Friday, January 12, 2007

Did you forget to sell yourself?

I started blogging with the intention to blog ONLY technical and technology related stuff and had always desisted from publishing "sensitive" content. But this time, I couldn't resist my frustration and out it comes.

I guess, it is the time of year end appraisal in most of the companies..oops, Software companies. Put in other words, it is the time for "Shameless bit of Self-Promotion". I have been observing my colleagues for a month and there is a dramactic change in their behaviors. Everyone is aware of the famous "recency effect". It is also interesting to watch how everyone is bent on blowing their trumpets. One of my colleagues rephrased it and called it "Way of advancing in career". I feel like pursuing a course in behavioral science ;-)

This is also the time the managers have to walk on a tight rope balancing the hikes against the performance of the individuals without losing valued employees. A really tough job!

A word to fellow developers - in pursuit of technical nirvana, do not neglect the "Way of advancing in career".

*** UPDATE ***
Honest way of selling yourself - here are a few headers suggested by my friends
1. Delivery of the Work Item - Explain how the work item is delivered on time, on budget,...
2. Quality of the Work Item - Elaborate on how technology has been leveraged for business and dexterity in applying the technology
3. Flagship work done - Enlist any flagship work you are proud of
4. Demonstrated Leadership - Applicable if only in a leader role. Mentoring of team members.
5. Overall contribution to the project/product release.

Some companies do insist that it is the responsibity of the individual to look into other projects and provide them techcnical direction, even though people from other projects don't approach you for help. Doesn't it sound funny? Well, it isn't this is called "Way of advancing in career" LOL