Every single software engineering job posting I read expects responsibility. Almost none offer unlimited PTO or at least non-8h workday. And I don't get it, because the two are closely related.
We aren't a factory workers. Our work is creative (as we create things). Creativity cannot be pushed, cannot be forced, and cannot be timed. It can be encouraged, either by moving your body, focus times, exposing yourself to new experiences, or many other means. But it definitely doesn't obey to working hours.
Sometimes I need to sleep on the problem. There is no point in waiting till 5pm, I won't move by an inch.
Sometimes I need to solve my family problems before I can fully focus on the task at hand.
Other times, after finishing stressful project, I need 2 weeks off. Even in December when PTO is used already.
And sometimes I take 💩 to work for a nice 30min break nobody complains about.
You get the point.
Let's focus on the outcomes instead of outputs.
Solve communication problems. Eradicate waterfall effects. Encourage collaboration. Promote knowledge sharing. Foster trust.
And give freedom to the employees. 🙏
Except for one instance. Unlimited PTO needs to be accompanied with a minimum!
If you must, compare their performance, talk to managers from other companies to get the benchmark. But this is rarely needed when trust is living inside the company.
You had enough courage to offer flexible working hours? Remote jobs? Great! Next stop - unlimited PTO. That's what Freedom & responsibility ultimately means:
I trust you can do this, do it your own way.
And for the sake of your own success, apply the same to freelancers - do not charge them by the hour. 📅
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