The First 90 Days as a Solutions Architect at AWS: A Journey of Growth and Adaptation
Having been a long-time AWS customer and user across various scales – from small deployments to global enterprises – I initially thought this transition would be straightforward. However, AWS had its own distinct approach to communication, and that realization set the tone for my journey.
The onboarding period was primarily focused on mastering AWS’s unique communication style and elevating my existing skills. While there are several core requirements to meet in the first 90 days, they’re all achievable with dedication and focus. What truly stands out is AWS’s relentless pursuit of excellence – every presentation, no matter how polished, receives constructive feedback aimed at continuous improvement. This feedback-rich environment takes some adjustment, but it’s instrumental in driving growth.
One fascinating aspect of AWS’s culture is their approach to hiring. The bar is exceptionally high – you’re typically looking to bring in someone who’s 50% more capable than the current team. This creates an interesting dynamic where you might essentially be hiring your future replacement. However, I’ve come to view this as a powerful motivator to elevate my own performance.
The culture here is distinctly different from the typical “Bay Area” tech environment. It’s intensely performance-driven, focusing on results rather than following the latest workplace trends. While I find this high-performance culture exhilarating, it’s admittedly not for everyone. And yes, you might hear some interesting comments from well-meaning friends about joining a tech giant, but the experience has been invaluable.
For those considering AWS, I highly recommend pursuing the opportunity. The hiring process alone is a masterclass in organizational efficiency. Once you’re in, buckle up for an intense learning experience that continues well beyond the initial 90 days. I’ve acquired a robust set of tools and perspectives that will serve me throughout my career.
The key to success here? Embrace the feedback, stay hungry for knowledge, and remember that even when you’re excelling, there’s always room for improvement. That’s not just an AWS principle – it’s a pathway to professional growth. hashtag#aws hashtag#solutionsarchitect hashtag#loop hashtag#excelling hashtag#growth hashtag#success

https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7299454662745722880/