How to Growth

Growing as a professional is not something that happens overnight. It requires working on multiple projects, dedicating many hours, and collaborating with others. Progress is achieved through learning and practice (i.e., experimentation, trial and error), and interaction with colleagues. While client projects are the primary space where software engineers can do all of this, growing at Minnek is achieved through more than just working on such projects. Software engineers can leverage numerous opportunities for their individual growth.

However, growing as an engineer is not limited to leveling up to the Seniority Levels but also requires leveraging the company environment and meeting the team’s expectations continuously and efficiently.

Steps to Progress

Software engineers often grapple with important questions:

• Should I invest my time in learning a new programming language?
• Should I focus on honing my code review and communication skills?
• What about the significance of soft skills?
• Is it beneficial to explore engineering management in the future?

These queries are commonplace because the route from being a junior software engineer to a senior, or even a lead role, isn't straightforward. However, at Minnek, we don't leave our engineering team members to navigate this complex terrain alone. Instead, we offer structured guidance through the Seniority Levels Guide, ensuring that they receive clear direction on their unique journey of professional growth.

Seniority Levels

Continuous Growing

Much like software products evolve through iterative development, a software engineer's growth is also a continuous journey marked by small, incremental steps. The pace of this growth can vary among individuals; some may progress more rapidly than others. However, there are no shortcuts or leaps to skip entire levels of development. Efficient growth for everyone is achieved by consistently building upon each preceding stage, emphasizing the importance of every step in the process.

Within the engineering team, this philosophy of continuous growth is deeply ingrained in our processes. Throughout the year, engineering leadership provides feedback and Performance Reviews to equip each team member with the necessary insights for ongoing improvement and planning. In return, we expect every software engineer to integrate the concept of continuous growth into their daily work, rather than treating it as a sporadic endeavor (e.g., only during New Year's resolutions). These efforts extend beyond client projects, as elaborated in the following section on avenues for growth.

Personal Motivation

While the team dynamics and established processes undoubtedly contribute significantly by providing tools, support, and a conducive environment for the growth of software developers, it's crucial to acknowledge that each individual bears the ultimate responsibility for their personal development.

TIP

The hard truth is that no one else can do it for them.

Whether it entails adapting one's workflow, acquiring new technical proficiencies, or actively seeking input from colleagues, each software developer is the steward of their own growth. Possessing a strong sense of personal drive is not just essential; it can, in fact, amplify the impact of the available environment and processes, expediting individual progress. Conversely, even the most impeccable environment and processes cannot miraculously enhance a software engineer's skills without their intrinsic determination.

TIP

Even the best coaches in the best sports teams cannot improve athletes if they do not do their part. Therefore, the personal drive in each individual is vital to leverage what the team offers.

Client Projects

Individual Objectives

Iniciatives

Certifications