Zain
1.3K posts
@zain_ux
Product designer ⏤ open for projects ✧ Framer Expert
In my 10 years in tech, I’ve never been promoted. I started as a manual tester with no coding skills, moved into automation testing, and now work as a full-stack developer. Along the way, I changed companies, cities, and even countries. Yet, not once have I heard my manager say, "You’ve been promoted." At times, it makes me feel sad. But deep down, I’ve realized I might not be the most promotable person. I spend most of my spare time building my own products, which conveniently serves as my excuse. The truth is, promotions aren’t about hard work alone. They’re more about understanding the unwritten rules, building connections with the right people, and navigating office politics. To succeed in that game, I’d have to pretend I enjoy playing it—and that’s just not me. Maybe I’m still too idealistic or even a bit childish. Who knows? Maybe I’ll change my mind someday. But if you ever notice I’ve stopped tweeting, that’s the sign I’ve surrendered to corporate life. ☠️
