Category: Careers Blog

Careers Blog, Find Remote Work, Interviews, Job Applications

Perfecting Your English for Remote Interviews

Navigating the job market in North America as a candidate from Latin America involves numerous challenges, with language barriers often being at the forefront. Perfecting your English for remote interviews not only boosts your confidence but also significantly increases your chances of landing a job. This guide offers practical advice to refine your English communication skills, making you a standout candidate in remote interviews.

Understanding the Importance of English Proficiency

English proficiency is crucial when applying for jobs in North America, as it’s often the primary language of business communication. Excelling in English allows you to:

  • Effectively communicate your ideas and qualifications.
  • Understand and respond to interview questions accurately.
  • Build rapport with interviewers and potential colleagues.

Tips for Improving Your English Communication Skills

1. Practice Regularly

Consistent practice is key to improving your language skills. Engage in daily activities like reading English newspapers, watching English-speaking movies, or listening to podcasts.

2. Expand Your Vocabulary

Learn new words every day and use them in sentences to better your understanding. Apps like Anki or Quizlet offer flashcards that can help memorize vocabulary effectively.

3. Work on Your Pronunciation

Understanding and being understood is crucial in interviews. Use tools like the RhinoSpike to hear real people pronouncing words or sentences, or the Sounds of Speech app to see how to articulate English sounds.

4. Engage in English Conversations

Join language exchange groups or platforms like Tandem or Speaky where you can practice speaking with native English speakers.

Resources for English Practice

ResourceDescriptionLink
BBC LearningProvides language courses and audio, video, quizzes.BBC Learning
DuolingoA gamified language learning app.Duolingo
FluentUUses real-world videos to improve language understanding.FluentU

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overusing Fillers

Using fillers like “um,” “like,” “you know,” can make you seem less confident. Practice clear and concise responses to reduce reliance on these words.

2. Literal Translations

Avoid translating idioms or sayings directly from Spanish to English, as they may not make sense. Learn their English equivalents instead.

3. Neglecting Body Language

Non-verbal cues are as important as verbal communication. Practice maintaining good posture, eye contact, and a confident smile.

Tools to Enhance Communication

Grammarly

Use Grammarly to check your written English, including emails and practice essay responses for interviews. It provides real-time correction suggestions.

HelloTalk

This app connects you with native speakers to practice conversational English and exchange feedback on language use.

Conclusion

Mastering English for remote interviews is a step-by-step process that demands dedication and strategic practice. By enhancing your language skills, you not only increase your confidence but also bolster your potential for securing a rewarding position within North American companies. It’s not just about passing an interview—it’s about preparing for a thriving career in a global workplace.

Next Steps

Are you ready to take your English communication skills to the next level and explore exciting job opportunities? Start today by utilizing the tools and resources shared in this guide. Visit Mismo Jobs to find your next career opportunity and apply your improved English skills in real-world scenarios. Don’t wait—your dream job in North America could be just one click away!

Careers Blog, Engineering

React Component Libraries

Have you ever heard about React component libraries? I will discuss two commonly used today: MUI and Mantine, both open source.

React component libraries assist developers in building pages or applications more efficiently by offering functional components that can be seamlessly integrated into React projects. These components possess specific properties tailored to their respective functions. 

Plenty of components are within these libraries, such as form elements, menus, icons, layout elements, etc. These are commonly used in designs to construct pages or parts of an application.  Having these core components pre-built and easily customizable significantly speeds up the development process. 

An important point to note is that even though the components are common and may appear in multiple applications, they won’t necessarily look the same in each one. This is because they offer a variety of properties that can be customized based on specific needs. Moreover, developers have the flexibility to use CSS properties to further tailor the components to match a design closely. I can confidently say that you can effectively replicate any design created by the UX Team and implement it using one of these React component libraries.

Another important feature to consider about these libraries is that the components are fully responsive and have specific properties tailored for it. This makes them even more advantageous for development, especially when adhering to the  “mobile first” approach. With these libraries, developers can easily implement different layouts based on screen size or device type. They can also hide components on specific screen sizes or provide different looks for various devices. 

Now, let’s delve a bit deeper into each library to understand what they offer and how we can make an informed choice between them.

MUI – Material UI

In addition to the general components mentioned earlier, MUI offers something called “MUI X,” which comprises advanced components used for complex or specific use cases. These include the Data Grid, Date and Time Pickers, Charts, and other specialized features. MUI also provides commercial paid versions (Pro and Premium), offering more customizable and specialized components. For instance, the Data Grid provides more robust features, allowing for the creation of even better tables.   These paid versions can be an alternative for companies that frequently use tables on their pages and are willing to invest more to enhance their  UX without dedicating expensive time to development.

MUI also provides a wide range of icons that can be utilized on web pages. This feature is particularly useful for menus or buttons, where icons are often essential. These icons come with properties that make it easy to specify color and size. Another valuable component MUI offers is “Typography”, which acts as a wrapper for text. The benefit here is that you can define font types and apply them throughout the entire application. So, if you need to update, for example, a main-level header, you can simply modify the configuration file,  and all typographies using the same font family will automatically reflect the change. 

Mantine

One of the standout features of the Mantine library is its support for theme creation.  This feature lets you specify various properties, such as colors and fonts. It’s commonly used when designers establish a company palette for different screens and pages. With Mantine, these settings can be defined in a configuration file, and the components will automatically apply those colors and fonts. This makes it easy to customize for future updates, requiring only minor changes to the code.

Another intriguing feature of Matine is its hooks library. Hooks are a concept in React that allows you to extract logic used across components in a reusable manner. Mantine’s hooks library includes various functional scenarios such as screen changes, user idle detection, form management, and element movement. This allows the code to be executed whenever these scenarios occur. For instance, if a user resizes the screen, you can retrieve the new dimensions and update the components accordingly. Similarly, you can detect when the user is idle to display a screensaver or initiate a redirect after a period of inactivity, providing enhanced user experience and functionality. 

Regarding payment, Mantine does not offer paid versions or premium features requiring a license to access additional components. This is a significant advantage, as all available components are included in the open-source version, making them accessible to all users without any extra cost.

As described above, these libraries are really powerful for developing on a day-to-day basis on applications; whether to use one library or another depends on the requirements of the team, taking into account what kind of components are needed and which of those are available to use and customize on each one. What I can tell for sure is that both of them have good support in terms of new versions, bug fixing, coding standards, and up-to-date features, which gives the assurance of using an excellent feature for your project.

If you want to learn more about these libraries, here are the links to its official documentation for further information:

Written by:

Kevin Alfredo Ureña
Sr. Full Stack Engineer
Country: Costa Rica

Careers Blog, Employee Spotlight, Talent Spotlight

Mismo Employee Spotlight: Rafael Mora

At Mismo, we know our greatest strength is our people. That’s why we’re committed to building exceptional remote software development teams that seamlessly integrate into companies worldwide, driving remarkable results. Countless organizations have found success by expanding their development capacity through Mismo, But at the heart of these successful teams are truly outstanding individuals.

We believe in celebrating the incredible people who make Mismo thrive. Our employee spotlights shine a light on our team members, the meaningful connections we’ve built, and their unwavering dedication to fueling our success.

Meet : Rafael Mora
Sr. Software Engineer – Engineering Lead at Mismo
Costa Rica

  • Tell us a little about yourself

    I’m Rafael Mora, a Senior Software Engineer and Engineering Manager at Mismo. With 16 years of experience in software engineering, my career has been a constant learning and growth journey. I’ve worked across various industries, including banking, e-commerce, and healthcare, contributing to my diverse skill set. Over the years, I’ve gained expertise in numerous technologies and programming languages, such as Java, C#, Python, Node.js, React.js, React Native, and AngularJS, to name a few. My experience extends to working with databases like Sql Server, Oracle DB, PostgreSQL, Firebase, and cloud services such as AWS. This broad exposure has equipped me with the tools to tackle various challenges and innovate in my field.

  • What initially attracted you to engineering and how have you found inspiration in this career?

    My initial interest in engineering was sparked by my love for video games; I thought the field would be similar to this interest. However, as I progressed in my studies, I realized the significant impact that technology could have on solving real problems. This realization shifted my perspective, motivating me to explore how to contribute positively through my work. Throughout my career, I have worked with healthcare companies serving various groups, including children, adults, and individuals facing mental health issues. The understanding that even a small contribution from me could benefit millions of people worldwide has been advantageous. This journey has expanded my view of what engineering can achieve and strengthened my desire to use technology for the benefit of others. It’s a powerful reminder that the work we do in tech can have widespread effects, improving lives and communities.

  • What innovation or technical advancement have you been a part of that you consider to have made a milestone in your engineering field?

    One of the most significant contributions I’ve made within the engineering field is developing technology solutions for healthcare. Working with companies focusing on health care for different age groups and mental health has allowed me to be part of innovative projects that truly make a difference. For example, I’ve participated in creating software that improves patient care and streamlines healthcare services for children and adults alike. These projects have advanced the integration of technology in medicine and shown me the direct impact of engineering on improving people’s lives. Being part of these advancements, especially in a field as crucial as healthcare, has been a milestone in my career. It underscores the potential of engineering to solve real-world problems and improve millions of lives worldwide, aligning with my vision of technology as a tool for good.

  • What made you choose Mismo?

    I chose Mismo because I love facing challenges and learning new things. Mismo offers many opportunities to grow and do different tasks, which I find exciting. They also offer great benefits and have a friendly work environment. All this made me feel that Mismo was the right place for me.

  • How would you describe the work environment at Mismo?

    The work environment at Mismo is respectful and welcoming, filled with talented individuals. It’s a place where everyone’s contributions are valued, and there’s a strong sense of community among colleagues. Mismo offers excellent benefits, which shows how much they care about the well-being of their employees. One of the things I appreciate most is the absence of micromanagement, allowing for a sense of autonomy and trust. Additionally, there are plenty of opportunities for growth and advancement, encouraging personal and professional development. Mismo fosters a positive and supportive atmosphere that motivates everyone to do their best.

  • What learning and development opportunities have you had at Mismo, and how have you utilized these opportunities to grow as a professional?

    At Mismo, I’ve had great chances to learn and grow. They helped me get a Scrum certification, which taught me a lot about organizing projects better. This has made a big difference in my work.

    I also moved up from being a team lead to an engineering lead. This move was a big deal because I could take on more responsibility and help guide our projects more. Mismo gave me the support and chances I needed to make this happen.

    In short, Mismo has helped me become better at my job by offering lots of learning opportunities and chances to move up.

  • What aspects of working at Mismo’s engineering team make you proud and motivate you in your daily tasks?

    Working with Mismo’s engineering team makes me proud and motivated daily for several reasons. First, the people here are amazing. Everyone is supportive and intelligent, which makes working together a great experience. Then, there are the opportunities Mismo gives us to grow and learn, which means I’m constantly improving and facing new challenges. Finally, the projects we work on are exciting and vital. We get to solve real problems and make a difference, which feels rewarding.

  • How do you believe the company and engineering can positively impact the world people’s lives and make a difference in their respective industries?

    I believe Mismo has a big positive impact on the world and people’s lives through our work. Working on a mental health project has shown me how our expertise can directly help people by providing better tools and services for mental health care. Beyond specific projects, Mismo helps other companies by finding the right professionals they need to succeed. This means we’re helping our direct clients and contributing to the broader community by ensuring these companies can offer better services or products. Whether improving mental health care or supporting other industries, Mismo’s work touches lives and brings about positive changes in various sectors.

  • What Mismo policies or practices have helped you improve your work-life balance?

    The policies and practices implemented by Mismo have significantly enhanced my work-life balance, making a notable difference in my productivity and overall well-being. Here are the key policies that have been particularly beneficial:

    • Flexible PTO: Allows for taking time off as needed, promoting rest and effective work management.
    • Internet Reimbursement: Eases the financial burden of maintaining high-speed internet for work.
    • Home Office Setup: Supports in creating a productive and dedicated workspace at home.
    • Birthday Day Off: Offers a day off on one’s birthday, celebrating individuality and well-being.
    • Referral Engineering Bonus: Incentivizes bringing in quality talent, enhancing team growth and cohesion.
    • Parental Leave: Provides comprehensive time off for new parents, valuing family time without the stress of work or financial concerns.
  • What inspiring advice would you give someone considering a career in engineering or looking to join a company like Mismo?

    In engineering, keep learning, embrace balance, and choose a company like Mismo that supports growth and values well-being. Innovate, collaborate, and remember to enjoy the journey!

  • What tools or technologies do you use most frequently in your daily work as an engineer at Mismo?

    As an engineer at a company like Mismo, where the focus is likely on cutting-edge solutions and efficient workflows, the tools and technologies I use most frequently in my daily work include:

    – React JS
    – React Native
    – Apollo
    – Python
    – PostgreSQL
    – AWS

    These tools and technologies form the core of my engineering toolkit at Mismo, enabling me to contribute effectively to our projects’ success by building reliable, scalable, and high-quality software solutions.

Careers Blog, Find Remote Work, Job Applications, Press Releases

5 common mistakes when searching for remote work and how to avoid them

Bogotá (Colombia), April 2024. In the last decade, remote work has experienced exponential growth, providing employers and employees with a flexible and convenient alternative. Besides its evident comfort, telecommuting also offers a unique opportunity to balance professional and personal life, making it an especially attractive option for many professionals. This modality not only eliminates the need for daily commutes, reducing stress and time spent on transportation, but also allows for greater autonomy and freedom in time management, facilitating the reconciliation of work and personal responsibilities. This well-being and flexibility-focused approach promotes increased job satisfaction and productivity, while enhancing employees’ quality of life.

By embracing remote work, companies are leading a shift towards a more inclusive and individual-focused work culture. This change goes beyond just the physical location from where tasks are performed, as it entails a reevaluation of organizational practices and policies to accommodate the individual needs and preferences of employees. Organizations are implementing flexible work policies and wellness programs that promote a healthy balance between work and personal life, resulting in more engaged, motivated, and happy employees. This evolution towards a more flexible and well-being-centered work culture not only benefits employees but also contributes to the long-term success of companies by improving talent retention, productivity, and employer brand reputation.

However, despite the evident benefits and the growing interest in this work modality among many Colombians seeking a better balance between personal and professional life, there are still challenges to overcome when searching for remote job opportunities. These challenges may escape the attention of applicants but can significantly impact their chances of accessing meaningful job roles and achieving desired professional success. It is crucial to thoroughly explore these challenges to fully understand how to avoid them and capitalize on the opportunities that online jobs offer. Below, from Mismo, we detail the most common mistakes and effective strategies to successfully navigate them.

  1. Failing to keep professional social networks like LinkedIn up to date: By neglecting to update profiles and actively engage on these platforms, professionals risk losing valuable connections with recruiters and potential employers, thereby reducing their chances of accessing meaningful remote job opportunities. To improve, it is essential to optimize and keep professional social networks updated, actively interact on the platform, and establish meaningful connections with other professionals in the field to increase visibility and maximize networking and remote job opportunities.
  1. Underestimating the importance of soft skills: Neglecting the development of soft skills during the job application process can pose a significant challenge. The lack of competencies such as communication, teamwork, and adaptability can diminish candidates’ ability to stand out in a remote work environment, where effective collaboration and adaptability are essential. This situation reduces their chances of success in an increasingly virtual and globalized job market. Therefore, it is imperative to prioritize strengthening these skills before applying for remote jobs. Actively participating in specific training programs and regularly practicing these skills in work and social contexts can make a significant difference in the candidate’s competitiveness.
  1. Failing to tailor the resume for remote work: Submitting a generic resume or even one generated by artificial intelligence or falsified, without highlighting skills and experiences relevant to remote work, can significantly decrease the chances of being selected for an interview. By not personalizing the CV, the opportunity to highlight indispensable attributes such as autonomy, time management, and the ability to work effectively without direct supervision is wasted.

“Adapting the resume for remote work is not just a suggestion, it’s a necessity. In an increasingly digitized world, employers are seeking talent that can not only excel at a distance but also lead in it. That’s why I urge candidates to turn their resume into a window showcasing their ability to innovate, collaborate, and succeed in the world of remote work,” says Diego Gamboa, Chief Technology Officer of Mismo.

  1. Ignoring continuous professional development: Failing to invest in the development of skills and knowledge relevant to remote work can restrict growth opportunities in a highly competitive job market. Stagnation in learning and acquiring new competencies can leave professionals lagging behind, as the work environment demands adaptability and continuous updating. Therefore, it is crucial to invest in the constant improvement of soft and technical skills, such as time management and virtual communication, to ensure not only professional advancement but also a solid competitive position in the current and future job market.
  1. Neglecting professional image in virtual environments: A careless appearance or unprofessional personal presentation can negatively impact employers’ and colleagues’ perception of your professionalism and credibility, which could decrease your chances of success in the selection process. It is crucial to pay attention to your appearance, ensuring a polished look and impeccable presentation during virtual interactions, to project a solid professional image and make a positive impression on recruiters.

It is crucial to avoid these common mistakes and adopt a proactive and strategic approach when seeking remote employment to make the most of job opportunities. It should be noted that there are platforms like Mismo Jobs that offer a wide variety of remote job vacancies available today. These spaces provide professionals with the opportunity to explore different options and move towards a successful career in the realm of remote work.

Careers Blog, Employee Spotlight, Talent Spotlight

Mismo Employee Spotlight: Rodrigo Imenes

At Mismo, we recognize that our most valuable asset is our exceptional team. We provide remote software development teams that integrate smoothly with the existing tech departments of companies worldwide, leading to remarkable results. Numerous organizations have partnered with Mismo to expand their remote development teams, which helps them fulfill their technological goals. Central to these successful teams are truly outstanding individuals.

We prioritize celebrating our fantastic employees and the significant contributions they bring to Mismo and our vibrant company culture. Our employee spotlights are dedicated to our team members, emphasizing the genuine relationships we’ve built with them and our clients, and giving a nod to their steadfast dedication over the years.


Meet :  Rodrigo Imenes

Sr. Software Engineer
Brazil

  • Tell us a little about yourself.

    Hello! My name is Rodrigo Imenes, people usually call me Imenes. I am married and have two children, a 4-year-old girl and an 11-month-old baby. I am 30 years old and have worked in the field for over 10 years. I’ve been here since November 2022

  • What initially attracted you to engineering, and how have you found inspiration in this career?

    When I was a child, I wanted to be a chemical engineer. I’ve always really liked logic, mathematics, and things like that. I ended up seeing my older brother graduate in Computer Science, and that’s where my passion began. I saw him programming and learned a lot from him until I entered college, and then I found myself in the profession once and for all. After a while, he stopped programming and became a Product Manager, and I continued programming.

  • What innovation or technical advancement have you been a part of that you consider to have made a milestone in your engineering field?

    There were some big milestones in my career. I worked at an e-commerce company, where we launched several features that are still used today. The first project I worked on in my life was a chat for a company here in my city, which is still live today with several clients. Both were exciting challenges and a lot of learning that I will always carry.

  • What made you choose Mismo?

    To be quite honest, I found Mismo halfway. I was doing a test for a friend’s company, and in the final stage, after going through all the company’s stages, I was introduced to Mismo. From then on, I enjoyed the company more and more every day, where the people were very helpful and always helped me and did everything they could to help me do my job. I have great affection for Mismo, and I am proud to be part of it!

  • How would you describe the work environment at Mismo?

    The environment here is very pleasant. We have several activities during the week that connect us with people we end up not talking much about (because they work for other clients). People are very receptive and are always ready to help

  • What learning and development opportunities have you had at Mismo, and how have you utilized them to grow as a professional?

    Here, I have the opportunity to learn a lot about different uses of technology, as we are in contact with people who work with other clients (generally with very different stacks). It’s really cool to learn about other frameworks and technologies.

  • What aspects of working at Mismo’s engineering team make you proud and motivate you in your daily tasks?

    Being part of Mismo is knowing that we have people from different regions, but all very good, which makes it cool to share and learn so many different things, be it technology, life and many other things.

  • How do you believe the company and engineering can positively impact the world and people’s lives and make a difference in their respective industries?

    Mismo’s work greatly helps people’s lives as it allows people to work for companies from other parts of the world, which allows greater flexibility in terms of hours, salary and also cultural issues. In my case, it’s having time with my children, allowing me to work from home in a large company. Seeing them grow and being around to see it is the greatest gift in my life

  • What Mismo policies or practices have helped you improve your work-life balance?

    We have some activities here that I will carry with me forever, one of them was definitely the day we cooked with our family and made Tiramisu. It was a very special moment where I cooked with my 4-year-old daughter, and despite the mess, everything went well! We also have weekly activities that are generally a good time to “disconnect” for a few minutes (which helps me as I always forget to take breaks during the day, hahaha)

  • What inspiring advice would you give someone considering a career in engineering or looking to join a company like Mismo?

    My advice is to study English and always be open to learning new technologies. Look for market trends, such as the most used frameworks, and study them a lot!

  • What tools or technologies do you use most frequently in your daily work as an engineer at Mismo?

    My daily life is full of React and Ruby on Rails. Now we are also using some things from OpenAI to drive growth in AI

Careers Blog, Find Remote Work, Job Applications, News, Press Releases

Remote work in the USA: Opportunities for Colombians with salaries of over $10 million COP

Bogotá (Colombia), March 2024. With the arrival of COVID-19, remote work has become one of the preferred options for numerous transnational companies. This trend, which has been gaining momentum in Colombia, responds to the desire of many people to work from home to ensure their safety and well-being and keep abreast of new trends. In addition, the savings in commuting time and associated costs, such as transportation, clothing, and food, are also significant advantages.

This new way of working has challenged the deeply-rooted belief that physical presence is indispensable for collaboration and productivity. As more workers experience the benefits of telecommuting, companies have begun to see the advantages of hiring people from other countries without the need for them to relocate. This dynamic has streamlined hiring processes and reduced costs associated with relocation. Similarly, it allows companies to access a wider range of international talent without having to worry about the logistical and legal issues that often arise when moving foreign employees. This contributes to greater diversity and innovation in the workplace, while also increasing the company’s competitiveness on a global level.

Currently, there are numerous job opportunities in areas such as engineering and software development that are seeking Colombian professionals, who are sought after by these companies for their solid academic background and their ability to adapt to new situations. These vacancies require a combination of technical and soft skills, as well as fluency in English, especially at the B2 level or higher according to the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR). Candidates must have previous experience in the industry to meet the demands of these positions and contribute to innovation and technological development.

According to leading job portals like GlassDoor or El Empleo, salaries for positions such as FullStack Engineers (one of the most in demand) range between 8 and 10 million Colombian pesos per month. This level of remuneration is considered highly competitive, especially because many of these opportunities are paid in dollars. It is worth noting that this phenomenon of attractive salaries is not exclusive to Colombia, but is observed throughout Latin America, due to the strengthening of the dollar against the currencies of the region.

Companies like the Software consultancy Mismo actively seek professionals in specialized areas such as FullStack engineering and Cloud Computing. In fact, according to the previously mentioned job portals, specialties like Cloud Computing can offer monthly salaries of up to $15 million Colombian pesos. It is essential to highlight that these salaries depend on the company for which one works, which implies that they could be significantly higher.

“The positions offered to Colombian professionals in international companies provide a valuable space to experience a global work environment that fosters innovation, continuous learning, and exposure to diverse cultures and business practices. These types of jobs, with attractive salaries and growth alternatives, are an excellent option for those looking to expand their professional horizons and improve their career development without having to leave home,” indicates Diego Gamboa, Chief Technology Officer at Mismo.

The executive highlights the importance of using specific keywords such as ‘remote work’, ‘job opportunities abroad’ (or country of preference), ‘competitive salaries’, and ‘professional positions’ when searching for jobs online. These terms allow filtering the results to find vacancies that fit the candidate’s skills and experience.

“It is essential to identify the companies of our interest based on the benefits they offer, the technologies and industry in which they operate. Let us not forget that these companies frequently share job offers, information, articles, and community-oriented activities through their social networks, such as LinkedIn, Instagram, or Facebook,” says Gamboa.

The space Mismo Jobs hosts a wide variety of job vacancies for interested professionals. On this site, applicants can not only explore employment opportunities but also receive guidance and advice during their international job search.

Careers Blog, Engineering

Introduction to Machine Learning: Breaking Down the Basics

In 2023, “AI” has been declared the word of the year by the Collins Dictionary. According to the publishers, the use of this term has quadrupled. It can be asserted that 2023 will be remembered as the year that ushered in a new era of digital technology.

Wherever we turn, the presence of AI is evident in our daily lives – whether it’s in the creation of personal photos, video dubbing, the latest versions of company chatbots, or even in the new Beatles song playing on radio and music streaming platforms. This leads us to a question posed long ago by the mathematician and computer scientist, Alan Turing:

Can machines think?

This query forms part of a technical exercise proposed by the scientist in his 1950 article, famously dubbed the imitation game. In this game, a human judge engages with both a machine and a human without knowing which is which. If the judge cannot reliably distinguish between them based on their responses, the machine is deemed to have passed the Turing Test, showcasing a degree of artificial intelligence. The objective is to evaluate a machine’s capability for human-like conversation and behaviour.

This test serves as a potential origin for what we now recognize as machine learning. The prospect of encoding thoughts on computers, akin to those of living beings, marked a significant milestone for humanity. Presently, this concept finds application in diverse areas, with certain tasks exhibiting superior performance compared to those carried out by humans.

Decoding the Jargon

Here is my selection of terms that often confuse:

  1. Artificial Intelligence (AI): The expansive field aiming to develop intelligent machines capable of emulating human cognition.
  2. Machine Learning (ML): A branch of AI that concentrates on algorithms and statistical models, empowering systems to discern patterns and make decisions without explicit programming.
  3. Deep Learning: A specialized variant of machine learning that utilizes neural networks with multiple layers to extract high-level features from data.
  4. Statistical Learning: The broader concept encompassing machine learning, emphasizing the utilization of statistical methods to formulate predictions or decisions.

Machine learning

Tom Mitchel once stated, “A computer program is said to learn from experience E with respect to some class of tasks T and performance measure P, if its performance at tasks in T, as measured by P, improves with experience E.​”. This might sound complex but let’s simplify it.

Imagine creating a program to predict the accumulated precipitation in the next hour based on past data. The task (T) here is to estimate the precipitation accumulation for the upcoming hour, with the performance (P) measure being some error metric, such as the difference between the predicted and observed values. The experience (E) involves various attempts to make the forecast. The program learns as its prediction approaches the observed values during these experiences. The program learns as its predictions approach the observed values during these experiences. The process by which the program learns is linked to a predefined set of configurations known as hyperparameters.

Types of Machine Learning

In general, there 3 types of machine learning:

Supervised Learning

In this paradigm, the model is provided with a dataset and already knows what the correct output should resemble; in other words, each given example has an associated label or target. A model based on supervised learning endeavours to identify the mapping from input to output, allowing it to offer precise predictions when presented with news, unseen data. This is particularly applicable in image recognition, speech recognition, and spam filtering scenarios.

Supervised learning algorithms can be categorized into regression and classification problems. In regression tasks, the model must aim to fit a function that best approximates the input data with the output data. Classification models seek to fit a function that best distinguishes a set of categorical variables.

Let’s consider a scenario where a botanist collects measurements associated with iris flowers, including the length and width of the petals and the length and width of the sepals, all measured in centimeters. These iris flowers have been previously identified by an expert botanist as belonging to the species setosa, versicolor, or virginica. If we want to build a machine learning model that can learn from the measurements of these irises, whose species is known, so that we can predict the species for a new iris, we are dealing with a classification problem. This is because we aim to categorize new irises based on a labeled dataset.

Now, imagine that we want to create an algorithm that predicts the price of a house based on its size and location in the real estate market.  Price as a function of size and location is a continuous output, so this is a regression problem.

Unsupervised Learning

In contrast, unsupervised learning is a technique that tackles problems with little or no prior knowledge of what our results should resemble, using unlabeled data. This technique follows the outlined flow below:

So, imagine you have a basket of various fruits, but you don’t know which fruits belong to which category. Through unsupervised learning, the algorithm might group the fruits based on similarities in features like shape, color, and size. The algorithm, without any prior knowledge of specific fruit names, autonomously identifies clusters, revealing, for instance, that apples, oranges, and bananas share certain characteristics.

Reinforcement Learning

This subset of machine learning enables an AI to acquire knowledge through experimentation and feedback from its actions. This feedback can be either negative or positive to maximize cumulative reward. 

In a certain sense, we can say that RL shares similarities with supervised learning when it involves mapping between input and output. However, in RL, the agent autonomously decides what actions to take to accomplish a task correctly. 

This approach finds significant application in games like chess, where an agent refines its strategy based on accumulated experiences over time. Consider another example: suppose we want to develop an algorithm that guides a robot to explore and clean a room. It receives positive reinforcement when it successfully cleans a dirty area and experiences negative reinforcement when encountering obstacles or failing to clean certain areas.  Through this feedback loop, the robotic vacuum learns to navigate efficiently, avoiding obstacles and optimizing its cleaning strategy over time.

Conclusion

In conclusion, delving into the realm of AI is akin to embarking on a journey of continual adjustments and twists. Changes don’t happen in the blink of an eye; they’re more like a slow burn. Yet, many individuals overlook these shifts. The trick? It’s all about hitting the books, maintaining a vigilant eye on the everyday grind, and giving things thoughtful consideration. These skills aren’t just useful; they’re the secret sauce for staying on the AI adaptation rollercoaster. No quick fixes here; it’s an ongoing commitment. So, let’s keep our learning hats on, stay curious, and ride the waves of AI’s ever-evolving journey!

Warning: This article was written with AI help 😉

Joyce Araujo

Sr. Software Engineer

References:

Mitchell, Tom M. 1997. Machine Learning. First. McGraw-Hill Science/Engineering/Math.

Turing, Alan 1950 https://academic.oup.com/mind/article/LIX/236/433/986238

BBC News, AI named word of the year by Collins Dictionary https://www.bbc.com/news/entertainment-arts-67271252

Andreas C. Müller & Sarah Guido. Introduction to Machine Learning with Python: A Guide for Data Scientists.

York University, what is reinforcement learning https://online.york.ac.uk/what-is-reinforcement-learning/ 

Unsupervised learning image

https://nixustechnologies.com/unsupervised-machine-learning/

[🌷✨ May this month-end be filled with renewal, cooperation, 🌟]

Careers Blog, Employer Blog, Hiring

Success stories of Latin American developers

Introduction

In the vibrant tech landscape of Latin America, a revolution is underway. A wave of talented developers is rising, armed with innovative ideas, technical prowess, and a passion for pushing boundaries. Mismo, at the forefront of this revolution, is a witness and a key player in nurturing this talent, connecting them with global opportunities that recognize their value and potential. Here, we share inspiring stories of Latin American developers who have achieved remarkable success in their careers, thanks to their relentless drive and Mismo’s unwavering support.

The Journey of Transformation

Case Study: NFX and the Power of Strategic Partnership

Imagine a scenario where a developer from Argentina partners with NFX, a venture capital firm, leveraging Mismo’s platform. Through Mismo, the developer contributes to building a state-of-the-art fintech solution, enabling NFX to streamline investment processes and enhance decision-making. This collaboration showcases the developer’s exceptional skills and highlights how Mismo facilitates impactful partnerships.

Revinate: Revolutionizing Hospitality with Tech Talent

Consider the collaboration between a team of developers from Brazil and Revinate, aiming to develop a comprehensive hotel guest experience platform. With Mismo’s support, the team introduces innovative features, transforming customer engagement and operational efficiency for hotels worldwide. This success story underscores Mismo’s role in driving tech solutions that cater to global markets.

A Decade of Growth: Building a Family

Drawing inspiration from Mismo’s journey, envision a narrative where developers, over 12 years, grow alongside the company, contributing to and celebrating milestones. This evolution from a modest startup to a leading tech consultancy exemplifies the power of community, shared goals, and sustained growth, emphasizing the familial spirit that Mismo fosters.

Remote Culture Mastery: Mismo’s Blueprint

In a world where remote work has become the norm, Mismo stands out by showcasing an effective 100% remote organizational culture. Stories of developers like Kevin Venegas, Marjorie Valverde Fallas, and Marcos Aruj illustrate the seamless integration of work and life balance, professional development, and community engagement, all enabled by Mismo’s innovative remote work policies.

Leadership in Engineering: A Path to Profitability

Lastly, envision insights from Mismo on how engineering leaders can steer their companies towards profitability in 2024. Through strategic talent management, fostering innovation, and embracing efficiency, Mismo not only guides companies to success but also empowers developers to be at the forefront of driving change.

Conclusion: A Future Without Limits

The success stories of Latin American developers with Mismo are not just narratives of individual achievement but are testaments to the collaborative spirit, innovation, and boundless potential of the Latin American tech community. As Mismo continues to bridge the gap between talent and opportunity, the future holds limitless possibilities for developers and companies alike.

Through dedication, innovation, and the right partnerships, Latin American developers are not just participating in the global tech scene; they are leading it. Mismo is proud to be a part of their journey, and we invite you to join us in celebrating their success and contributing to a future where technology knows no borders.

Careers Blog, Mismo Blog, Press Releases

The 10 Most Coveted Professions by AI in Colombia

Bogotá (Colombia), February 2024. The exciting universe of artificial intelligence (AI) unfolds every day as a stage full of extraordinary professional opportunities. From automation to advanced decision-making, intelligent technologies are completely reshaping the way we live and work globally.

Indeed, Colombia is part of this revolution, offering multiple job opportunities in the development, maintenance, and improvement of these technologies. These jobs are not only on the rise but also redefine the traditional notion of labor, creating a new work paradigm.

It is worth noting that the scope of artificial neural networks goes beyond this labor transformation: it is a source of inspiration for young people to dive into STEM careers. Precisely, the motivation to enroll in software-related programs has been experiencing constant growth for the past couple of years, driven by the allure of actively participating in the creation and evolution of innovative technologies. Similarly, the possibility of contributing to change and being at the forefront of the tech revolution motivates these enthusiasts to explore a range of opportunities.

Colombia is part of this revolution offering multiple job possibilities in the development, maintenance, and enhancement of such technologies. These jobs are not only on the rise but also redefine the traditional notion of work, creating a new work paradigm.

It’s worth noting that the scope of artificial neural networks goes beyond labor transformation; it serves as an inspiration for young people to dive into STEM careers. Specifically, the motivation to enroll in software-related programs has been experiencing steady growth for the past couple of years, driven by the allure of actively participating in the creation and evolution of innovative technologies. Similarly, the opportunity to contribute to change and be at the forefront of the tech revolution motivates these enthusiasts to explore a range of educational alternatives linked to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

Now, the job vacancies sought by Artificial Intelligence not only offer competitive salaries but also provide unparalleled benefits. From fostering mental well-being and maintaining a balance between personal and professional life to constant immersion in multicultural teams at large companies, the professional journey in this field unfolds as a fascinating path to success.

Within this environment, certain careers emerge as the most coveted by artificial intelligence. The demand is booming, and the opportunities are endless for those with experience as:

  1. Full Stack Developer
  2. DevOps Engineer
  3. Data Scientist
  4. Cybersecurity Expert
  5. Mobile Application Developer
  6. Machine Learning Engineer
  7. Robotic Process Automation (RPA) Specialist
  8. Data Analyst
  9. Network Engineer
  10. Systems Architect

According to Diego Gamboa, Chief Technology Officer at the software consultancy firm Mismo, which currently has relevant job openings, “artificial intelligence reshapes the business landscape and initiates a significant transformation in the very essence of professionals by automating tasks, enhancing strategic decision-making, and opening new frontiers of innovation. This marks the beginning of an era where collaboration between humans and machines redefines the very concept of efficiency and business excellence.”

“This revolution is not simply about adapting to a new business environment; it propels a fundamental shift in skills, perspectives, and roles of individuals in the workforce, ushering in a new era of adaptability and vision in the evolution of careers,” explains the executive.

Those interested in applying for these opportunities should have a minimum English level of B2 according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), demonstrate a motivation for constant learning, and cultivate soft skills such as effective communication and creative problem-solving. Adaptability and ethical data management are also indispensable.

There are several platforms that offer possibilities for those seeking jobs in these areas, with Mismo Remote Jobs being one of the prominent ones. In this space, applicants not only have access to job vacancies but also find guidance and support in their international job search.

Find Remote Work, Insights

These will be the most in-demand professions in Argentina for 2024

Buenos Aires (Argentina), January 2024. With an exciting conclusion of 2023, Argentina is gearing up for a workforce transformation driven by technological advances that promise to redefine the professional landscape. Expectations for 2024 are optimistic, anticipating a significant change due to the adoption of innovative technologies.

Connectivity and technological advances stand as the pillars of the local job market for the new year. In this context, jobs linked to technological development are projected to be the most demanded, providing unprecedented opportunities for those looking to excel in both software and hardware in the digital world.

Professionals such as Full Stack developers, data scientists, and cybersecurity experts, among others, will become the most desired profiles by companies, especially those with international reach. These careers represent the core of the digital transformation shaping the industry.

The most demanded careers and/or specialties in Engineering and Software Development for 2024:

  • Full Stack Development: This comprehensive career covers both the user interface (Front-End) and its business logic (Back-End), turning these professionals into versatile experts capable of creating complete technological solutions.
  • DevOps Engineering: This professional plays a crucial role in the integration and effective collaboration between development and operations teams within a technology organization. Their main goal is to facilitate the continuous and efficient delivery of software by automating processes, implementing agile development practices, and ensuring operational stability. This expert works on the creation and maintenance of deliveries, test and deployment automation, infrastructure management as code, and constant monitoring of system performance and availability.
  • Data Science: Data scientists use their skills in mathematics and analysis to extract meaningful insights from massive datasets, providing valuable information for decision-making.
  • Cybersecurity: In an increasingly interconnected digital world, cybersecurity experts play a crucial role in protecting systems and data against threats and malicious attacks.
  • Mobile App Development: Mobile app developers focus on creating applications for portable devices, leveraging the growing demand for solutions accessible from smartphones and tablets.

The current era facilitates these jobs from the comfort of home. The trend toward remote work, amplified by the recent Covid-19 pandemic, has led American companies to increasingly adopt a 100% virtual model, providing global opportunities for Argentine professionals.

This mode not only offers flexibility but also brings a series of benefits that impact beyond the personal and professional spheres. By allowing remote work, positive effects for the planet are generated. The significant reduction in daily commutes, for example, translates into a substantial decrease of CO2 emissions, contributing to environmental preservation. Additionally, the benefits include salaries in dollars and the opportunity to keep up with the latest trends in the market.

“At Mismo, we are dedicated to empowering Argentine professionals to conquer the international market with excellence and determination. Guided by a progressive vision, we seek to boost and closely accompany the professional development of our talents through specialized educational and growth programs. Beyond providing job opportunities, we take pride in promoting a sustainable work environment. We firmly believe that remote work adapts to the changing needs of the modern professional and also plays an active role in mitigating environmental impact by reducing the carbon footprint,” says Diego Gamboa, Chief Technology Officer of Mismo Software Consultancy, a company that remotely connects Latin American talent with opportunities in Silicon Valley and currently has available vacancies.

To excel in these careers, a combination of technical and soft skills are required. In addition to having a minimum B2 level of English according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), it is essential to exceed in effective communication, teamwork, and creative problem-solving skills. Adaptability to technological changes, a willingness to learn continuously, and the ability to translate complex technical concepts for non-technical audiences are crucial aspects. Awareness of cybersecurity, a commitment to ethical data management, and the ability to demonstrate resilience in the face of technical challenges complement the essential requirements.

Numerous platforms offer opportunities for those seeking to apply for jobs in these areas, such as mismo, where professionals can find vacancies, guidance, and support in their international job search.