Lack of Leadership and Recognition: Leadership was disconnected from contributions, with rewards often going to those involved in office politics, leaving high performers overlooked.
Work-Life Balance: There was minimal work-life balance, with frequent weekend work and expectations to handle last-minute requests, creating stress.
Service-Oriented Product Direction: The company operated like a service firm, constantly shifting to meet client demands. Developers delivered rushed features with little input on feasibility, destabilizing the product and sidelining long-term vision.
Management Competence: My manager lacked insight into the product and sprint planning, requiring me to guide them, making management feel like a burden rather than a source of direction.
Growth and Favoritism: Promotions favored those who flattered managers over performers, creating unfairness and diminishing motivation, as advancement depended on relationships, not merit.
Accountability Issues: Management failed to follow through on compensation promises, leading to frustration and demotivation, with hard work going unrewarded.