In keeping with tradition, my employer organized a New Year reception tonight. As usual, there was a speech.
Like last year, it was excruciatingly boring. And he still can’t pronounce Belgium properly – sounds like Belgeen – probably nobody dares telling him. The man rambled on and on about percentages of growth, across sectors, across geographical areas. Top 15 customer. New customers. How sustained growth was necessary on all fronts .
And then it dawned on me: this is what this guy does ! It’s his whole universe ! Other CEO’s may be better at packaging those number in spiritual quotes and inspiring visions. But basically, as a big company CEO, you push and prod numbers. Always more. A little green arrow next to that market share.
And if you don’t get those plus signs, you’re doomed. Your reputation starts to sink. As a matter of fact, hordes of fresh-faced obsessive-compulsives in expensive suits surround you, waiting for that space to vacate.
These may well be the most powerful men on this planet for now, but in this sense they are the most limited. There’s only one way they can go, and that’s cash-upwards.
This is a vision that manages to be both boring and scary at the same time.
(wee soundtrack to that)
And _that_ is why I will _never_ allow myself to be promoted to any kind of management position. I like writing software. So getting rich takes a little longer, at least I can spend (many) of my days doing exciting things.
Of course, in its way, software is a bit like prodding numbers too. At least the numbers are infinitely flexible binary though. And they can go up, down, sideways, strange, charm, sex-appeal and peppermint!
Amen to that
I like to believe writing software is more free than managing a large corporation. There’s more directions you can go.
but obviously there may be many degrees (of freedom?) between software developer and top CEO.
..which is why I never want to work for a large company.
His problem is about putting things in another one’s perspective. Sooo few people can do that.
Consulting for small businesses seems to give you a broader perspective. At least that’s my subjective impression.
Writing software is exciting… true.
But managing a group of people and to see them (or the company) grow… can be very exciting too!
What group is this again ?
(The music)
Foo Fighters – number = The Pretender