In my ten years as a software engineer, I’ve discovered a bizarre trend that smooth projects often get less recognition than chaotic ones. It may be due to a perception that it must have been an easy project if it was so smooth. On the other hand, projects with multiple day follows, dramatic reverts, etc get a ton more visibility. Have others seen this on their organization?
I keep blowing past my own estimates, and I'm trying to figure out if there's a way to get more accurate. Every time I think I've scoped something out, the actual work takes way longer than I planned. What's helped you close the gap between what you think something will take and how long it really ends up being?
I'm unsure how much it actually helps to list personal software projects when looking for a job. I've been a lead several times and did not receive any resume' with a link to a github/gitlab project. I will say I'm seeing requests for this in recent job searches. Anyone actually been asked about their projects?
Yes, you get rewarded for putting out fires, not for being smart enough not to create them in the first place. Squeaky wheel gets the grease.
It’s validating that you see the same behavior
Yeah, it's been like that pretty much everywhere I have been. Once the org reaches a certain size, leadership tends to only know who you are if they have to find out there's a problem and it turns out you're either the person who fixes the problem or you yourself are the problem. Especially true during the pandemic when chance encounters and polite chitchat in the hallway weren't happening.
It’s sad. Perhaps we have to make noise when there wasn’t any noise
Working sucks today in almost every industry. I miss the late 90s
I think also cost of living was lower, the economy was pretty strong, that positively influences job market too
Yes, I agree. If you’re very competent and manage well, then you’re not noticed as much. The sweat spot is to run part of a tough project well while others struggle. I did this early in my career and got promoted. A way around this is to blow your own horn by highlighting your contributions to management. It shows you’re competent without seeming arrogant.
Exactly, self reviews are so important to allow for tooting your own horn
growth comes through conflict, not complacency. thus, as long as the outcome is overall positive, a violent project earns your stripes more easily than a smooth one - you are a known deliverer through adversity.
It’s true in terms of anecdotes on challenges you’ve overcome