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REWORK
Managing vs. Mentoring
Feb 12, 2025
Jeffrey Hardy, Principal Programmer at 37signals with 17 years of experience, shares insights on the company's unique approach to mentorship over traditional management. He explains how the shift to a peer-to-peer mentorship model enhances team productivity and aligns new hires with company values. The discussion covers the importance of hiring self-directed individuals and the power of mentorship in cultivating entrepreneurial skills. Hardy also shares tips on effective mentoring practices that foster independence and collaboration among programmers.
24:30
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Quick takeaways
- 37signals has replaced traditional management with peer-to-peer mentorship, allowing for greater autonomy and shared values among team members.
- Effective hiring practices prioritize candidates with entrepreneurial experience and shared values, facilitating the company's mentorship-driven culture.
Deep dives
The Evolution from Management to Mentorship
The transition from management to mentorship is a key theme, reflecting the company’s unique approach to team organization. Initially, with a small team, there was minimal need for traditional management, as employees were seen as capable of managing themselves. As the company grew, they experimented with having managers, believing this structure might improve efficiency. Ultimately, they returned to a mentorship model, where experienced programmers guide less experienced ones, promoting a culture of shared values and decision-making without needing formal management roles.
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