KoryFerbet's comments

KoryFerbet | 14 years ago | on: Rate my name

My rule of thumb when naming anything:

If you have explain it, then it's too complicated

If you're going to go the pun route it needs to be something easy and, as much as I hate to say it, dumbed down.

KoryFerbet | 14 years ago | on: Ask HN: Would you pay for a browser plugin?

I think the best way to do that would be to offer a free plugin with added benefits once you pay for it (like buffer). I look at is similarly to buying an app on a phone, it would largely depend on how useful it would be, how much I would use it, and if I could justify paying money for it.

I have a plug in to remove the ads on the Pandora page, and to show a pop up with song name and artist regardless of what webpage I'm focusing on. I wouldn't pay for that plugin, but a strong ad blocking one could be worth the money.

Do you have something in mind?

KoryFerbet | 14 years ago | on: Ask HN: Who Is Hiring? (May 2012)

Seattle, WA Fulltime

An already profitable Seattle based Startup is looking for mobile developers, both Android and iOS to join their team permanently. They have a fantastic advisory board and great team. Their leaders all have experience taking startups and turning them either public as well as negotiating acquisitions.

We are seeking a self-motivated, creative multi-platform mobile application developer with a passion for pushing the envelope of user experience to create intuitive, useful, and widely-adopted apps. This position is the first of its kind in our organization and as such, you will have an opportunity to make this job your own. Because my client is a startup you will have a chance to leave your thumbprint with a company that is revolutionizing mobile performance.

Key Responsibilities

Develop rich-UI applications for iPhone and/or Android platforms Work with graphics designers to design and implement a rich and intuitive mobile user experience Work collaboratively in a team environment that includes more senior application developers and/or architects Skills Required

Strong familiarity with cutting-edge UI implementations, including underlying threading models Track record of bringing apps to mass market, either solo or in team settings Knowledge of Java on Android and/or Objective-C on iOS Disciplined coding style with an eye toward maintainability Relentlessly high quality standards and extreme attention to detail A history of positive teamwork and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment Experience with integrating multiple aspects of API. B.S. or B.A. in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or similar, or equivalent experience

Bonus Points

Experience working on the NDK Experience with Amazon EC2

You can apply via http://www.bullhornreach.com/job/149588_mobile-application-d...

Or send me an email for more information [email protected]

KoryFerbet | 14 years ago | on: Ask HN: What is the most up and coming city for tech?

I live in Seattle so I'm a bit biased, but I really do think that it's a fantastic city for tech. All of the big dogs are here (amazon, google, facebook, Microsoft) but there are also a lot of very innovative and creative well known startups and smaller companies. (Cheezburger, Tippr, etc..).

I have also heard great things about Austin, I have spent some time there as well and I love it as a city. I just don't know much about it in relation to the tech market.

KoryFerbet | 14 years ago | on: Ask HN: What do you do on your commute?

I also take public transit to work everyday. I spend my time streaming music and reading. One thing I will say, if you are developing a commute app make sure that when you turn it on it doesn't keep other apps ie Pandora, from continuing to play music.

Nothing makes me delete an app faster than when I can't listen to Pandora and play with another app.

KoryFerbet | 14 years ago | on: How do you decide who to follow on Twitter?

I focus on people that I want to interact with, not just see what they're doing. I use a combination of people I meet, companies that I use their services, people that my followees retweet or reply to, blogs/writers.

I tend to keep my number small (130 currently) and regularly go through and remove people that I no longer want to interact with. I don't really see a point in following 1k+ people as it's difficult to get a true understanding of what/who they are.

KoryFerbet | 14 years ago | on: Ask HN: Who is Hiring? (March 2012)

Seattle WA, Permanent positions. Currently working with five different companies all looking for PHP developers. - The worlds largest video chat platform. It's used to host "cam girl" sites so anyone interested must be okay with adult entertainment. - Casual Gaming company is looking for an eCommerce developer to build out their online platform - Profitable startup in the project management SAAS space. - Company that focuses on education. Hosts study guides, book summaries, quizzes, etc.. - Heavily funded social network/eCommerce company

These are all full time permanent positions and job descriptions can be found at http://www.bullhornreach.com/company/jobs.

You can apply via that link or send me an email for more information [email protected]

KoryFerbet | 14 years ago | on: Ask HN: I'm an Army of One Man; what title do I use within my company?

Technical Consultant or something similar. I would stay away from big titles like CEO, CTO, etc... They tend to come off more pretentious than useful. The truth is people will find out how big your company is whether you want them to or not so you might as well be honest with them from the get go. I could see the "VP" title being better, but I guess it really depends on what exactly your company does and who you are handing the business cards out to.

KoryFerbet | 14 years ago | on: Would an in-house coffee waiter improve your team productivity?

Hmm...I think it would have some benefits. The biggest issue I could see is that people need to walk around. I know when I walk down the block to get a coffee it's less about the coffee and more about getting the chance to walk outside and stretch my legs a little bit.

You also might have to introduce a system to give everyone a catheter since the more coffee you drink the more trips to the restroom you'll be taking.

KoryFerbet | 14 years ago | on: Didn't Pass Interview Coding Challenge -- Okay to Ask Why?

There is a chance that you were right on everything, there is also a chance that the question was more vague than what you've thought and you didn't answer exactly what they were looking for.

If you are curious than I would send them a very polite email thanking them for their time and ask where you can improve on your code. If you are asking them for help they will be more likely to respond in hopes of you walking away with a good experience interviewing with them.

KoryFerbet | 14 years ago | on: Startup: Would you pay a small fee to locate a great domain name?

I believe there may be a service there, but it would require more than "here are five domains that I think are quality". You would need some sort of statistical analysis or metrics behind it. What are the advantages/disadvantages of choosing this domain over this one, what are the things that attract customers into being more likely to click on this domain vs that domain, etc...

Not to mention, that as things like Twitter get more and more popular domain names tend to get pushed more into shortened urls where domain name isn't shown.

KoryFerbet | 14 years ago | on: Ask HN: How can I professional without sounding like a "business type"?

I think that would be a good approach, it also might be wise to see if you can find development managers or something below the founders. Depending on the types and sizes of the companies the founders may not be the best person to reach out to. See if the company has any HR on their payroll, once again a simple LinkedIn search can dig that up for you.

The important thing to remember is to be persistent, but don't be annoying. It's a fine line, and you'll have to realize when you're crossing that threshold. ;)

KoryFerbet | 14 years ago | on: Should I switch to Ruby?

As I said, I think the most important thing to decide is what you want to work on. Research Python roles and research Ruby roles, which of the two look like things you'd want to be working with/on? That should be your decision! I know the majority of Python roles I work on tend to pick Python for it's speed so they are generally more for hosting platforms or system development. Ruby roles tend to be the focus for more web development. As I said, those are just what I've seen here in Seattle.

KoryFerbet | 14 years ago | on: PHP Dev wants to learn a framework Symphony or Rails?

I'd fully agree with the last half of this! PHP is a great language for you to have, especially depending on where you live! I know that in Seattle right now we would do anything for a PHP developer!

The next step is to get a lot better at PHP, just learning the language won't be enough you need to become a PHP assassin. Then add JavaScript to your strengths next, strong front end developers are tough to find, get in that space.

And finally, the one thing I urge ALL developers to do, get into mobile! Be sure to take on Java for Android or Objective-C for iOS! If you dominate those, you will be very well off without ever having to worry about the business side of things.

KoryFerbet | 14 years ago | on: Ask HN: How can I professional without sounding like a "business type"?

I think the biggest advice I would lend to you, is get creative. I can't tell you the number of boring white and black resumes I've seen. The tech industry is littered with boring "business type" resumes and cover letters. If you truly want a job with a technology company, research some of the fun technologies out there and use them for your application.

Having a link to a youtube video, a twitter account, github (of what you do know), a cool presentation using sliderocket, etc..

These are the types of things that can set you apart from every other resume that the recruiter is going to find. Finding ways to get acquainted with tech professionals by showing up to meetups they go to. Use LinkedIn as your tool, it is amazing how much information you can find out using the internet!

It's about being proactive and not reactive! I hope this helps some.

KoryFerbet | 14 years ago | on: Should I switch to Ruby?

Judging by the roles that I'm currently working on, having Ruby is a definite plus. Another strong option would be Python, from what I can tell the syntax is similar but most clients are definitely looking for one of those two in addition to your Java.

It also depends what types of companies you want to work for. Most of the startups I work with are looking for Ruby and Python with a Java background where as most the larger older companies are fine bringing on someone with just Java.

I hope that helps a bit and wasn't too much of a ramble.

KoryFerbet | 14 years ago | on: What would you do if you were me?

Depending on how long you've been at the company, this may not be an option but I've seen it before, is there a way that would allow you to work from home one or two days a week? Or maybe work four 10 hour days and have a day off. This would give you an extra day, or some extra time to work on your own side personal projects. Don't ever let yourself quit innovating! If you have an idea find a way to make it work, especially if you feel it's your true calling.
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