How to speak “developers’ language” when you aren’t one

As a non-technical community manager of the dev community, it can be challenging to navigate the world of technical jargon. I’ve been there and seen that. But, fear not! With a little bit of effort, you can become a pro at speaking the “developer’s language.”
I would like to share my ways to tame this monster. So let’s jump into the topic!

Think of it as a fun challenge to broaden your horizons and expand your knowledge. Take a programming or technical course and dive into the world of coding and tech. It’s like learning a new language — and who doesn’t love a good language challenge? The more you learn, the more confident you’ll feel when communicating with your dev community.
I finished my Frontend BootCamp a few years ago, currently doing my Fullstack course. Do I want to become a dev? Not at all! But trust me, if you want to work with developers, knowing their world is essential.
And it’s amazing how easy access to this knowledge we have today — platforms like Codecademy, Treehouse, and Pluralsight are at our fingertips. Not to mention all the free tutorials. It’s a pity not to try it!

When it comes to understanding technical concepts and terminology, reading documentation is your new best friend. Whether it’s programming language documentation, project specifications, or technical reports, these resources will give you a deeper understanding of the technicalities involved in a project and the language used to describe them. Reading documentation is not just a way to expand your knowledge, it can also be a source of inspiration for new ideas and solutions. So grab a cup of coffee, settle in, and get ready for a thrilling read!

Asking questions is also a crucial component of speaking the “developer’s language.” To be honest — this is my favorite way to acquire knowledge. Not only do I get a great explanation directly from a person who is a specialist, but I also have the opportunity to cut a short chat and get to know the person more closely, something I love. Don’t be afraid to ask, even if they seem basic or simple. Developers love to share their knowledge and expertise, and by asking questions, you’re showing that you value their skills and want to learn more. Plus, it’s a great way to identify areas where you may need further clarification or improvement. Asking questions can be a great opportunity for building strong relationships with your dev community members. They’ll appreciate that you’re taking the time to learn about their work and be more likely to open up to you in the future. This is a really valuable way to create trust between you and your community members.

Attending technical events and conferences is like a treasure trove of knowledge. You get to interact with developers, and experts in the field and learn about the latest trends and technologies. It’s a chance to network, exchange ideas, and build valuable relationships. And let’s be real, who wouldn’t want to attend a conference filled with tech enthusiasts and get a sneak peek into the future of the industry? By attending these events, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the technical world and be able to share your insights and experiences with your dev community.
If you would like to join such events — start with a search on Meetup.

Building trust with your dev community is key to creating a positive and productive environment. By taking the time to educate yourself, asking questions, and attending technical events and conferences, you’re showing your dev community that you’re dedicated to providing the best possible support. And who wouldn’t want to work with someone who’s passionate about their job and committed to learning and growth? By building trust, you’ll foster a sense of community among your members and create a space where they feel valued and supported.

So there you have it! Speaking the “developer’s language” may seem like a daunting task, but with a little effort and a lot of fun, you can become an expert in no time. And remember, the more you know, the better you can support your dev community and help them thrive. Happy learning!