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Discussion on:
Techies 'more unhappy than hairdressers'

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Feedback and self worth
roberto_maietta@... 7th Aug 2007
I thin part of the problem is that IT is so broad, that managers can come from different disciplines, and they may not understand exactly what is being achieved in an area different from their own background.

Another thing about IT compared with other professions, is that its a very black and white profession. When users click their application, it either works or it doesnt. When users try to login remotely after having their new vpn client installed, they either can or they cant. When an upgrade is done to the new file server, they can either access their old files or they cant. And when a new print driver is installed, they can either get their documents or they cant.

Many other professions and trades have a large element of grey that their proponents can hide behind, and the feedback mechanism isnt anywhere near as sharp.

I think that techies have a hard time generally because their subject matter is under so much more scrutiny, simply because of the feedback mechanism.

I'm now in a senior managerial role. I deal with techies every day, and I know noone is perfect. I try to provide some latitude, but there are very often issues that techies bring with them to the workplace that they need to resolve themselves.

I also think that the workplace is changing, and people need to take more reponsibility for their own careers. I you really want that certification, then go and get it. I did it many times in the past with no assistance from my employers, and I'm very happy with where I've wound up so far.

If you are proactive about your career, then you will feel more in control, and will feel as though where you are is a result of your own actions, rather than being where the ebb and flow of the company takes you.

It doesnt always work out, but I'd rather have as much control over my career as possible.
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