Journal turgid's Journal: Stuff Happens 4
It was appraisal week last week. We have a smallish company and the boss is a computer geek. Now, us geeks have no empathy with out fellow human being and poor social skills. At least he isn't smelly.
It's not just me who felt uneasy. Through a subtle sarcastic comment, I discovered someone else had such an unhappy review that he got straight on the phone to an employment agency. This morning, another guy asked me if he could "talk to me" and poured his heart out.
It's a funny old world, and I gave them both the same advice. I've developed a thick skin over the last three years, and I explained why.
Computer geeks, as I said, are not "people people" and therefore find it difficult to relate to their fellow human beings, so tactfulness is completely out of the question. It can be very hurtful, but try to contain it in the short term, and look at it philosphically.
Appraisals or performance reviews are just a game and you will never "win" since you are at their mercy. All you can do is assert your position and back it up with facts, tactfully and politely, and when it's obvious they're not listening or don't want to alter thier assessment, graciously accept the situation.
Above all, do not fall prey to the mindset that it's impossible to find a new job. The Company knows full well that you are a resource to be exploited. If they are wise, they will reward you, financially, with interesting work and opportunities for you to develop.
It's a fine balance. Make sure you keep a note of what you've achieved, and if you feel uneasy, start looking outside the company soon, so that if things get really bad you have an escape route.
Oh, and don't burn your bridges. Know where you stand, but know your worth. Think about what you want.
It is so tempting to vent your spleen, but, so it goes that one of my predecessors did just that and was shown the door straight away.
It really is a big game. He who keeps a calm composure and straight face longest, wins.
...or at least lives to fight another day.
Hmm... (Score:2)
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What?
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He's a very special little froggy [all-about-...shui.co.uk].