do, how you think, and what makes you unique. Make sure every section serves a purpose, looks clean, and reflects your real personality.

1. Showcase Your Best Work

Only include your strongest and most relevant projects. Quality matters more than quantity. A few great examples of your work will create a much better impression than a long list of average ones.

2. Use High-Quality Images and Videos

Make sure your work looks clear and professional. Good visuals instantly catch attention and show that you care about presentation. Use clean screenshots, mockups, or short demo videos.

3. Write Clearly and Keep It Short

Explain your work and skills in simple, easy-to-read language. Avoid long paragraphs -- most visitors just skim. A few lines that get straight to the point are enough.

4. Tell Your Story

Use your "About Me" section to share your journey -- how you started, what you love building, and what kind of work you enjoy most. People connect more with stories than with just titles or resumes.

5. Keep Navigation Simple

Make sure visitors can easily find your projects, contact info, and other key details. A clean menu and clear layout help people focus on your work instead of figuring out where to click.

6. Keep It Updated

Whenever you finish a new project or learn a new skill, add it to your portfolio. An up-to-date portfolio shows that you're active, learning, and growing in your field.

7. Optimise for SEO

Use the right keywords -- the ones people might type when searching for your kind of work (like "frontend developer" or "Figma to code expert"). This helps your site appear in search results. Many AI-powered website builders can assist with basic SEO setup.

Designing your own portfolio might sound intimidating at first, but tools like Figma make the process surprisingly intuitive - even if you're not a professional designer. With Figma, you can visually plan every section of your portfolio before turning it into a live website.

I've been learning web design and using Figma for a long time for my client projects. But here, I didn't build the entire portfolio from scratch. I used Figma's design inspiration library to get some ideas, and I built the portfolio based on that.

Let's walk through how you can do that, step by step, using the layout shown below as an example:

Before adding colours or fancy visuals, begin with a simple wireframe. It's basically a rough sketch of your portfolio layout.

In Figma, you can create frames for each section you want on your site:

This helps you get the structure right before focusing on design. Don't worry about fonts or images yet - just boxes and text placeholders are enough.

Here's a sample wireframe I created to visualise how everything should look before moving into Figma. It's always a good idea to sketch or plan your design on paper first, as it helps you get a clear picture of the layout and refine details like colours, fonts, and spacing early on.

Once the wireframe is ready, you can start adding your preferred colours, typography, and images to bring the design to life. If you want to go a step further and understand how to choose the right colour palettes and fonts, it's worth exploring design psychology -- it plays a huge role in how people perceive your work.

Once your structure feels solid, start adding typography and colour to create a visual hierarchy. This helps the viewer's eyes know where to focus first.

For example, in the sample design above, the hero section (at the top) instantly grabs attention with bold typography ("I build things for the web") and a subtle background/hero image.

Use Figma's colour styles to define a consistent palette. Try using about 3 to 4 shades that complement each other. Keep it minimal and professional. For text, you can choose neutral fonts like Poppins, Inter, or Roboto, which look great on both dark and light themes.

Figma allows you to turn recurring UI elements like buttons, cards, and tags into components. In the portfolio example here, notice how every project card, article preview, and pricing box follows the same layout. By creating a single card component and reusing it, you can easily maintain consistency and update everything in one go later.

In this design, I will be using a blog featuring component multiple times, so instead of designing it again and again, I have made it once, and I am now using it multiple times.

Now that your base design is ready, it's time to make it personal. You can go ahead and replace placeholders with:

Make sure you keep the spacing clean. It ensures all sections stay neatly aligned, even when you adjust or add new elements later.

In this hero section, I have used my name and colour and font of my choice on the left, and you can see the Styles showing all the colours I have used across the project.

Before exporting your design, use Figma's Prototype Mode to link different pages together - for example, make "Projects" in the top navigation scroll smoothly to your project section. This gives you a working demo to test how users will experience your portfolio before you even write a single line of code.

You can also share this prototype with friends or mentors for quick feedback.

After testing your design in Prototype Mode when you're satisfied, the final step is the handoff. Use the Export panel to download all required assets (icons, logos, images) in their correct formats. Then share the Figma file and go to Dev Mode, where you can inspect typography, spacing, sizes, and colour values. These exported assets and inspected specs are what developers use to create the live HTML/CSS code.

Note: The Dev Mode in Figma allows you to inspect CSS and export your stuff easily. Since I don't have a paid Figma plan, I can't show inspecting and exporting.

Designing your portfolio in Figma gives you full freedom over layout, colour choices, and how you present your personality. Keep it simple, prioritise usability, and design with clarity. Once the layout is complete and tested, converting it into a functional site becomes straightforward.

You can also use auto layout just by right-clicking on the design section components.

Auto Layout allows designers to define rules for spacing, direction, padding, and alignment of elements. This ensures layouts like buttons, lists, and cards instantly adapt (scale/shrink) to content changes or different screen sizes without manual adjustments.

Once you've built and tested your Figma layout, converting it into code becomes the easy part.

By the time you're done with the wireframe and colours, and your portfolio is live on Figma, it's time to convert that Figma design into code. There are two ways to do so:

When you design a website or app in Figma, the next big step is turning that design into working code. Traditionally, developers have done this manually: inspecting each element, writing HTML, CSS, and then refining the layout in frameworks like React or Tailwind CSS.

It's important to understand how this process is normally done by hand. This is the foundation that every frontend developer relies on -- and it's also what helps you evaluate and improve AI-generated code later.

When you design a website or app in Figma, the next step is to translate that visual layout into real HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. Developers usually start by examining each element in the design - its size, spacing, typography, colour, and layout rules - and manually rebuilding it in code.

Using Figma's Export panel, you download only what needs to be recreated visually in code:

Most structural elements (buttons, cards, sections, containers) are not exported - you'll need to build them using HTML and CSS.

If you're using Tailwind CSS, this becomes a matter of applying the right utility classes, but the logic remains the same: everything is recreated manually.

Once you have your Figma layout ready, the real work happens inside your code editor (which for me is VS Code). Here's how developers traditionally rebuild the UI one section at a time.

In VS Code, create your project structure. It'll look something like this:

If you're using React, this becomes the structure:

This structure mirrors what you saw in Figma: each major design section becomes a container or component.

Now, you'll look at the Figma frame and convert it to raw markup.

You're essentially mapping each Figma layer onto an HTML element.

In Figma, layouts are visual. In HTML/CSS, you must translate the layout rules.

If Figma shows two columns (text + image), you'll use Flexbox:

This is why developers need to know their fundamentals: AI tools often miss these fine details.

Everything must match the design. And in this case, spacing is what makes UI look polished.

You'll need to manually copy each hex code into CSS, as this is where accuracy matters.

Switching back and forth between your Figma design and a separate CSS file can slow down your whole workflow. Tailwind CSS solves this by letting you write styles right inside your HTML using small, reusable utility classes.

In this section, you'll learn how to take the exact pixel values you see in the Figma Inspector and turn them into Tailwind utilities.

Tailwind doesn't use raw pixel values. Instead, it uses a consistent spacing scale, usually based on a 4px grid.

Here's the simple rule: Take the pixel value from Figma, divide by 4, and that number becomes your Tailwind utility.

If your Figma element uses different padding for X and Y, convert each side separately.

Example:

Tailwind doesn't use pixel sizes for fonts. Instead, it uses semantic names - almost like T-shirt sizes.

Example:

This encourages typography consistency, instead of manually choosing random font sizes.

Once you get used to it, the workflow becomes second nature:

No switching files. No naming CSS classes. No extra stylesheet bloat.

Just fast, direct, design-to-code translation.

Open a Figma component (like a button or a card) and check its spacing, padding, and font size in the Inspector. Then convert everything using the simple rules above.

Before long, you'll be turning Figma designs into clean Tailwind code in seconds.

You check how the design should behave on different screen sizes:

This requires writing responsive styles and breakpoints, which AI tools can attempt but rarely perfect.

Even though it takes more time, this approach teaches fundamentals that AI tools simply can't replace:

These skills allow you to inspect code intelligently and improve it wherever needed, which is almost always necessary, no matter which tool you use.

To speed up this process, you can now use AI-powered and automated Figma-to-code tools. These tools analyse the Figma file and instantly generate code that you can integrate into your tech stack.

There are multiple tools available in the market, like V0, Builder.io, and Kombai.

For demonstration purposes, I'll be using Kombai, a VS Code extension. And since most of us developers spend a lot of time inside VS Code, it's the perfect place to test it out.

To install it in VS Code, simply open the Extensions Marketplace, search for 'kombai', click 'Install' and open the extension.

Now, at the agent panel, click on the "Let's get started" button and sign up or log in with your credentials.

Now it's time to test the agent for real work. To do so, I'll be using the Figma file attached to build this portfolio.

A few things to keep in mind as you get going:

To copy the Figma design file link, open your Figma design file and simply select your desired design, select copy/paste, and then select copy link to selection. It will copy the complete design file URL.

You can also copy the link of any Figma component and follow the same approach to get the desired outcome.

Open the agent extension in VSCode and select the Figma (icon) agent at the bottom of the agent toolbar. It will open a new pop-up. In it, paste the link you copied to the design file (check the screenshot below). Then you can prompt the agent with what you want it to do with this Figma file.

In my case, I wanted to replicate the same design, so I gave this prompt along with my Figma design link:

"You are an expert UI/UX designer and your task is to build and replicate the entire Figma design in the HTML/CSS/JS code from the attached URL."

After confirming this, the agent will start working to replicate the same design as you've seen in the Figma file.

Now you have the full picture of both approaches and when to use each one.

AI tools can speed up the design-to-code process, but the output is rarely production-ready. Most tools struggle with layout precision, accessibility, and responsiveness, especially in real-world designs. You should expect to review and improve various parts of the generated code, such as:

Because of these limitations, AI-generated code should be treated as a starting point, not a final product. You'll still need to validate the logic, refine the structure, and ensure the final result meets real-world quality standards. AI reduces repetitive work, but you, as the developer, need to ensure the code's correctness, accessibility, and long-term maintainability.

The manual method gives you complete control and teaches you the fundamentals, which are essential for understanding how layouts, spacing, and components actually translate into real code.

When you write the HTML, CSS, and component structure yourself, you build a deeper understanding of how layouts, spacing, responsiveness, typography, and accessibility truly work under the hood. These fundamentals are what make you a strong frontend developer, and no automated tool can replace that learning.

AI-assisted design-to-code tools can help with speed - especially in the early stages when you just want a quick starting point. They remove some of the repetitive setup work, but the output almost always needs refinement.

In real projects, the most dependable workflow is a combination of both approaches: Use automation only for the boilerplate, then rely on your own frontend knowledge to clean up, reorganise, and fine-tune the interface so it meets real-world standards.

Personally, I still prefer coding my designs manually because it keeps me connected to the craft and helps me build muscle memory. It's the only way to fully understand how the design translates into a live, responsive interface and how each decision affects performance and user experience.

AI tools don't replace frontend developers. They simply support them. They handle repetitive tasks so you can focus on the skills that truly matter: clarity of structure, accessibility, responsive behaviour, and crafting an experience that feels polished and intentional.

Now that your portfolio is designed and coded, let's turn our attention back to what it actually says.

Copywriting is the art of using words to convince people to take a specific action, like buying a product, signing up for a service, or visiting a website. It's a mix of creativity and marketing, where words are used to sell ideas or products smartly and emotionally.

A copywriter writes many types of content, from sales pages, website text, and social media posts to ad scripts and emails. The goal is simple: to make people take action.

So what makes copywriting effective?

Your portfolio isn't just about showing your work - it's about telling your story in a way that connects with people. That's where copywriting comes in. Good copy turns your portfolio from a plain showcase into something that feels personal, clear, and convincing.

Here's how you can use copywriting effectively while building your portfolio:

The first line people see should instantly tell them who you are and what you do. For example:

"I build modern, responsive web apps that turn ideas into digital reality."

Your headline is like your elevator pitch: short, powerful, and clear.

In the About Me section, don't just list your skills. You should also tell visitors about your journey. Write about how you got started programming, what you've learned along the way, and what drives you. Keep it conversational and real, like you're talking to a friend.

"I started coding six years ago with simple HTML pages. Today, I design full-stack apps and help startups bring their ideas to life."

When you show your projects, don't just describe what you built. Explain why it matters.

Instead of: "I built a task manager app."

Try: "A simple, clutter-free task manager that helps users stay productive without distractions."

This small change turns your project into a problem-solving story, not just a tech demo.

Every portfolio should guide visitors toward an action, like contacting you, checking your GitHub, or reading your blog.

Here are some examples:

"Want to collaborate? Let's build something amazing together."

"Looking for a developer who writes clean and efficient code? Reach out!"

A clear CTA shows confidence and gives people a direction.

Avoid fancy words or buzzwords. Write like a human, not a brochure. Use simple, clear sentences that sound like your real voice.

Good copywriting is not about being clever - it's about being clear and honest.

Whether your style is formal or friendly, keep it the same across all pages - home, about, projects, and contact. A consistent tone helps build your personal brand and makes your portfolio feel professional.

Copywriting is the invisible thread that ties your portfolio together. It helps people not just see your work, but feel your story.

Before your portfolio goes live, it's important to test it so that you know it looks and works as it's supposed to. A fast, responsive, and accessible site leaves a strong first impression, and benchmarks help you measure whether it's up to your standards. And a well-tested site loads faster, ranks better, and gives users (and recruiters) a seamless experience.

Below are the key benchmarks you should always check, along with why they matter.

This is the time it takes for your page to fully load after someone visits it. A fast-loading site feels smooth and professional, while a slow one instantly turns people away.

This matters because most visitors leave if a site takes more than 3 seconds to load. Tools like GTmetrix or Pingdom can help you track and improve page load speed by optimising images and reducing unnecessary scripts.

Google uses Core Web Vitals to measure real-world user experience.

These metrics directly affect how users perceive your site and also impact SEO ranking. You can test them on PageSpeed Insights.

Most people will view your portfolio on their phones, so it needs to look and work perfectly on smaller screens.

A mobile-optimised site not only improves user experience but also ranks better on Google's mobile search results. Use responsive layouts and flexible grids to ensure smooth viewing on all devices.

Accessibility means making your portfolio usable for everyone, including people with disabilities.

This is important because following WCAG standards (like proper colour contrast, keyboard navigation, and alt text for images) shows professionalism and inclusivity. Tools like Lighthouse or WAVE can help you check how your portfolio ranks for key accessibility metrics.

SEO isn't just for businesses. It can also help your personal site appear when someone searches your name or skills.

If you add proper meta tags, structured headings (H1, H2, H3), and descriptive URLs, these features can help recruiters or clients find you more easily. A well-optimised portfolio often performs better on job searches and tech blogs.

Responsiveness measures how quickly your website reacts when users click or scroll. And a laggy interface feels unprofessional and hurts user engagement. By minimising heavy scripts and optimising animations, you ensure smooth, immediate feedback for every action.

Even a simple portfolio needs HTTPS. It builds trust and protects both you and your visitors from data breaches. Browsers like Chrome now flag non-secure sites, so enabling SSL is a must.

Heavy resources can slow everything down. Compressing files, minifying CSS/JS, and using next-gen image formats (like WebP) can dramatically improve speed and performance.

Not everyone uses Chrome on a laptop. So make sure you test your portfolio across major browsers (Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge) and devices (desktop, tablet, mobile). Simulated testing tools like DebugBear or Basemark Web help catch layout issues early.

Instead of just testing in a lab, RUM captures how real visitors experience your site. This helps you understand performance in real-world scenarios - on different devices, networks, and locations - and adjust your design based on real data.

Now it's time to push your changes to GitHub and deploy them on a hosting provider of your choice. Hosting services play a crucial role in showcasing your work. Depending on the type of projects you build, here are some of the best free hosting options that I have used so far for my personal and professional projects.

Your portfolio is ready, and you can share it anywhere with just a link.

Now that your portfolio is ready, it's time to use it the right way. Whether you're applying for a job, pitching to a freelance client, or simply networking with like-minded people, your portfolio is your strongest asset.

Think of it as your digital introduction. It not only shows what you've built but also how you think and work. The key is to use it smartly in the right context.

Let's say you come across a job post or want to reach out directly to a recruiter or a company founder. Instead of just sending a plain résumé, you can make your message stand out by attaching your portfolio link. Here's an example of how you can do it:

Example email/direct message:

Hi [Hiring Manager/CEO Name],

I'm Prankur, a Full Stack Developer from India with over 6 years of experience building mobile and web applications.

I came across the opening for [Job Title/Role] at your company and believe my skills align perfectly with what you're looking for.

You can explore my work here: [Portfolio URL]

I'm available to start immediately and excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team and codebase.

Best regards,

Prankur Pandey

This small but professional touch - including your portfolio link in every email, proposal, or LinkedIn message - increases your chances of being noticed. A well-presented portfolio speaks louder than a résumé, and it helps recruiters or clients quickly understand your skills, design sense, and coding depth.

So, don't just build your portfolio. Use it actively. Share it on job boards, LinkedIn posts, your GitHub bio, or even in casual conversations with potential collaborators. Every share is a new opportunity waiting to unfold.

1. Is building a portfolio really important?

Absolutely. Instead of sending out a dozen links to your GitHub, Behance, and LinkedIn, it's much more effective to combine all your work into one clean, accessible portfolio site. It makes you look organised, professional, and easy to evaluate.

2. Is it worth buying a domain name?

Yes, it is, if you're serious about your career. Having your own domain (like yourname.dev or yourname.com) gives a personal and professional touch,

But if you're still learning or just experimenting, it's fine to start with a free domain. Once you have solid projects to show, investing in your own domain is totally worth it.

3. Can I use AI or no-code tools to build my portfolio?

You can, but if you're a developer, you should try coding it yourself first. It's a great way to showcase your creativity and technical control over design and logic. Here's a simple and straightforward guide to help you get started with that.

Once your design is ready, you can always use AI or no-code tools to speed up the process or automate parts of it. Think of AI as a helper, not a replacement.

4. How can I get AI tools for testing?

It's easy: visit the official websites of the tools you're interested in and sign up. Most AI tools offer free trials or limited credits that you can use to explore and test their features based on your workflow and needs.

5. I am just starting. What should I use: AI tools or the Manual Method?

I strongly recommend using the Manual Method as it will help you to understand your craft well, and you will also build muscle memory about a technology and how it works.

6. Which Platform should I use for hosting?

Most of the hosting providers offer a free plan, so you can start with that. Then, when you feel the need to expand your portfolio, switch to a paid plan.

Building a strong portfolio requires time, effort, and attention to detail. But it's one of the smartest investments you can make in your tech career.

Tools and templates can help speed up the process, but your creativity, skills, and storytelling are what truly make a portfolio stand out. A well-crafted portfolio not only shows what you can build, it reveals how you think and why your work matters.

While you can use design tools, frameworks, or even AI assistance to save time, make sure you understand the basics of design, structure, and usability. The goal isn't to create something flashy; it's to produce something clear, professional, and authentic.

Your portfolio is your digital identity, so treat it like your personal brand. Keep refining it as your skills grow and let it evolve alongside your career.

A portfolio isn't just a website. It's your story told through your work. It helps employers, clients, and collaborators understand what you do best and why you stand out.

In this article, I've shared everything that helped me build and refine my own portfolio, from understanding design structure and copywriting to testing and optimisation benchmarks. My goal is to help you create a portfolio that not only looks great but also opens real opportunities for you.

In my next tutorial, I'll explore something new for sure.

Design + Creativity+Development + Execution = The Ultimate Developer Stack 🔥

Keep learning, keep building, and most importantly -- keep sharing your work.

If you found this article useful, feel free to let me know. I'm always open to learning, collaboration, and new opportunities.

Now it's your turn: what are you building next? Let me know by sending me a DM! more

Career development

 17h

Your Fear of AI Is Hiding a Bigger Danger


How a viral "stolen résumé" story from Japan reveals the real risk: not machine intelligence, but human reflexes.

A Japanese viral post accused ChatGPT of "stealing" a résumé.

What really happened reveals not a technical failure -- but a human one:

poor design, weak literacy, and our reflex to broadcast fear before fact.

The Viral Panic

In late 2025, a post on Threads went viral in Japan.

A... user claimed that ChatGPT had somehow "stolen" her résumé.

She had asked the AI for help writing a job application. To her shock, it seemed to recall her exact university department and ten years of work history -- information she swore she had never entered. "ChatGPT must have accessed my files without permission," she wrote.

The story spread quickly. Hundreds echoed her fear: AI is reading our data.

But days later, she posted a correction. The culprit wasn't OpenAI's servers, nor some secret database. It was a setting on her iPhone.

She had granted the ChatGPT app access to the device's "Files" folder -- where her résumé PDF happened to sit. The model didn't steal anything; it simply used what it was allowed to read.

How Design Makes Fear Look Plausible

Technically, nothing mysterious happened. Yet the panic was believable because modern app design almost invites it.

First, permissions default to "on." Most users tap "Allow" without reading what that entails. Second, ChatGPT's stock phrase -- "based on information you previously shared" -- creates a false sense of memory. The system means "files you've given me access to," but people hear "things you told me before."

Finally, the UI carries authority. A black interface with a logo and formal tone can make a generated response feel like an official statement. When software aesthetics mimic institutional credibility, hallucinated precision looks like insider knowledge.

Fear doesn't come from the algorithm; it comes from the gap between what the system does and what the interface implies.

What the AI Actually Sees

In most AI-enhanced job platforms, personal data never leaves the service itself.

When a user asks for résumé help, the site's internal database briefly merges stored information -- like past roles or skills -- with the new text prompt, then deletes that temporary bundle after output.

This "momentary merge" happens inside one product boundary, not across the internet. If an app were to pull from external services or local drives without consent, that would be a clear legal violation. In this case, nothing of the sort occurred.

The real issue wasn't surveillance -- it was a misunderstanding of the tool's basic architecture.

The Cultural Layer: Japan's Real-Name Internet

To grasp why this story caught fire, you need Japan's digital context.

Unlike the U.S., where pseudonyms remain common, Japanese users often link Threads or Instagram accounts to their professional identity. The boundary between personal posting and professional visibility is porous.

At the same time, Japanese recruiters regularly Google candidates' names. Surveys by MyNavi and doda show that over 70 percent of hiring staff check social media before interviews. In this environment, a panicked public post isn't just noise -- it's a career artifact.

When that user accused ChatGPT of data theft under her real name, she wasn't just expressing fear; she was unknowingly editing her own professional reputation in real time.

What Europe Is Already Regulating

Europe treats such risks structurally, not emotionally.

In December 2024, Italy's data-protection authority fined OpenAI €15 million for processing personal data without clear legal basis and for insufficient transparency.

(Reuters)

Elsewhere, Clearview AI's massive facial-image scraping has been ruled illegal by multiple European regulators.

(Privacy International)

Europe's approach is to legislate before misunderstanding: to decide who owns data, when consent expires, and how accountability is shared.

Japan, by contrast, relies on cultural restraint and corporate good faith -- a softer infrastructure where ambiguity thrives.

From AI Fear to Social Self-Harm

The Japanese incident wasn't a privacy breach. It was a case study in how fear circulates faster than fact.

Emotion precedes verification: "This is terrifying" travels further than "I misread a permission screen."

Corrections rarely spread; the first post becomes the headline forever. And when social networks promote real names, each emotional misstep is permanently indexed to a person's career.

The woman who feared her résumé was stolen didn't lose her data -- she lost control of her narrative. In a hiring culture where HR managers routinely search applicants' names, that single outburst can echo longer than any technical flaw.

The Real Risk

AI didn't steal her résumé.

But she -- and millions of others like her -- are giving away something harder to recover: credibility.

The problem isn't artificial intelligence; it's our own reflex to panic publicly before understanding privately.

If the 20th century taught us to guard our wallets, the 21st demands we guard our reactions.

Because the next breach of privacy won't come from an algorithm sneaking into your files --

it will come from your own fingers, typing faster than you can think. more

Career development

 18h

How This Founder Turned Data Into a Force for Good


This Plant Kit Brand Is Helping Everyone Become a Plant Parent

Vannessa Haydee Weber never imagined she'd one day run her own research firm. For years, she worked in higher education, helping students, particularly military-connected ones, navigate the complexities of admissions and financial aid. But when she decided to pursue a graduate degree in research psychology and data analytics through... her university's tuition remission program, something clicked.

"At first, I thought it would just be a great addition to my résumé," she recalls. "But about a year in, I realized I didn't just want to incorporate what I was learning into my current field, but I wanted to do something on my own with it."

That "something" became Veracity Research Solutions, a mission-driven research and data analytics firm that helps organizations maximize their impact, while also empowering veterans and military-connected students to access the benefits they've earned.

"The unfortunate reality," Vannessa explains, "is that many veterans aren't given proper information when they separate from service. They don't always know what benefits are available or how to make the most of them. I wanted to change that."

Through Veracity, Vannessa offers compliance training for university staff working with the GI Bill and free workshops for veterans and their families to help them navigate educational benefits. Her drive to make this information accessible is deeply personal: her husband is a veteran, and she's witnessed firsthand the financial and informational gaps many face when returning to civilian life.

"Early on, I decided these workshops needed to be complimentary," she says. But that meant stepping outside her comfort zone to secure sponsors. "I'm definitely an introvert, so asking for financial commitments was hard. But I had to decide: Is it more valuable to me to be comfortable or offer this service complimentary to those who have sacrificed so much for our country."

That mindset shift, she says, changed everything. Within her first month of launching Veracity in 2023, she landed her dream client -- a major U.S. nonprofit with a global footprint -- and hasn't slowed down since. Today, she works with organizations nationwide and has even brought on independent contractors to help manage her growing workload.

Her long-term goal? To create flexible, remote roles for women, particularly single mothers. "If I can offer someone meaningful work that allows them to support their family and still be present for their kids, that would feel like true success," she says.

Vannessa credits the Selfmade community and Verizon Small Business Digital Ready program with helping her find the courage to step out into her community, like joining her local Chamber of Commerce, and building partnerships. "Selfmade pushed me to take myself out of my comfort zone," she says. "And one of Verizon's social media courses really helped me see how even a business centered on data can have a human story behind it."

That human-first approach shines through in everything she does. "At the end of the day," she says, "I just want to use what I know to help others succeed."

It's that spirit -- grounded, generous, and impact-driven -- that made Vannessa Haydee Weber our latest Verizon Challenge Winner. more

Amanda Hollingsworth


Career development 2w
I’m not an ambitious person, I just want a normal, calm job and I’m not chasing promotions. But my boyfriend keeps nagging me every day about why I don’t try to please the boss, don’t take overtime, and don’t agree to work weekends when they ask. He keeps saying I need to build a career and make more money.
Honestly, I’m starting to wonder if I should even stay with him, because I don’t want to... plan anything serious with someone who’ll keep pushing me to work like crazy, while I just want a job I actually enjoy. What would you suggest?

 more
13   

  • ismail Mohammed

    1w

    it's encouraged to have a balanced approach to life, including work and personal time. (peace be upon him) said, "Work for your worldly life as if... you will live forever, and work for your hereafter as if you will die tomorrow.

    This means finding a balance between your worldly responsibilities and your spiritual growth is key. If your job is halal and you're able to fulfill your duties without compromising your faith, then it's okay to prioritize your well-being and happiness.

    Regarding your relationship, emphasizes the importance of mutual respect, kindness, and understanding between partners. If your boyfriend is pushing you to prioritize work over your well-being, it's worth reflecting on whether this is a healthy dynamic for you.
     more

  • Tiffany Smith

    1w

    Only relationships built on "unconditional love" will thrive! If you want to THRIVE in business, inbox me for more details!

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Career development

 22h

ATS-Friendly Creative Resume Revamp


I want to give my current résumé a full refresh so it can sail through applicant-tracking systems while still catching a creative director's eye at first glance. I'm at the mid-level stage of my career and I'll supply all existing content, links to my portfolio, and any metrics you might need -- what I need from you is the strategic polish. The challenge is striking the right balance: clean,... keyword-rich structure for the bots, but a layout that still shows I'm a visual thinker. Subtle use of colour, tasteful icons, and strong hierarchy are welcome, as long as nothing trips common ATS scanners. Speed matters: I'd like a first draft turned around ASAP, preferably within the next day or two. What I Need: => A clean, professional, and modern resume design ATS-compliant formatting (correct fonts, structure, keywords, and no parsing issues) Visual enhancement using: Company logos Project logos (where applicable) Clean infographic-style elements (optional) Proper alignment, spacing, and layout Strong focus on readability and professional branding What I Will Provide :=> My current resume (to be shared after hiring) Company names, project details, and relevant brand assets (if needed) Additional details required for keyword optimization Deliverables: => Final resume in PDF, Word, and editable format ATS-friendly version + visually enhanced version Fonts and source files (if applicable) Ideal Candidate: => Experience in resume design, especially ATS-optimized resumes Knowledge of modern design tools (Figma, Illustrator, Canva, etc.) Ability to balance visual appeal with ATS compatibility Prior experience designing resumes for tech/IT roles is a plus If you have ideas for a matching cover letter template or LinkedIn headline tweaks, let me know and we can add them as a quick extra. more

Career development

 23h

Senior IT CV French Translation


I have a polished English-language résumé written for senior-level Programming Engineer roles in the IT sector, and now I need it rendered into impeccable French. Beyond a direct translation, I want every job title, duty description, and competency phrase adapted to native French equivalents so the document reads as though it was originally drafted for the French market -- hiring managers should... immediately recognise the seniority and technical depth of my profile. You will work from my current Word file, capture the nuance of programming terminology, and reflect the achievements in language that resonates with French recruiters while respecting local conventions on length, structure, and tone. Subtle localisation matters: for example, "Lead Software Engineer" should become the term French employers actually use, not a literal word-for-word conversion. I will supply the existing CV and be available for quick clarifications on acronyms or project details. In return I expect: * A final French CV delivered in both .docx and PDF formats, ready to submit. * Consistent formatting that mirrors (or smartly improves) the original layout. * Zero machine-translation artefacts; every sentence must read naturally to a native speaker. Discretion is key, so please handle all personal information in confidence. If you have prior experience translating senior IT résumés or can share a brief sample of similar work, let me know -- that will help me choose quickly so we can get started. more