Jump Ship

People will always have their reasons for leaving a company. Sometimes, you could not care less and are quite happy to push them out door and wave goodbye, sarcastically from the car park. Yet, with certain special individuals, it is a major loss to see them depart for waters or in this case continents new. Of course, in any work place, you must keep some level of equilibrium and not have favourite employees / colleagues. Can I push my neck out and state, that they were one of the more approachable members of the development team? I've said it now. If it is politically incorrect, tough.

Something he said in his leaving speech, made me think. The first few months where a nightmare. I can agree with that, but like me, he had taken the decision to stay and it was worthwhile, in the end. Three years is perhaps an admirably length of service, particularly considering the constant changes in the bespoke software industry. Nothing ever stands still for long, particularly in the technology sector. Everyone must have a self-determined shelf life before they decide they need a new challenge, a change of scenery or just deal with something different instead of the same old issues, with the same old people. My personal opinion is always leave knowing that you made a noticeable difference of great benefit across the company and they are duly noted and appreciated. Was the work by my colleague seen in this light? Of course, not only this, but he got a big group of girls from the other side of the site to come over and wish him goodbye. Indeed, I would describe him nothing more than friendly, courteous, consistently helpful and always wearing a broad smile. He will be missed in our office, if not just for his work input but his entertaining and at times charming nature.

Booked my appraisal with my Manager for 15th February. This is the first official appraisal of my professional life. I will not include the appraisal I had in March 2003, back when I was on industrial placement, I am sure that was a walk in the park compared to some of the questions I will face next month. Preparation is the key to success, so expect me to providing as much documentary evidence to substantiate my case. Then again, should not my work on the helpdesk speak for itself along with the statistics and surveys? Personally I am looking forward to the opportunity to formally reflect on the last fourteen months and look toward the future.