I still remember my early days as a senior engineer. The job was laid-back, and the expectations were straightforward. But things took a drastic turn when I joined Amazon. The workload wasn’t particularly challenging, but the pressure was immense. Managers were quick to criticize, and senior engineers seemed to be on edge, not open to feedback. I thought it was just an Amazon thing.
But after leaving Amazon and taking up two more jobs, I’ve come to realize that the standards have become either absurdly high or overly political. It’s not uncommon to be asked to deliver a complete app in just two days or navigate office politics with little actual work involved.
So, I have to ask: is this a trend across the industry, or am I just experiencing a streak of bad luck?
## The High-Pressure Environment
Senior level jobs are supposed to be about leadership, strategy, and mentorship. But the reality is often far from it. With the rise of agile development and rapid deployment, the pressure to deliver has increased exponentially. And it’s not just about meeting deadlines; it’s about dealing with the constant scrutiny and criticism from managers and peers.
## The Rise of Office Politics
In today’s corporate world, office politics plays a significant role in determining success. Senior engineers are often expected to navigate complex webs of relationships, alliances, and rivalries to get things done. And if you’re not good at playing the game, you’re likely to be left behind.
## Is This the New Normal?
I’m not sure if I’m just experiencing a bout of bad luck or if the landscape of senior level jobs has indeed changed. But one thing’s for certain – the job expectations, the pressure, and the politics have all become more intense.
If you’re a senior engineer or someone aspiring to be one, I’d love to hear your thoughts. Have you experienced similar challenges in your career? Share your stories in the comments below.
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