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Breaking Into Developer Relations (DevRel)

Developer Relations (DevRel) is a growing field focused on building relationships between developers and the products they use. Here’s how to get started:

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1. Understand What DevRel Is

DevRel involves advocacy, education, support, and community-building. Learn about the different roles:

  • Developer Advocate
  • Community Manager
  • Technical Content Creator
  • Developer Experience Engineer

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2. Build Technical Skills

Most DevRel roles require a solid technical foundation. You should:

  • Learn to code (pick a language relevant to your interests)
  • Build side projects or contribute to open source
  • Understand APIs, SDKs, and developer tools

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3. Create and Share Content

Start building your public presence by:

  • Writing blog posts or tutorials
  • Making videos or livestreams
  • Sharing knowledge on platforms like GitHub, Dev.to, or Twitter

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4. Engage With Communities

Join developer communities and participate by:

  • Answering questions
  • Hosting or attending meetups, hackathons, or conferences
  • Supporting others and collaborating on projects

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5. Learn Developer Tools and Communication

  • Get familiar with tools like Git, Markdown, CLI, and docs platforms
  • Practice public speaking and technical writing
  • Understand developer needs and how to advocate for them internally

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6. Apply for DevRel Roles

  • Tailor your resume to highlight both technical and communication skills
  • Showcase your portfolio (GitHub, blog, talks, community work)
  • Look for entry-level roles like Junior Dev Advocate or Community Specialist

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7. Keep Learning

DevRel is constantly evolving. Stay updated by:

  • Following industry leaders
  • Attending conferences or webinars
  • Learning about developer ecosystems and trends