Why I joined Chegg and why I’m still here after almost four years?
This is not a promo post but an honest look back, reflection and thoughts that I’d love to share with you.
Many companies in the high-tech industry spend quite a lot of energy and money trying to keep good employees around. From bonuses and free meals to work from home/remote, and what’s not.
Don’t get me wrong, those are good things. Engineers are not spoiled. We work hard, we overwhelmed with information, unclear requirements, lots of meetings and overall long hours at work. Having something fun to do to relax is actually important and highly appreciated. Will it keep good people around? Nope. Because most people, when they think about what keeps them at work, won’t say — “oh, the pool table at the office is why I’m here”. 😄
📌 What keeps people at the same company for years?
For some, it’s career opportunities. Maybe the technologies they are working with or working on. For others, it might be the sense of purpose and alignment with the company’s mission. For most, I believe, it’s the people they work with and the sense of “tribe”.
⚡ Cai Graham explains that the concept of finding your people emphasises the psychological comfort and support derived from being part of a group that shares common interests, values, and goals. This sense of belonging and acceptance is crucial for personal growth, self-esteem, and happiness.
📌 I joined because of the people who interviewed me at every stage of the process. It felt different. The people who interviewed me were smart and fun. They wanted me to succeed. They cared. The interviews were not easy, but every time, it felt like we were in it together.
At the time, I had no idea about Chegg. Chegg Israel wasn’t my first choice. I had a contract I was about to sign with another company. However, each interaction with recruiters, engineers and managers at Chegg caused me to postpone signing the contract with another company. It felt right.
📌 I stayed because of the people I work with.
No company is perfect. Nothing is ideal. Every company has weird policies and jerk employees. Chegg is not a small company. It has offices around the globe, which means that your day can start super early and stretch to the late evening. Chegg is not one of the FANG companies. Also not a new shiny startup. But...
Chegg Inc. value are — “We are student first, always. We dream big. We debate, decide, and do. We are transparent. We believe innovation is a way of life. We are one team.” Those are not just words on the wall. You can see it everywhere. A sentence “I’m not sure it’s student first” said by a junior engineer can and will cause a re-evaluation of a big initiative led by a director of product.
Anyone can talk to anyone, ask questions, share concerns and propose ideas. People listen. Regardless of their title.
It makes you feel valued and accepted.
You are part of that big “tribe”. You belong.
Why would you leave your tribe?
Time flies when you’re having fun and doing big things. Stay lifted. Keep banging🎈