Do You *Really* Want a Rock Star Programmer? April 2, 2008
Posted by Todd in Articles.trackback
Dear Interweb Entrepreneur,
I’m writing to express interest in your ad for a “Rock Star” Programmer. I am interested in knowing whether you really want employees who think they are rock stars. And, if you do really want someone who thinks they are a rock star, isn’t it bad form to come straight out and tell them? Seems uncool to me.
I suggest that you really want a Master Craftsman, an artisan, a virtuoso. Perhaps you really want someone who has a commanding presence but is still approachable, someone with quiet confidence whom people respect, a teacher, and a wizard with code.
If that’s who you really want, don’t come right out and say so. Try a different approach. Present them with the opportunity to solve a fantastically intriguing and unique problem that they just can’t resist, and let them know that you will make it worth their while.
If you don’t have such a problem to solve maybe you just need a solid journeyman programmer, someone who has solved problems like yours many times in the past and does so consistently and confidently.
Or, maybe you really do need a rock star to add a little glow to your otherwise completely unremarkable product. I’m just saying maybe it’s a good strategy for you…really.
Sincerely,
Todd
Well said. Presenting a fascinating problem to solve w/ good compensation is what will attract the right type.
A rock star ad would signal to me a company that will expect unrealistic amounts of work and use unendurable managerial pep-talk cliches (usually followed by a sad excuse for a paycheck).