What Executives Really Think About Hardcore Programmers
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Understanding Leadership Perspectives
As a dedicated programmer who might pride yourself on being a "10x" developer, you may spend long hours at the office, often extending your programming tasks even when you leave. While you might feel exceptional, your coworkers—especially those in leadership—are certainly forming opinions about you. Here’s what they really think:
You Are Seen as a Knowledge Risk
Your extensive knowledge is perceived as a liability. Leadership recognizes the importance of sharing this expertise within the team to mitigate the risk of losing you. This awareness could lead to opportunities for mentorship, which may feel like a burden rather than a benefit.
You May Be Undercompensated
If you believe that leadership is unaware of your below-market compensation, you may be mistaken. They realize that no salary will completely satisfy you, and they anticipate that you may eventually seek better opportunities elsewhere.
Colleagues Might Avoid You
Your serious demeanor could be leading to isolation. Colleagues may steer clear of you due to your critical attitude, and your lack of connections with others could be noted by leadership. If this becomes a significant issue, it may impact your role within the company.
They Admire Your Coding Skills
While leadership may be impressed by your coding prowess, they could also be concerned about your limited interactions with others. They might wonder if a team member with a more collaborative spirit would be a better fit.
Your Social Life Might Be Lacking
It's likely that you have few social connections, which allows for longer working hours. Leadership is aware of this dynamic and appreciates the productivity that comes from your lack of outside commitments.
You Are Resilient but Stagnant
Leadership views your determination in coding as a strength, but it might also confine you to technical roles without opportunities for growth in other areas, like people management.
You Prefer Your Own Way
Your reluctance to embrace others' ideas can slow down progress. Leadership might consider whether a less skilled programmer with a more adaptable attitude would be more beneficial to the team.
You Skip Social Gatherings
Even when the company organizes events, like an all-expenses-paid holiday party, you may choose to remain detached, which could impact your relationships with colleagues. Leadership might be concerned about your well-being, yet often overlook the issue.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while you may consider yourself a hardcore programmer, it's essential to recognize how your behavior and mindset could affect not only your career but also your relationships at work.
About the Author
The Secret Developer, a professional software developer, can be followed on Twitter @TheSDeveloper and frequently shares insights on Medium.com.
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