• Performance management for engineers is often viewed as a necessary but burdensome task, with many engineers preferring to focus on coding rather than engaging in performance reviews and career management. However, Anton Kazakov, Engineering Director at Canonical, offers a refreshing perspective that redefines performance management as an exciting and valuable process. During his talk at the Shift Conference, Kazakov addressed the common disdain engineers have for performance management, suggesting that it can be transformed into a meaningful growth opportunity. Kazakov introduced a Performance and Career Management Framework designed specifically for engineers and engineering leaders. This framework aims to integrate performance evaluation with career development, making the process more relevant and beneficial. By establishing clear expectations, the framework emphasizes the importance of setting performance metrics that align with engineers' career aspirations. This clarity helps engineers understand how their current performance can influence future opportunities. Regular feedback is another critical component of Kazakov's framework. Continuous check-ins are encouraged to ensure that engineers remain aligned with their career objectives and can address any performance issues promptly. This ongoing dialogue fosters personal and professional growth, making performance management a collaborative effort rather than a one-sided evaluation. Moreover, Kazakov's framework integrates career development with performance evaluation, allowing engineers to connect their daily tasks with long-term career goals. This integration enhances the impact of performance reviews, as engineers can see the direct relevance of their work to their career trajectories. The framework also promotes flexibility and adaptation, recognizing that both career goals and industry demands can evolve over time. By adjusting the performance management process to accommodate these changes, engineers can stay aligned with their professional growth. Ultimately, Kazakov's approach seeks to shift the perception of performance management from a bureaucratic formality to a valuable tool for growth. By making performance evaluation a part of career development, engineers become more invested in their performance and future career plans, fostering a culture that views performance management as an opportunity for advancement rather than a chore.