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0 pointscaliforniaguy216y ago0 comments

I wasn't trying to be cool, I was answering his question in a straight forward and honest manner. Other people seem to be more interested in trying to blow smoke up his ass talking about interesting problem domains and how money doesn't matter.

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4 comments · 2 top-level

astrec16y ago· 2 in thread

I was actually replying to you, not him, with an observation drawn from my experience employing a great many programmers of differing ability, including perhaps half a dozen great programmers.

In terms of great programmers, money is often subordinate to a great many other things, hence adjunct. Note I didn't say money doesn't matter.

Let me illustrate by paraphrasing the conversations I have on occasion.

  Ordinary Programmer: I'm quitting.
  Me: Why?
  OP: I can get $15k more at X.
  Me: Will you stay if I match it?
  OP: Yes.

  Great Programmer: I'm quitting.
  Me: Why?
  GP: I've got a great opportunity to work over at X with Y  doing Z.
  Me: Look, I can't afford to lose you: If it's a matter of money I'll match it. 
  Me: Perhaps we can see how Z might work for us....
  GP: Actually I'm pretty keen on working with Y. 
  GP: It's not about the money, believe it or not I'm taking a bit of a cut.
  Me: I see. Is there anything I can do to make you stay?
  GP: Nope. Hey, once I'm settled in you should come and meet Y.

steverb16y ago

In my experience Option B above only occurs when leaving a lousy work place. I've done the same thing twice.

But after about 2 years of not making money at the "great place to work" I end up having to move on to something that is also interesting, but actually pays.

But then again, I never accept a counter offer. If I was worth 15k more to you, then why the hell weren't you paying that to start with? That just shows a lack of respect.

btilly16y ago

Absolutely don't accept counter offers. The main reason they are offered is so that the company can have you leave on their schedule, not yours. Even if this isn't their agenda, you've created a poisoned atmosphere which will make something you're unhappy with be even worse.

tsally16y ago

I've never seen someone answer a question well while calling the asker a "fucking idiot". Something to keep in mind if you want to answer more questions.

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