#274 - The Cost of Being Nice: Why Good Developers Don't Get Promoted

Develop Yourself

Have you ever wondered why some developers keep getting promoted while others stay stuck at the same level despite their technical skills?

The answer might surprise you.
Through practical, actionable steps, I break down exactly how developers at any level can strategically increase their influence and advance their careers.

You'll learn how to gain credibility before speaking up, frame concerns as questions rather than criticisms, and pair problem identification with solution proposals.

For junior developers and career changers, I offer specific guidance on leveraging your unique perspective and starting with low-risk moments of leadership.
The truth is that being universally liked feels safe, but being honest and solution-oriented makes you invaluable. Your career won't skyrocket by becoming infinitely better at your tech stack—it will accelerate when you thoughtfully challenge the status quo and offer solutions to problems others see but are afraid to address.

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Zubin's LinkedIn (ex-lawyer, former Googler, Brian-look-a-like)

Kapitel

1. Nice Developers Finish Middle (00:00:00)

2. The Project Timeline Reality Check (00:03:24)

3. How Speaking Up Changed My Career (00:05:27)

4. Practical Steps for Developer Growth (00:07:27)

5. Using Your Unique Perspective (00:13:14)

6. Choosing Courage Over Comfort (00:16:47)

7. Episode Closing (00:19:44)