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Director of Development at the Prague office of Wrike. An active speaker and Google expert, he actively participates in the organization of the HolyJS conference. Known as Dr. Cat.
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At the HolyJS conference, Evgeny Kot presented a unique talk that deviated from the traditional format. While other speakers focused on technical aspects, such as integrating Angular and React in a single project, his speech touched on broader topics that went beyond purely technical solutions. This created an interesting context for the discussion and attracted the attention of participants seeking a deeper understanding of the interaction of technologies and their impact on development.
This talk is not just a presentation of information, but a group reflection session dedicated to current issues in our industry. The goal is to identify and analyze the collective unconscious, which often remains hidden in the individual conscious. We strive for a deep understanding of the challenges facing our field through discussion and exposure of key focuses. This process not only helps us recognize current trends but also finds ways to overcome them and improve the situation as a whole.
We present to you a brief overview of the talk.
Run and Die
Today I want to discuss current issues in the IT field and express my opinion that the industry is facing serious difficulties. The challenges we face today may give the impression that IT is in crisis. This sounds paradoxical, especially when you imagine a situation where SpaceX's chief engineer, during preparations for a rocket launch, expresses doubts about its success. However, such conversations about IT problems are important for understanding the real challenges facing professionals in this field. It's important not only to point out shortcomings but also to find solutions to ensure sustainable technology development in the future.
The main problem lies in the perception of IT professionals. They are often approached with comical requests, such as, "You're an IT specialist, fix my iron." This stereotype creates a misconception about IT professionals and their competencies. IT specialists not only configure and repair equipment but also solve complex problems related to programming, software development, and data security. Eliminating bias and understanding the true role of IT professionals in modern society is an important step toward more effective interactions between specialists and users.
I propose a solution for renaming IT professionals. In the UK, there was a TV series called "The IT Crowd," which was renamed "IT Crowds" in the Czech Republic. We can use a similar approach and rename our IT specialists to make the name more attractive and memorable.
It's just a joke. Now let's move on to more serious issues.
Burnout is a pressing issue that has been discussed for many years. Despite the abundance of information and recommendations, such as visiting a therapist and developing mindfulness, many continue to face this problem. It's important to understand that burnout is not just a temporary difficulty, but a serious condition that requires attention and a comprehensive approach. It's important to consider the various factors that contribute to burnout and find effective ways to prevent and overcome it. Seeking professional help, developing healthy habits, and becoming more aware of your emotions can all help combat burnout and improve your quality of life.
My thesis is that even if you follow conventional practice, you will still experience burnout. This is because the entire industry is focused on constant pressure and high results. In this context, the acronym R&D can be interpreted not as "research and development," but as "run and die." This approach highlights the need to rethink work strategies and find sustainable solutions to maintain employee health and productivity.
I am studying to be a psychologist and do some consulting work. One young man approached me for advice: "I'm not feeling well—I have family problems, my sleep is disturbed, and I've developed tremors. Do you think I should switch from Java to machine learning?"
This question raises important issues, such as the impact of stressful situations on overall well-being and career decision-making. Switching to a new professional field can be a way to change the situation, but first, it is necessary to understand the causes of the current state. It is important to keep in mind that career changes do not always solve personal problems. It is recommended to consider working on psychological aspects to improve overall well-being and self-confidence.
Of course, this will effectively eliminate all the problems that have arisen Difficulties.
There are four main factors that make our lives and work difficult: business, the growth culture, technology, and engagement. Let's take a closer look at each of these aspects.
Business often imposes strict demands and standards on us, which can cause stress and pressure. The cult of growth strives for constant improvement in results, which sometimes leads to ignoring the importance of quality. Technology, although it facilitates many processes, can create excessive dependency and distract from core tasks. The engagement necessary for effective work is often insufficient due to overload and staffing issues.
Each of these factors requires careful analysis and understanding so that we can adapt and improve our productivity.
Business
A situation that many people face is when on a Friday evening a manager declares: "We urgently need to finalize the functionality over the weekend." This creates stress and pressure on the team, forcing them to work outside of working hours. This often leads to a decrease in the quality of work and employee burnout. To avoid such situations, it is important to plan tasks in advance and set realistic deadlines. Optimizing the workflow and clear communication between managers and developers will help prevent the need for emergency rework and maintain a balance between work and personal life.
You say that clients need this, right?
We often encounter a situation where at first it seems necessary, but as we come to understand it, we realize that this is not the case. Why does this happen? The reasons can be various: excessive emotionality when making decisions, the influence of the opinions of others, or a lack of information. It is important to realize that many things that seem important at the moment may not have real value. This awareness helps us make more rational choices and avoid unnecessary waste of time and resources. Understanding true needs allows us to focus on what is really important and avoid disappointment.
In the book "100+ Management Models", Henry Mintzberg analyzes working with the top management of large companies and expresses an idea that was paradoxical for its time. Previously, management was viewed as a process similar to driving a car: it is enough to read a few books, get an MBA and learn how to run a company, and then simply follow the established routes. Mintzberg, however, emphasizes that management requires a deeper understanding and flexibility than simply performing routine actions. This approach has changed the perception of management and opened new horizons for the study of management models.
Mintzberg emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach to management. He argues that successful management requires more than theoretical knowledge. It requires passion, experience, empathy, and a genuine desire to develop. In his conversations with dozens of top managers, he observed that many considered themselves great strategists, but in practice, they were more often engaged in ad hoc reactions to emerging problems. Instead of developing long-term plans, they were forced to constantly cope with current crises, which distracted them from strategic thinking and planning. This highlights the importance of a combination of skills, personal qualities, and practical experience for effective management.
Business can be compared to by train, but imagine a situation where trains are moving across a vast plain without tracks. They collide, explode, and the managers inside don't always understand which direction to take. Instead of firewood, they use programmers who must ensure the stable operation of the system. This metaphor reflects the chaos and uncertainty that companies face when there is no clear strategy and action plan. To successfully manage a business, it is necessary not only to know the goal but also to have a clear understanding of the path to it.
The MIF publishing house offers a selection of "20 powerful books on management," but only two of them take into account post-Soviet realities. This creates certain difficulties for readers seeking to apply their knowledge in the context of modern Russian business. The need for literature adapted to the specifics of the post-Soviet space remains relevant, as successful management requires an understanding of local conditions and peculiarities.
The information technology sector includes various segments, including government agencies, businesses, family businesses, and small outsourcing. However, many of these areas do not always correspond to the specifics of IT. Often, managers strive to emulate successful leaders like Elon Musk, but end up with an ineffective management approach that can be described as "possum management": chaotic behavior, constant yelling, and confusion. To achieve success in IT, it is important to apply systematic and thoughtful management methods adapted to the dynamic nature of this industry.
Every company strives to increase profits. During one of my interviews for the CTO position, I was told, "Our engineering team has complete freedom: no KPIs, no OKRs, do whatever you want." I decided to find out the reason for this freedom. It turned out that the company simply didn't have enough funds. This is a typical situation in business.
The Cult of Growth
You have a meeting with your boss and HR scheduled on your calendar. This meeting could be an important step in your career. Prepare to discuss your achievements, goals, and potential issues. Discussions with management and HR can help determine your next steps within the company, as well as clarify expectations and opportunities for development. Make sure you're prepared for a constructive dialogue to make the most of this opportunity.
Come to work, and you immediately hear: "Let's discuss your career development." If you ask your boss, "We have a lot of development opportunities. What's the purpose of them?" they might be surprised by your question. Clearly, growth is important for business: employees develop and improve productivity. But how does this benefit you?
Career development not only improves the company's performance but also opens new horizons for you. It provides the opportunity to develop professional skills, earn a higher salary, and increase your value in the labor market. Also, striving for growth helps you realize your ambitions and achieve personal goals.
It's important to understand that your growth is directly related to your contribution to the company and how actively you take advantage of the opportunities provided. So, it's worth asking yourself: how can you take initiative and direct your career in the right direction?
Google has a unique leveling system where, after reaching the L5 (Senior Developer) level, employees have the opportunity to independently manage their career growth. Managers cannot force employees to advance up the ladder, which allows employees to focus on professional development and achieving their own goals. This model creates a more comfortable working environment and increases employee motivation, as they can develop at their own pace and in their chosen area.
When you are forced to develop, it's important to ask yourself: "Why do I need this?" I'm not saying that growth is unimportant. However, it is important to distinguish between growth that occurs voluntarily and that which is imposed by the business. Understanding this difference will help you better navigate your goals and aspirations, as well as make more informed decisions in your career and life.
Technology
Great science fiction writers have predicted the coming of the technological singularity—a moment when the speed and complexity of technological progress will reach such levels that the human mind will struggle to comprehend them. This concept implies not only a dramatic increase in computing power but also fundamental changes in society, the economy, and even human nature itself. The singularity could lead to the creation of artificial intelligence capable of self-development, raising questions about the future of humanity and its role in the world of high technology. The process of reaching this singularity has already begun, and its consequences can be both positive and negative.
The world of technology is constantly changing, and many developers face difficulties When switching between different programming languages and frameworks. For example, a friend of mine who transitioned into machine learning decided to return to JavaScript development after six years and encountered problems understanding the changes in the ecosystem. One of the most discussed topics in JavaScript development remains the issue with the node_modules folder. This is a well-known headache for many programmers, and despite numerous discussions, a universal solution has yet to be found.
The problem, it seems, is not just related to programming. The question arises: who came up with the idea to create a mouse that charges in exactly this way?
At a time when front-end development was limited to knowledge of HTML and CSS, These skills were once quite sufficient. However, in today's technological world, demands have increased significantly, requiring developers to possess a broader range of knowledge. In practice, this means that even with years of experience in one programming language, you may encounter new challenges. For example, in job postings for mid-level Java developers, employers today expect not only basic knowledge of the language but also skills in working with modern frameworks, libraries, and development tools. This includes an understanding of API principles, experience with version control systems, and knowledge of testing and code optimization. Technological advancements require constant learning and adaptation to remain competitive in the labor market.
The market demands flexibility and the ability to adapt to change. It's impossible to remain at the same level of knowledge and skills indefinitely. You must constantly analyze current trends and develop your competencies to meet the demands of the times.
Across the endless plains of the business landscape, trains rush, carrying developers striving for constant growth. Their wheels, symbolizing innovation and change, are always new. This analogy emphasizes the need for continuous development in technology and business. Developers, like hamsters in a wheel, must adapt to rapidly changing conditions to remain competitive and reach new heights.
Engagement
I visited job boards again. Please pay attention to the following offers:
The job market demands not only growth and development, but also active engagement. Companies are looking for motivated employees who can make a meaningful contribution to the team. If you want to find the right position, pay attention to job postings that emphasize motivation and engagement. Use the keyword "motivated" when searching for positions to find positions that align with your goals and ambitions.
If you approach your manager and say, "I'm not very motivated to work, but I'll do my job and code," your manager will likely react negatively. They may be surprised by your lack of motivation and wonder how you can complete tasks without enthusiasm. It's important to understand that motivation plays a key role in productivity and work quality. Without an internal incentive, work becomes routine, and results may fall short of expectations. Therefore, it's worth looking for ways to increase your motivation and engagement in the work process.
In the 1960s, psychologist Julian Rotter introduced the concept of "locus of control," which is divided into internal and external. Individuals with an internal locus of control tend to take responsibility for their failures and problems, attributing them to their own actions and decisions. In contrast, people with an external locus of control are more likely to shift blame to external circumstances, believing that events occur regardless of their efforts. Understanding these types of locus of control can significantly impact your approach to life and problem-solving, as well as personal development and self-awareness.
The problem lies not only in locus of control. Even if you are confident in your abilities, aware of your strengths and weaknesses, and able to separate your professional life and personal relationships, you will still face certain difficulties. These difficulties can manifest in various forms, including pressure in the workplace, difficult interpersonal relationships, and the need to adapt to a rapidly changing environment. It's important to understand that self-confidence and self-awareness don't always guarantee a lack of problems. Everyone, regardless of their level of self-awareness, can face challenges that require attention and solutions.
- one-on-one meetings where they will tell you what you are like;
- code reviews, where again they will tell you not so much about the code you have written, but about you;
- performance reviews, where they will tell you again whether you are a good or a bad person (and not an employee).
Each of us, returning home after completing an unsuccessful or unfinished task, is unlikely to say: "Well, okay, maybe I'm a bad programmer, but at least I'm a good person." Most likely, no one will voice such a statement. We are so closely associated with our profession that criticism of our programming skills can cause us great disappointment. Professional identity becomes an integral part of our lives, and negative feedback about our work is perceived as a personal failure.
Frustration begins to mount. Interestingly, there is a test for Rosenzweig frustration reactions. This test presents various images, and participants are asked to describe their thoughts and feelings about each one. Participants can earn extra points if they avoid using foul language. This approach allows for a deeper understanding of emotional reactions to stressful situations and the identification of specific perceptions.
The test helps determine your ability to cope with Frustration and how to overcome it. This tool assesses how you react to stressful situations and what strategies you use to solve problems. The test results can provide valuable recommendations for improving your emotional regulation and coping skills. By identifying your strengths and weaknesses, you can more effectively cope with frustration and achieve your goals.
What's the Bottom Line?
Lamarck argued that evolution represents a striving for perfection. In contrast, Darwin emphasized that survival depends on adaptability, and those organisms that cannot adapt to changes in the environment will disappear. These two theories emphasize different aspects of the evolutionary process: Lamarck's striving for improvement and Darwin's natural selection. It's important to understand that evolution is a complex process in which adaptation and variability play key roles in the survival of species.
In today's world, businesses face a highly competitive environment where survival requires constant renewal and adaptation. Companies strive for profit while keeping pace with rapidly evolving technologies. To stay afloat, it's necessary not only to adapt to change but also to offer unique solutions that set the business apart from the competition. In such an environment, it's crucial not only to remain relevant but also to actively seek out new opportunities for growth and development.
What is R&D? It's not just "developers and money." In 2021, the average salary in IT reached around 150,000 rubles, while the average salary in Russia in 2020 was approximately 50,000 rubles. However, if you follow discussions on Twitter, you've probably encountered opinions like, "400,000 rubles in Moscow isn't that much; who can even live on that?" R&D, or research and development, plays a key role in the development of technology and innovation, underscoring the importance of this field for the economy and the labor market.
Maxim Shulga noted that the most unexpected question in interviews is: "How will you motivate people who don't want to work? They just want to get paid." In response, I would ask: "What's wrong with that? Does getting paid interfere with motivation?"
Despite the fact that many prefer to avoid the pursuit of money, in most industries the level of earnings is significantly lower. Working in such an environment is very demanding, and there is a risk of professional burnout. How to cope with this situation? It is important to find a balance between career ambitions and personal well-being. You need to learn to manage your time, set priorities, and take care of your health. Consider acquiring new skills that can help you not only increase your income but also maintain interest in work. Focus on your development, seek opportunities for rest and recovery to avoid burnout and maintain motivation.
In the IT industry, there is no unified union for IT professionals that could regulate working conditions and protect workers' rights. No one will announce new rules that will ease the workload. However, each of us can start with ourselves and thereby contribute to the formation of a healthier work culture. Developing a mindful approach to work and supporting each other in the team will help reduce stress levels and prevent burnout. It is important to join forces to create a comfortable and productive environment in the IT field.
Ask yourself:
- Have I reached the "valley"? The valley is when everything is fine with my career, but there is still money and energy left for what you enjoy. Life is not only work.
- Where is business going? If everyone around is running and shouting, then why should you run and shout?
- Do I need to know this? There are a lot of technologies. One day, I had over a thousand articles on my "Read Later" list, and I realized it was time to slow down. Your brain, time, and energy are very precious resources. Sometimes you can put down reading and just relax a little. Just don't lie in front of your smartphone - even if you think you're relaxing by watching cat videos, your nervous system is still tense.
- When do I leave work? Not in the sense of going home for dinner, but in general. I once arrived in Mexico and got lost. An old Mexican man was sitting by the road. He asked me, "Who are you?" I said, "A programmer." And he smiled and replied, "And I'm Juan." So, be more than just programmers!
Stay true to yourself and strive for happiness. Maintain your individuality, follow your beliefs, and enjoy life. Happiness comes when you accept yourself, your strengths and weaknesses. Don't be afraid to be unique, because that's what makes you special. Remember that every moment spent in harmony with yourself brings you closer to true happiness.
Read also:
- Katya Petrova: "Good conferences are organized not only by people with serious faces"
- Phil Ranzhin: "I have two jobs, so I don't burn out"
- What is JavaScript and why do you need it?
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