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hmaxwell | 2 years ago

I work at a 30 person company in a partitioned office designed for four people, including the CEO, a graphic designer, and a secretary. My role involves focused programming tasks, which are frequently disrupted by the office dynamics.

When the CEO is away, the graphic designer and secretary frequently engage in loud, casual conversations, discussing everything from personal matters to home decor, like curtain colors. They also have a habit of yelling over the office partitions, adding to the disruption. Despite using noise-cancelling headphones, these distractions, including both the conversations and the yelling, consistently hinder my concentration.

Interestingly, the secretary has expressed concern about the perceived level of activity in the office, especially when the CEO is present. The secretary has mentioned to both me and the graphic designer that there might not be enough typing noises, suggesting a worry that the CEO might not think everyone is working hard. This concern about appearances adds another layer to the already challenging office environment.

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Loughla|2 years ago

>This concern about appearances adds another layer to the already challenging office environment.

This sentence sums up the biggest headache of my professional career.

I have never worried about appearances, but instead focused on doing good work.

To my detriment. I know I've missed out on key assignments and at least one promotion at my current employer because I don't sell myself or focus on perception management.

I guess what I'm saying is, this exists everywhere, in every field of work.

joshjje|2 years ago

Thats one reason I prefer small companies. Less bureaucratic BS, more accountability, etc. Sure there isn't as much room for career growth and other downsides, but much simpler.

serf|2 years ago

>This concern about appearances adds another layer to the already challenging office environment.

I sympathize, but I haven't yet had the pleasure of working with other people without the existence of those kind of friction layers.

At my age I just assume now that it's just part of the human condition -- but maybe it's just me.