From Software Engineer to Engineering Manager | Michael Doye | Beyond Coding Podcast #127

Office Dynamics

Michael Doye shares his experiences with the evolving dynamics of office work post-pandemic. While many companies, including his, are encouraging a return to the office, there is no strict policy enforcing it. Michael highlights the benefits of in-person interactions, such as spontaneous meetings that save time, but acknowledges the challenges for those who have adapted to remote work lifestyles 1. He notes, "I do see the value in being in the office, but I think for a lot of people it's kind of difficult because a lot of people changed their lifestyles completely."

I do see the value in being in the office, but I think for a lot of people it's kind of difficult because a lot of people changed their lifestyles completely.

--- Michael Doye

Patrick Akil adds that companies are trying to make the office more appealing through activities and social events, rather than enforcing attendance 2.

   

Policy Perspectives

The discussion shifts to workplace policies, particularly the strict time logging practices Michael encountered in South Africa. He recalls a rigid system where every task had to be timed, which was unpopular among employees 3. Michael contrasts this with the flexibility he enjoys in the Netherlands, where cultural norms often challenge nonsensical policies. "There's this thing, like, in Dutch, you call it chosen for stant, which is like, if it doesn't make sense, it doesn't make sense," Patrick explains.

There's this thing, like, in Dutch, you call it chosen for stant, which is like, if it doesn't make sense, it doesn't make sense.

--- Patrick Akil

This cultural perspective encourages employees to question and resist unreasonable demands, fostering a more open and transparent work environment 4.

   

Cultural Impact

Cultural differences significantly impact workplace policies and their acceptance. Michael notes that in South Africa, questioning authority could lead to disciplinary action, whereas in the Netherlands, it's more common to challenge policies that don't make sense 3. This cultural shift has influenced how remote work is perceived and managed. "If I did that in school in South Africa, I probably would have been sent straight to the principal's office," Michael reflects on the differences.

If I did that in school in South Africa, I probably would have been sent straight to the principal's office.

--- Michael Doye

Patrick and Michael discuss how the flexibility of remote work has become a norm, with many companies still offering hybrid models to accommodate employees' new lifestyles 2.