REWORK Managing vs. Mentoring
61 snips
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.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Early Management at 37signals
- 37signals initially had no managers, with everyone reporting to Jason Fried or David Heinemeier Hansson.
- As the company grew, some programmers like Jeffrey Hardy became unofficial then official team leads.
Management Experiment
- 37signals experimented with traditional management roles, but ultimately reverted to a mentorship model.
- This was driven by a desire for individual contribution and minimal overhead.
Mentorship Focus
- Mentorship at 37signals focuses on teaching values and decision-making skills, not just technical skills.
- The goal is to empower individuals to make decisions aligned with company values, similar to parenting.