Software Developers: The Overlooked Heroes

Despite the dedication you put into your work, the likelihood of receiving recognition is often minimal.

The software operated on AS/400 systems, characterized by a stark black interface with bright text and lacking mouse functionality.

While there was a method to export data, the quality was poor. The product descriptions lacked consistency, making it challenging to import into the new website. As I collected additional requirements, the team kept suggesting features they wished to have. After spending two weeks cleaning the data, I dedicated several months to developing their desired online application.

Initially, the website was meant to function as a catalog, allowing customers to log in and browse products. It soon evolved into a comprehensive e-commerce platform, complete with live inventory for ordering and an API for customer integration—all while they continued to use their outdated POS system. As a sole developer, I invested an inordinate amount of time into the project, balancing front-end development, graphic design, back-end work, and data entry. I often found myself working an extra 4 to 6 hours after my regular shift.

After two years and with the application generating substantial revenue, my boss invited me out for lunch. It was an unusual occurrence, as he rarely took anyone out other than his partners. We went to a burger restaurant, and I was surprised to be sharing drinks with my boss.

During our meal, he expressed deep gratitude for my contributions. Just the week prior, he had reviewed the company's year-end results and was astonished by the growth—from $12 million to $18 million in sales. He attributed this success solely to my hiring. “After discussions with the sales team, they noted an influx of positive feedback about the website and its impact on their sales,” he said.

As he elaborated on my role in the company’s achievements, I couldn't help but anticipate a significant bonus. However, as the meal concluded, the waiter presented two checks without any further comments from my boss. A few moments later, as I reached for my credit card, he insisted, “No worries, I’ll cover this.” We then returned to the office, and I was left in disbelief. I thought surely there would be some form of recognition for my efforts.

The following day, I struggled to focus at work, anxious about what my boss might reveal. A few hours later, he approached me with a smile and asked, “How did you enjoy that burger yesterday? It was delicious, right?” I responded affirmatively, but that was the last I heard from him that day.

Feeling disheartened, I couldn't reconcile the idea that my boss would take me out to lunch, praise my contributions, and not offer any financial reward. My hopes rested on payday, believing it would bring the recognition I felt I had earned.

When payday arrived, I sat at my desk, eagerly awaiting my paycheck. My boss entered with a familiar phrase, “Thanks for all you do,” as he handed me my check. Excited, I opened the envelope, only to find the same amount I had always received. A few moments later, he casually remarked, “That burger was fantastic. We should go back sometime.”

Throughout the week, he repeatedly referenced that lunch, and while my work ethic remained unchanged, my enthusiasm waned. I stopped putting in extra hours and ceased proposing new ideas, even as the company continued to thrive.

Years later, as I moved on to different opportunities, that experience remained etched in my memory. The lesson? Never accept a free lunch, as it may come with strings attached. And yes, here’s your burger.

Dino Cajic is currently the Head of IT at LSBio (LifeSpan BioSciences, Inc.), Absolute Antibody, Kerafast, Everest BioTech, Nordic MUbio, and Exalpha. He also holds the position of CEO at MyAutoSystem. With over a decade of experience in software engineering, he possesses a B.S. in Computer Science and a minor in Biology. His expertise encompasses the development of enterprise-level e-commerce applications, research-based software projects, and knowledge dissemination through writing.

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